Skip to main content

The 2025 Honda CR-V takes a top spot among the models in the compact SUV segment for 2025. However, an American-made contender is challenging the CR-V’s reputation for quality and reliability. Based on owner satisfaction with the reliability of their compact SUV, the Ford Escape manages to edge out the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, and Toyota RAV4.  

The Honda CR-V took the top spot among compact SUVs for 2025. It shares the spotlight with the Kia Sportage and Subaru Forester. However, the Ford Escape outshined all three popular SUV models in terms of quality and reliability. 

According to J.D. Power, the Ford Escape earned an 85 out of 100 in the quality and reliability category. The scores are a result of ownership satisfaction data covering everything from “engine to infotainment system.”

Still, even with a quality and reliability score above its Honda compact SUV rival, the CR-V took the overall segment win. Specifically, the CR-V earned an 85 out of 100 in terms of resale and an 83 for driving experience. Conversely, the Escape earned a 76 and an 85 in driving experience and resale, respectively. 

However, the Ford Escape couldn’t manage to earn a better quality and reliability score than the Chevrolet Equinox. The Equinox earned the segment’s best score for the category, namely an 88 out of 100. Still, even with the highest reliability score in the segment, the Equinox tied with the Ford Escape in overall compact SUV standings. 

As far as specific model years of Ford Escape go, CarComplaints ranked the 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2017 model years as some of the most problematic variants of the last 13 years. The 2014 model earns the “worst model year” title with frequently cited transmission problems.

Most notably, over 60 owners have reported catastrophic transmission issues at an average of just 85,000 miles. However, more recent models report far fewer transmission problems.

Related

It’s Clear Who Should Buy a Jeep Grand Cherokee Instead of a Jeep Cherokee

Best in SUVs
Avatar photo
Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman is a MotorBiscuit Staff Writer, an admitted petrolhead, and an avid motorcyclist. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and Humvees. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with expertise covering everything from sports cars and electric motorcycles to pontoon boats and jet skis. Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Texas at Austin. He also studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC). When he’s not working, you can find Erik on his motorcycle or out for a spirited drive.