Which SUV Trim Offers More Value in 2025: Escape ST-Line or Tucson XRT?
The 2025 SUV showdown is officially on—and two of the most talked-about trims are going head-to-head: the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line and the Hyundai Tucson XRT. Both crossovers deliver sporty design cues, driver-focused features, and serious everyday capability—but only one will prove to be the smarter buy for drivers in Lancaster, Palmdale, Antelope Valley, and Mojave. Whether you’re commuting through city traffic or heading out to the desert, choosing the right trim matters.
In this trim guide, we’ll break down the Escape vs Tucson comparison in full detail. You’ll see how pricing, performance, styling, interior features, and safety tech stack up between the Escape ST-Line and Tucson XRT. These trims represent the sweet spot for style-conscious drivers who want more than a base model, without stretching into luxury SUV territory.
If you’re weighing the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line against the Hyundai Tucson XRT, this guide gives you a clear side-by-side comparison—everything from engine specs and AWD capability to touchscreen size and safety systems—so you can make the most informed decision before visiting Diamond Ford.
Drivers from Lancaster, Palmdale, Antelope Valley, and Mojave are invited to stop by and experience the Diamond Ford difference today
How Do the Prices of the Ford Escape ST-Line and Tucson XRT Compare?
Price is often the first thing drivers check when choosing their next SUV. And in this 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line vs Hyundai Tucson XRT matchup, that number can make a big difference—especially for drivers in Lancaster, Palmdale, Antelope Valley, and Mojave who want strong value from day one.
Here’s a look at the starting MSRP for both trims:
| Model | Starting MSRP |
| 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line | $30,360 |
| 2025 Hyundai Tucson XRT | $33,015 |
The Escape gives you a more budget-friendly entry point. That’s a savings of over $2,600, which may be enough to cover a few upgrades or even your first year of fuel.
Even with the lower price tag, the Escape ST-Line comes well-equipped. Key features include:
- 1.5L EcoBoost engine with Auto Start-Stop
- Available all-wheel drive
- 8-way power driver seat
- Unique red-stitch interior accents
- 18-inch Rock Metallic wheels
By contrast, the Tucson XRT focuses more on rugged looks. At a higher price point, it includes:
- 2.5L GDI/MPI 4-cylinder engine
- Available all-wheel drive
- 18-inch alloy wheels (XRT-exclusive)
- Blacked-out trim, side cladding, and front/rear fascias
Both trims aim to blend good looks with useful features. But if you’re looking for a well-balanced SUV at a more affordable price, the Escape ST-Line delivers real value.
This section shows a clear difference in Ford Escape ST-Line vs Tucson XRT price and features, helping drivers understand what they get for their money. Whether you’re cruising through Lancaster or heading out to Mojave, saving a few thousand dollars without giving up key features might be the smart move.
What Performance Features Can You Expect from These 2025 SUV Trims?
When it comes to power and how your SUV handles the road, the Escape vs Tucson match-up brings two strong options. Both offer smooth drives and fuel-saving features, but their engines and powertrains take different paths.
Here’s a quick look at how the two trims compare:
| Feature | Ford Escape ST-Line | Hyundai Tucson XRT |
| Engine | 1.5L EcoBoost (turbo) | 2.5L GDI/MPI (non-turbo) |
| Horsepower | Estimated 180 hp | 187 hp |
| Drive Type | FWD standard, AWD available | FWD standard, AWD available |
| MPG (City/Hwy)** | Up to 27/34 | Up to 25/33 |
**EPA-est. for Escape varies by configuration.
Even with a smaller turbocharged engine, the Escape ST-Line holds its own. Its EcoBoost system gives it quick pick-up and strong fuel use, which helps during both city drives and longer road trips.
The Tucson XRT uses a bigger, non-turbo engine. While it makes slightly more power, it’s not as quick off the line. That said, it still offers solid miles per gallon and is easy to drive on highways and backroads.
Both trims offer all-wheel drive, which is a plus for trips through Antelope Valley or mountain roads near Palmdale. If you want the feel of sporty speed with strong fuel numbers, the Escape might have the edge.
In terms of Ford Escape ST-Line vs Tucson XRT price and features, the Escape offers more in terms of fuel use and power balance for its cost. Drivers looking for zip and smart use of gas will like what the Escape brings to the table.
Which SUV Has the More Stylish Exterior?
Style matters—especially for drivers in Lancaster, Palmdale, and Antelope Valley who want their ride to stand out on the road. In the 2025 SUV showdown, the Escape vs Tucson battle brings two very different looks to the table. One is sporty and sleek. The other leans rugged and bold.
Here’s how they compare:
| Style Feature | Escape ST-Line | Tucson XRT |
| Wheel Design | 18” Rock Metallic alloy | 18” XRT-exclusive alloy |
| Trim Accents | Body-colored with red stitch details | Matte black cladding and bumpers |
| Overall Style | Sporty with low-profile touches | Rugged with off-road vibes |
The Escape ST-Line brings a clean, modern look. With bold wheels, sharp lines, and gloss-black trim, it feels fresh and quick. Red stitching on the grille and inside the cabin adds to the athletic vibe.
The Tucson XRT goes the opposite way. It has a tougher, trail-ready stance with black trim around the bumpers, doors, and wheel wells. The styling says it’s ready for dirt roads, not just the city.
Drivers in the Mojave area may prefer the XRT’s desert-ready look. But for those who want a sleeker SUV that fits just as well in town as on the highway, the Escape might be the better fit.
In the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line vs Hyundai Tucson XRT match-up, it comes down to personal taste. Do you want clean and bold or blacked-out and rugged? Both stand out—but in very different ways.
How Do the Interior Features and Technology Stack Up?
When it comes to comfort and tech, the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line vs Hyundai Tucson XRT comparison gets even more interesting. These trims offer strong features that aim to keep you connected, relaxed, and in control. Whether you’re heading through Mojave, commuting in Antelope Valley, or running errands in Lancaster, comfort makes a difference.
Let’s take a closer look at what each SUV offers inside:
| Interior Feature | Escape ST-Line | Tucson XRT |
| Driver Seat | 8-way power seat | 6-way manual seat |
| Touchscreen Size | 13.2-inch LCD | 12.3-inch display |
| Interior Trim | Red-stitch accents | Black interior with rugged styling |
| Key Access | Standard key system | Digital Key 2 included |
Escape ST-Line interior highlights:
- Large 13.2-inch touchscreen with smooth menus
- Sport seats with red stitching for a bold look
- Easy-to-use controls and clean dash design
- Smart storage for daily needs
Tucson XRT interior highlights:
- Wide 12.3-inch touchscreen with sleek layout
- Hyundai Digital Key 2 adds phone-based access
- Rugged black trim gives it a tougher look
- Clean dash with modern finishes
Both cabins offer plenty of space for five people. But for daily drives through Palmdale or trips to the mountains, how that space feels matters too. The Escape stands out with a sportier layout and a larger screen. The Tucson keeps things rugged but modern.
In this trim-level match-up, both deliver solid tech and smart layout. It comes down to what you like more—sleek and sporty or strong and simple. Either way, both give you the comfort and tools you’ll need behind the wheel.
What Driver-Assist and Safety Technologies Come Standard?
For many drivers, safety is a top concern. The good news is that both trims come packed with smart safety tools. In this Ford Escape ST-Line vs Tucson XRT price and features comparison, each SUV offers strong peace of mind for daily drives and long trips alike.
Let’s break down what comes standard:
| Safety Feature | Escape ST-Line | Tucson XRT |
| Lane Keep System | Included (Ford Co-Pilot360) | Included |
| Blind Spot Watch | Standard | Standard |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | Standard | Standard (with brake assist) |
| Auto Brake | Standard | Standard with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection |
| Driver Attention Help | Not listed | Standard |
| Cruise with Stop & Go | Optional (Assist+) | Included (HDA) |
Escape ST-Line safety features:
- Ford Co-Pilot360 system
- Lane Keep Aid
- Blind Spot watch with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Auto Emergency Brake with front alerts
- Optional Adaptive Cruise with Stop & Go
Tucson XRT safety features:
- Lane Keep Aid with Steering Help
- Driver Focus Alert System
- Rear Cross-Traffic with Brake Assist
- Pedestrian and Cyclist Brake Help
- Highway Drive Aid (HDA) with cruise tools
The Escape offers strong safety tech with the base trim, and even more with available upgrades like Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+. The Tucson builds on its base with added features like Driver Attention Warning and HDA.
When it comes to safety, both trims hold their own. The Escape gives you room to add more tools as you go. The Tucson includes more up front, which may appeal to those who want more out of the gate.
In this part of the Ford Escape ST-Line vs Tucson XRT price and features look, your choice depends on how much tech you want built in—and how much you’d like to upgrade later.
What is the main difference between the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line and Hyundai Tucson XRT?
The main difference is that the Escape ST-Line offers a sportier, turbocharged drive, while the Tucson XRT focuses on rugged styling with a non-turbo engine.
Which SUV is better for city driving?
The Escape ST-Line is better for city driving due to its smaller turbocharged engine, better fuel economy, and more agile feel.
Which trim has better fuel economy: Escape ST-Line or Tucson XRT?
The Escape ST-Line has better fuel economy, with up to 27 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. The Tucson XRT offers up to 25 MPG city and 33 MPG highway.
What engine options are available for the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line?
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line offers a 1.5L EcoBoost turbocharged engine. A hybrid option is also available on other ST-Line variants.
Which SUV Is Best Suited for Drivers in Lancaster, Palmdale, and Mojave?
The Tucson XRT gives a bold look and solid safety, but for many local drivers, the Escape may be the better day-to-day pick. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading out for a weekend drive, it keeps things smooth and simple.
Ready to learn more about the 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line vs Hyundai Tucson XRT? The team at Diamond Ford is here to help. We welcome drivers from all across the region to explore our wide selection of new vehicles—including the latest Escape trims.
Want more Ford tips and tools while you’re here? Check out our simple guide on memory seat settings, or learn whether mobile oil changes are worth it for your schedule. Need help choosing the right SUV for your family? You’ll also want to see our breakdown of seating capacities across the Ford lineup.
Visit our dealership to browse in person, take a test drive, or speak with one of our Ford specialists. You can also contact us online or by phone with any questions about availability, pricing, or special offers.
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