Crossover SUVs have evolved into the most popular vehicle platform on Canadian roads today. Ford has several models in this broad segment, but its Escape SUV is among the most sought after by customers at Southlake Ford. A comparison between the 2025 Ford Escape PHEV vs. 2025 Kia Niro PHEV is more than a look at two well-regarded SUVs; this comparison also profiles two hybrid technologies. The 2025 Escape PHEV delivers several advantages over its Kia rival, including better power output, more legroom and more available cargo volume. Follow along with us while we take a closer look at these incredible platforms.
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| 2025 Ford Escape PHEV | 2025 Kia Niro PHEV | |
| Engine | 2.5-L, 4-Cyl. Hybrid | 1.6-L, 4-Cyl. Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 210 | 180 |
| Fuel Economy (L/100 km) | 5.5 (city) / 6.4 (hwy) | 4.4 (city) / 4.4 (hwy) |
| F/R Legroom (mm) | 1,077 / 989 | 1,054 / 1,010 |
| Max. Cargo Volume (L) | 1,722 | 1,546 |
Performance
Efficient Output
While both SUVs feature their respective automaker’s hybrid technology, the 2025 Ford Escape PHEV is able to produce more output with its naturally aspirated 2.5-litre, four-cylinder engine, making 210 horsepower. Buyers choosing the Niro PHEV will get a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder engine topping out at 180 horsepower.
Fuel Economy
Even though the two hybrid SUVs have disparate performance outputs, the fuel economy scores are relatively evenly matched. The 2025 Ford Escape PHEV will return 5.5 L/100 km in the city and 6.4 L/100 km on the highway. Kia Niro PHEV owners will give 4.4 L/100 km in the city and highway, though that efficiency comes at a cost in performance.
Design
Passenger-Friendly Interior
Both hybrid SUVs feature two rows of seats, each capable of accommodating up to five passengers. Ford has made more front and rear legroom available in the hybrid version of the 2025 Escape compared to the Niro, delivering 1,077 millimetres for front passengers and 989 mm for rear passengers. The Kia hybrid SUV comes up short of these marks for the most part.
Cargo Volume
The larger dimensions offered by the 2025 Ford Escape PHEV are for more than just making passengers comfortable. When the rear seat of the 2025 Escape PHEV is folded away, there will still be more than 1,720 litres of cargo volume. At most, the current Kia Niro PHEV makes a little more than 1,500 litres of cargo volume available.
Technology
Wireless Connectivity
Most of us rely on our mobile devices for a lot of things. Both plug-in hybrid SUVs have standard access to the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto suites of applications. However, Ford takes connectivity an extra step by making wireless access to the popular smartphone apps standard, in addition to its available Wi-Fi hotspot and Amazon Alexa compatibility.
Safety
Both manufacturers have developed advanced safety systems to protect drivers and passengers. However, the Ford Co-Pilot360® system offers a few additional sensors not found in other competing versions. Additionally, the 2025 Escape PHEV has a 360° camera view that can show the area around the vehicle at speeds below 9 km/h.
Verdict: Escape PHEV vs. Niro PHEV
No matter how you slice it, the 2025 Ford Escape PHEV has more to offer than its Kia Niro PHEV competitor. Escape PHEV owners have more available legroom and cargo volume. It offers more power output than the Kia Niro as well as remaining more than competitive in terms of fuel economy.
Now is an excellent time to visit the Southlake Ford showroom to take a closer look at the 2025 Ford Escape PHEV. Make an appointment with one of our product experts today to start the pre-ordering process or go for a personalized test drive. When you complete the sales paperwork with our team, don’t forget to stop by the Southlake Ford Service Department to schedule your new SUV’s first round of recommended maintenance.