The 2025 Dodge Hornet and Ford Escape are SUVs, but they couldn’t be any more different. We’ll look at the sporty Hornet and put it up against the more traditional Escape to see which model is the best for you.
Key Takeaways:
- For its price, the Hornet should come with similar features to the Escape, but that isn’t the case. This is because it comes with better features, and for not much more.
- The Hornet’s engine is more powerful than both non-hybrid engines on the Escape.
- No matter the trim, the Hornet is an AWD vehicle as standard; the same can't be said about the Escape.
Is the 2025 Dodge Hornet Powerful?
Looking at the engine options, the Hornet has the edge. All non-hybrid variants are powered by a 2.0L I4 engine that makes 268 horsepower. This comes paired with a nine-speed automatic engine and AWD configuration.
The Escape offers two non-hybrid engines, but neither of them is as strong. The first engine is a 1.5L I3 engine, producing 181 horsepower. The larger engine is a 2.0L I4 engine, and produces 250 horsepower.
Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the smaller engine offers both FWD and AWD, the larger engine only offers AWD.
If you want AWD without needing to possibly pay extra, then the Hornet is the way to go.
What is the Starting Price of a 2025 Ford Escape?
The 2025 Ford Escape has a starting price of $29,150, but the Hornet isn’t far behind. The Hornet has a starting price of $29,995, while it is a bit higher, it isn’t by much. When taking into consideration the larger engine and standard AWD, the extra few hundred dollars make it more than worth it.
The Escape comes with standard features that are less desirable than the Hornet too, and for a similar price, you would be reasonable to think that it comes with similar features.
The Escape has an 8-inch touchscreen, as well as dual-zone climate control. But that’s all the Escape has going for it.
The Hornet has a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, dual-zone climate control, as well as power folding mirrors. If you live in a busy city, this will help keep your vehicle intact in busy parking areas.
While it is rare for temperatures to get too low here, the Hornet also comes with heated mirrors. This helps keep them clear when the weather gets cold.
Is the 2025 Dodge Hornet a Sporty SUV?
A big aspect of the SUV is the sports aspect of it, and the Hornet takes that to heart. While both vehicles have similar 0-60 speeds, with the Hornet’s being 5.7 seconds, and the Escape’s being 5.8 seconds. The divide becomes known at its top speed.
Dodge isn’t afraid to make their vehicles speedy, and the Hornet is a prime example. Despite having a small frame, they claim that it has a top speed of 140 MPH, compared to the Escape’s 127 MPH.
If you want a fun vehicle that you can take down to a track when you’re not using it as a family vehicle, you’d want the Hornet. This will give even the most seasoned adrenaline seeker a smile on their face.
Car and Driver notes that the Hornet has “strong acceleration” and “handling that approaches sporty”. For the Escape, they also note that it is a “low-adrenaline driving experience.”
Is the 2025 Dodge Hornet or the Ford Escape Better?
We think the Hornet is the best option for those who value features, for a good price. It comes at a price that isn’t much higher than the Escape, but the features will make it seem much more expensive. If you’re wanting to test drive one, or just want to browse, come see us here at Alan Jay CDJR in Wauchula today!