Compact crossover SUVs are among the most popular classes of vehicles in North America. A comparison of the 2025 Ford Escape vs. 2025 Jeep Cherokee reveals that these platforms are interchangeable. The comfortable and adaptable Escape has been praised for its spacious interior. Not coincidentally, that is one of the areas where the current Ford SUV holds a noticeable advantage over its Jeep Cherokee rival. Follow along with Southlake Ford while we take a closer look at these two strong platforms.
New Escape Inventory
New and popular vehicles at competitive prices.
| 2025 Ford Escape | 2025 Jeep Cherokee | |
| Base Engine | Turbo., 1.5-L, 3-Cyl. | 2.4-L, 4-Cyl. |
| Horsepower / Torque (lb.-ft.) | 180 / 199 | 180 / 171 |
| Front / Rear Legroom (mm) | 1,839 / 1,034 | 1,044 / 1,024 |
| Max. Cargo Volume (L) | 1,940 | 1,549 |
Performance
Engine Output
The current Ford Escape and Jeep Cherokee are evenly matched at the base level in terms of performance. Escape drivers can start with a turbocharged 1.5-litre, three-cylinder engine making 180 horsepower. The Cherokee uses a larger four-cylinder engine that also makes 180 horsepower. Ford also makes a 250-horsepower, turbocharged engine available.
Fuel Economy
Ford Escape owners will see markedly better fuel economy scores than people driving the current Cherokee model. The Escape, with the base powertrain, can achieve 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 6.9 L/100 km on the highway. Cherokee drivers will see north of 11 L/100 km in the city and 8 L/100 km on the highway. Even the upgraded Escape engine gets better fuel economy than the Jeep SUV.
Design
Passenger Space
Both SUVs have two rows of seats that can hold up to five passengers each. The 2025 Escape can make up to 1,839 mm of legroom for front passengers and up to 1,034 for people in the rear seats. Both figures outpace the maximum legroom measurements available in the Cherokee.
Cargo Volume
Regardless of whatever else an SUV has to offer, its ability to deftly move people and/or cargo. When the rear of the 2025 Ford Escape is properly configured, up to 1,940 litres of cargo volume is available. This comes in several hundred litres ahead than what is available in the back of the Jeep Cherokee.
Technology
Advanced Connectivity
While both SUVs have advanced infotainment systems compatible with today’s most popular smartphone platforms. However, the 2025 Escape goes a step further by making connectivity to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wireless. Additionally, the available Ford Wi-Fi hotspot can be used by 10 devices simultaneously, up to 15 metres away from the cabin.
Next-Generation Safety
Both automakers prioritize passenger safety. The Ford Co-Pilot360® system makes a strong case for being among the most comprehensive in the industry. Some of the standard sensors equipped with the 2025 Escape include Blind Spot Information System and a 360° camera system.
Verdict: Escape vs. Cherokee
To be sure, both the 2025 Ford Escape and its current Jeep Cherokee each have something for someone. Buyers looking for the best balance between performance and efficiency as well as a platform with a very passenger-friendly cabin, will find more advantages with the 2025 Ford Escape.
Now is an excellent time to visit the Southlake Ford showroom to take a closer look at the 2025 Ford Escape. Schedule an appointment with one of our product experts today if you would like to go for a personalized test drive or if you need help starting the pre-ordering process. When you complete the sales process, don’t forget to stop by the service department to schedule your new SUV’s first round of recommended maintenance.