2017 Subaru Forester vs. 2017 Ford Escape
iSeeCars' unbiased and data-driven comparison of the 2017 Subaru Forester and 2017 Ford Escape contrasts the two cars across a broad spectrum of vehicle specifications to determine which car is better. In addition to comparing pricing and specs, iSeeCars uses all the ratings, rankings, and insights from its comprehensive analyses of each vehicle model, including calculations of reliability, safety, depreciation, value retention, and the vehicle's projected lifetime recalls (based on analyzing over 25 billion data points). This in-depth evaluation is used to identify which vehicle represents a better overall choice for shoppers who are considering both the 2017 Subaru Forester and the 2017 Ford Escape.
When we compare the 2017 Subaru Forester's and the 2017 Ford Escape's specifications and ratings, the 2017 Subaru Forester has the advantage in the areas of reliability, resale value, interior volume and base engine power. The 2017 Ford Escape has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for used cars, and overall quality score. The 2017 Subaru Forester and 2017 Ford Escape have the same fuel efficiency. Based on this comparison of the 2017 Subaru Forester's and the 2017 Ford Escape's specifications and ratings, the 2017 Subaru Forester is a better car than the 2017 Ford Escape.
Pricing: A used 2017 Subaru Forester ranges from $12,499 to $22,995 while a used 2017 Ford Escape is priced between $9,400 to $18,995.
Resale/Retained Value: Looking at the 5-year depreciation rate for both models, the 2017 Subaru Forester loses 34.5 percent of its value and the 2017 Ford Escape loses 46.4 percent of its value. This means the 2017 Subaru Forester retains 11.9 percentage points more of its value and has the advantage of higher resale value versus the 2017 Ford Escape.
Quality Rating: The iSeeCars Overall Quality rating for the Subaru Forester is 8.6 out of 10 while the Ford Escape's quality rating is 8.6 out of 10. This results in the Subaru Forester being ranked 3 out of 19 Best Small SUVs and the Ford Escape being ranked 12 out of 19. Out of 67 Best Crossover SUVs, the Subaru Forester is ranked 4 and the Ford Escape is ranked 27.
Reliability Rating: iSeeCars’ Reliability Rating for the Subaru Forester is 8.3 out of 10. For the Ford Escape the reliability rating is 8.2 out of 10. This gives the Subaru Forester a slight advantage in reliability compared to the Ford Escape.
Engine Power and Fuel Efficiency Comparison: For engine performance, the 2017 Subaru Forester’s base engine makes 170 horsepower, and the 2017 Ford Escape base engine makes 168 horsepower. Both the Forester and the Escape are rated to deliver an average of 24 miles per gallon, with highway ranges of 445 and 455 miles respectively. Both models use regular unleaded.
Passenger Space Comparison: While both models are crossover/compact SUVs, the 2017 Subaru Forester has the advantage of offering more interior volume, reflected in more front head room, front shoulder room, rear head room, rear shoulder room, rear leg room, and cargo space. The 2017 Ford Escape has the advantage in the area of front leg room.
Safety Ratings: When comparing crash test ratings from NHTSA, both the 2017 Subaru Forester and the 2017 Ford Escape have the same average safety rating of 5 out of 5 Stars.
Overview
The Subaru Forester and Ford Escape are competitive compact SUVs offering a wide range of appealing features. The Forester comes standard with all-wheel drive while the Escape starts with front-wheel drive (all-wheel drive is available) and has a slightly larger back seat when seating three across. The Escape also offers two traditional engines along with a hybrid and plug-in hybrid option while the Forester is limited to a single, non-hybrid standard engine. The Subaru has a better turning radius for manoeuvring in tight spaces and is a bit sportier and more rewarding to drive when compared to the Ford, and for light off-road adventures the Forester is more capable, particularly in “Wilderness” trim that increases ground clearance. Interior space and material quality are comparable, meaning the only real advantage is the Forester’s standard all-wheel drive and added off-road prowess while the Escape counters with all those engine options, including hybrid choices.
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
-
Starting MSRP:
22595
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Compact SUVs)
23728
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Compact SUVs)
21995 - 25645
New Car Pricing
Asking Price:
-
Starting MSRP:
23750
Category Avg Starting MSRP:
(Compact SUVs)
23728
Category Starting MSRP Range:
(Compact SUVs)
21995 - 25645
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
17794
Price Range:
12499 - 22995
Category Avg Price:
(Compact SUVs)
16407
Category Avg Price Range:
(Compact SUVs)
14149 - 20586
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
576
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
99854
# Good or Great Deals:
242
Used Car Pricing
Avg Used Car Price:
14277
Price Range:
9400 - 18995
Category Avg Price:
(Compact SUVs)
16407
Category Avg Price Range:
(Compact SUVs)
14149 - 20586
# Used Cars for Sale Nationally:
1323
Avg Mileage of Used Cars for Sale:
99372
# Good or Great Deals:
531
Subaru Forester Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
8.550346 / 10
Reliability:
8.293408 / 10
Retained Value:
8.357629 / 10
Safety:
9.0 / 10
Ford Escape Scores & Rankings
Overall Score:
8.602578 / 10
Reliability:
8.195281 / 10
Retained Value:
7.612453 / 10
Safety:
10.0 / 10
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for 2017 Subaru Forester
Remaining Life Expectancy (years):
4.1
Typical Category Remaining Life Expectancy:
(Compact SUVs)
3.8
Category Remaining Life Expectancy Range:
(Compact SUVs)
2.8 - 6.4
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
0.101
iSeeCars Reliability Insights for 2017 Ford Escape
Remaining Life Expectancy (years):
3.2
Typical Category Remaining Life Expectancy:
(Compact SUVs)
3.8
Category Remaining Life Expectancy Range:
(Compact SUVs)
2.8 - 6.4
Chance of Reaching 200k Miles for a New Car:
0.142
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
4.233297578636504
Typical Category Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
3.7
Category Range for Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
0.9 - 14.9
Expected 30-year Lifetime Recalls
Expected Lifetime Recalls:
2.4877837920665
Typical Category Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
3.7
Category Range for Recalls:
(Compact SUVs)
0.9 - 14.9
Subaru Forester Rankings
Ranking
2 out of / 19Ranking
2 out of / 19Ranking
2 out of / 19Ranking
2 out of / 13Ranking
3 out of / 67Ranking
3 out of / 20Ranking
3 out of / 19Ranking
3 out of / 13Ranking
4 out of / 67Ranking
4 out of / 20Ranking
4 out of / 19Ranking
4 out of / 19Ranking
4 out of / 19Ranking
4 out of / 18Ranking
5 out of / 19Ranking
5 out of / 19Ranking
5 out of / 7Ranking
6 out of / 67Ranking
6 out of / 9Ranking
7 out of / 56Ranking
7 out of / 19Ranking
8 out of / 67Ranking
8 out of / 67Ranking
8 out of / 67Ranking
9 out of / 67Ranking
13 out of / 19Ranking
13 out of / 19Ranking
14 out of / 67Ranking
14 out of / 67Ranking
14 out of / 18Ranking
24 out of / 67Ranking
25 out of / 67Ranking
26 out of / 56Ranking
32 out of / 67Ranking
47 out of / 67Ford Escape Rankings
Ranking
3 out of / 19Ranking
4 out of / 19Ranking
5 out of / 19Ranking
6 out of / 19Ranking
6 out of / 19Ranking
9 out of / 19Ranking
10 out of / 19Ranking
10 out of / 13Ranking
11 out of / 67Ranking
11 out of / 19Ranking
11 out of / 19Ranking
11 out of / 18Ranking
11 out of / 13Ranking
12 out of / 67Ranking
12 out of / 20Ranking
12 out of / 19Ranking
12 out of / 18Ranking
13 out of / 20Ranking
14 out of / 19Ranking
18 out of / 67Ranking
19 out of / 56Ranking
19 out of / 19Ranking
22 out of / 67Ranking
23 out of / 56Ranking
27 out of / 67Ranking
27 out of / 67Ranking
30 out of / 67Ranking
32 out of / 67Ranking
33 out of / 67Ranking
34 out of / 67Ranking
34 out of / 67Ranking
46 out of / 67Ranking
57 out of / 67Summary Review
The Subaru Forester is a five-seat, compact SUV that foregoes the station wagon styling of other Subaru models for a more utilitarian, square-bodied design. The Forester has earned a reputation as a reliable and capable all-weather SUV with a spacious cabin and versatile cargo space. New models of the Forester cost an average of $32,632 and 3-year-old models average $23,752.
Summary Review
The Ford Escape is a compact five-person SUV with a smooth ride and efficient engine options. The current Escape was redesigned for the 2020 model year, with new models costing an average of $29,828 and 3-year-old models averaging $20,407.
Pros and Cons
- All-wheel drive is standard
- Better-than-average ground clearance and off-road capability
- Large cargo area
- Engine power could be stronger
- Low tow rating may not match many buyers’ lifestyles
- Continuously variable transmission (CVT) not to everyone’s liking
Pros and Cons
- Roomy interior
- Sharp handling with a smooth ride
- Wide range of powertrains
- Cheap interior materials
- Top trims are too pricey
- Small front seat cushions
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Body Styles
SUV
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
Available Drivetrain Options
Gasoline
2017 Subaru Forester Trim Levels
2.0XT Premium, 2.0XT Touring, 2.5i, 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Touring
2017 Ford Escape Trim Levels
S, SE, Titanium
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty Information
Warranty, Bumper-to-Bumper:
3 years / 36000 miles
Warranty, Powertrain:
5 years / 60000 miles
Warranty, Roadside Assistance:
5 years / 60000 miles
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
5 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Safety Rating (last 5 year average):
5 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Front Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Side Crash Overall Rating:
5 out of 5 Stars
2025 NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4 out of 5 Stars
IIHS Safety Rating:
Not yet available
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
170 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
174 foot-lbs @ 4100 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.051 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
Not yet available
Base Drivetrain Specs
Horsepower:
168 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
170 foot-lbs @ 4500 rpm
Power-to-Weight Ratio (higher is better):
0.047 hp per pound
Towing capacity:
Not yet available
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
2.5 liters
Engine Configuration:
Flat/Horizontally Opposed
Number of Cylinders:
4
Transmission:
Manual
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
AWD
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
22 / 28 / 24
Range (city/hwy):
350 / 445 miles
Recommended Fuel Type:
Regular Unleaded
Engine Specifications
Engine Size:
2.5 liters
Engine Configuration:
Inline
Number of Cylinders:
4
Transmission:
Automatic
Standard/Optional Drivetrain Type:
FWD / AWD
EPA Fuel Economy
(City/Highway/Combined MPG):
21 / 29 / 24
Range (city/hwy):
330 / 455 miles
Recommended Fuel Type:
Regular Unleaded
Standard/Optional Features
Bench Seats:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Internet Radio:
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Navigation System:
Standard
Power outlet:
Standard
Roadside assistance:
Standard
Voice Recognition:
Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available
Alloy wheels:
Available
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Keyless Ignition:
Available
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Paddle Shifters:
Available
Parking Sensors:
Available
Power Lift Gate:
Available
Roof Rack:
Available
Satellite radio:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Trailer Hitch:
Available
Air Suspension:
N/A
Android Auto:
N/A
Apple CarPlay:
N/A
Automatic Parking:
N/A
Captain's seat:
N/A
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
N/A
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Massage Seats:
N/A
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Quad Seats:
N/A
Wifi:
N/A
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
N/A
Standard/Optional Features
Bench Seats:
Standard
Bluetooth:
Standard
Internet Radio:
Standard
Keyless Entry:
Standard
Navigation System:
Available
Power outlet:
Standard
Roadside assistance:
N/A
Voice Recognition:
Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Available
Alloy wheels:
Available
Heated Seats
Available
Heated Steering Wheel:
Available
Keyless Ignition:
Available
Leather Upholstery:
Available
Paddle Shifters:
Available
Parking Sensors:
Available
Power Lift Gate:
Available
Roof Rack:
Available
Satellite radio:
Available
Sunroof/Moonroof:
Available
Trailer Hitch:
Available
Air Suspension:
N/A
Android Auto:
Available
Apple CarPlay:
Available
Automatic Parking:
Available
Captain's seat:
N/A
Cooled/Ventilated Seats:
N/A
Front Bench Seats:
N/A
Massage Seats:
N/A
Panoramic Sunroof/Moonroof
N/A
Quad Seats:
N/A
Wifi:
N/A
Wireless Smartphone Charging:
N/A
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Available
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
Available
360-Degree Camera:
N/A
Driver Attention Monitoring:
N/A
Forward Collision Warning:
N/A
Lane Departure Warning:
N/A
Lane Keeping Assist:
N/A
Pedestrian Detection:
N/A
Rear Seat Reminder:
N/A
Safety Features
Backup camera:
Standard
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Available
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert:
Available
360-Degree Camera:
N/A
Driver Attention Monitoring:
N/A
Forward Collision Warning:
N/A
Lane Departure Warning:
N/A
Lane Keeping Assist:
N/A
Pedestrian Detection:
N/A
Rear Seat Reminder:
N/A
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
41.4 inches
Front Leg Room:
43 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
57 inches
Rear Head Room:
39.8 inches
Rear Leg Room:
38 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
56.5 inches
Cargo Space:
34.4 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
74.7 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
142.7 cubic feet
Interior Dimensions
Front Head Room:
39.9 inches
Front Leg Room:
43.1 inches
Front Shoulder Room:
55.9 inches
Rear Head Room:
39 inches
Rear Leg Room:
37.3 inches
Rear Shoulder Room:
55.2 inches
Cargo Space:
34 cubic feet
Cargo Space, 2nd-row seat folded down:
68 cubic feet
Overall Interior Volume:
132.7 cubic feet
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
3322 lbs
Width:
80 inches
Height:
66.4 inches
Length:
181.5 inches
Wheelbase:
103.9 inches
Ground Clearance:
8.7 inches
Exterior Dimensions
Curb Weight:
3552 lbs
Width:
81.8 inches
Height:
66.3 inches
Length:
178.1 inches
Wheelbase:
105.9 inches
Ground Clearance:
7.9 inches
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
17.0 x 7.0 inches
Wheel Type:
steel
Tire Size:
P225/60R17
Standard Wheel/Tire Information
Wheel Size:
17.0 x 7.5 inches
Wheel Type:
steel
Tire Size:
P235/55R17
Exterior Colors
Black
Crystal Black Silica
Blue
Quartz Blue Pearl
Gray
Dark Gray Metallic
Green
Jasmine Green Metallic
Red
Venetian Red Pearl
Silver
Ice Silver Metallic
White
Crystal White Pearl
Gold
Not available
Exterior Colors
Black
Shadow Black
Blue
Lightning Blue
Gray
Magnetic
Green
Not available
Red
Canyon Ridge
Silver
Ingot Silver
White
Oxford White
Gold
White Gold
Interior Colors
Black
Black
Gray
Gray
Interior Colors
Black
Charcoal Black
Gray
Not available
