Ford Escape vs Subaru Outback
This page compares the Ford Escape and the Subaru Outback across the 14 model years both appear in our data (2013–2026). Both are classed as SUV on this site. Both average about 34 mpg (UK) on their most efficient configurations. NHTSA lists fewer recall campaigns per model year for the Subaru Outback (5.5 against 12.4), though campaign counts depend on how long each model has been on sale and how many variants share a campaign.
Head-to-Head: 2013–2026
| Measure | Ford Escape | Subaru Outback |
|---|---|---|
| Average best-configuration economy (mpg, UK) | 34 | 34 |
| Average CO₂ (g/km) | 199 | 198 |
| Average estimated annual fuel cost (US EPA) | $2,425 | $2,414 |
| Model years rated 5★ overall by NHTSA | 10 of 14 | 13 of 13 |
| Average recall campaigns per model year | 12.4 | 5.5 |
| Average owner complaints per model year | 1474 | 608 |
| Engine options across these years | 5 | 3 |
Year by Year
| Year | Ford Escape MPG (UK) | NHTSA | Recalls | Complaints | Subaru Outback MPG (UK) | NHTSA | Recalls | Complaints |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 31 | 4★ | 18 | 2,754 | 31 | 5★ | 12 | 297 |
| 2014 | 31 | 4★ | 16 | 2,088 | 31 | 5★ | 10 | 208 |
| 2015 | 31 | 4★ | 9 | 1,105 | 34 | 5★ | 5 | 509 |
| 2016 | 31 | 4★ | 4 | 1,137 | 34 | 5★ | 4 | 642 |
| 2017 | 31 | 5★ | 4 | 2,689 | 34 | 5★ | 4 | 917 |
| 2018 | 31 | 5★ | 4 | 1,803 | 34 | 5★ | 3 | 813 |
| 2019 | 31 | 5★ | 3 | 590 | 34 | 5★ | 3 | 1,035 |
| 2020 | 36 | 5★ | 24 | 1,822 | 35 | 5★ | 6 | 899 |
| 2021 | 36 | 5★ | 21 | 377 | 35 | 5★ | 4 | 296 |
| 2022 | 36 | 5★ | 21 | 380 | 35 | 5★ | 4 | 464 |
| 2023 | 36 | 5★ | 13 | 133 | 34 | 5★ | 2 | 89 |
| 2024 | 36 | 5★ | 10 | 87 | 34 | 5★ | 0 | 97 |
| 2025 | 36 | 5★ | 1 | 29 | 34 | 5★ | 0 | 81 |
| 2026 | 36 | 5★ | 0 | 4 | 32 | — | 0 | 29 |
MPG is each model year's most efficient configuration (US EPA, converted to UK mpg). Recalls and complaints are NHTSA counts as of 6 October 2026; complaints are unverified owner reports and rise with sales volume. See each model's full history: Ford Escape · Subaru Outback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more fuel-efficient, the Ford Escape or the Subaru Outback?
Both average about 34 mpg (UK) on their most efficient configurations. Figures are the US EPA combined result converted to UK mpg, averaged over the shared model years; individual engines and years differ, so check the year pages for the exact car.
Which has better NHTSA safety ratings?
The Ford Escape has 10 of 14 model years rated 5★ overall in these years and the Subaru Outback has 13 of 13. NHTSA ratings are only comparable between vehicles of similar size and weight, and the test criteria have changed over time.
Which has more recalls and owner complaints?
Per model year, the Ford Escape averages 12.4 recall campaigns and 1474 owner complaints; the Subaru Outback averages 5.5 and 608. Complaint counts are unverified owner reports and rise with sales volume, so use them as a pointer for what to inspect, not as a reliability ranking.
Where do these comparison figures come from?
Fuel economy, CO₂ and interior volume come from the US EPA's fueleconomy.gov data; ratings, recalls and complaints come from NHTSA. Only model years where both cars have data are compared.
As an Amazon Associate and CJ Affiliate and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links.
Popular Accessories for These Cars
Last updated: