The Ford Escape and Honda CR-V are two of the best-selling compact SUVs in America. Both are practical and efficient, but they take different approaches. Here is how they stack up.
| 2018 Ford Escape | 2018 Honda CR-V | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine choices | Three: 2.5L, 1.5L EcoBoost, 2.0L EcoBoost | Two: 2.4L, 1.5L turbo |
| Most powerful engine | 245 hp (2.0L EcoBoost) | 190 hp (1.5L turbo) |
| Maximum towing | Up to 3,500 lbs | Up to 1,500 lbs |
| Hands-free liftgate | Available | Power liftgate on upper trims |
| Smartphone integration | SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Apple CarPlay & Android Auto (EX and up) |
Performance
The Escape’s available 2.0L EcoBoost makes significantly more power than anything in the CR-V lineup, and its towing capacity is more than double – enough for a small boat or a pair of jet skis heading to Clinton Lake or Perry Lake.
Interior and Cargo
The CR-V offers slightly more maximum cargo space, while the Escape answers with a hands-free foot-activated liftgate, available heated steering wheel and Ford’s intuitive SYNC 3 system.
The Verdict
If you want the most power, towing and choice in a compact SUV, the Escape is the clear pick. Test drive both back-to-back and decide for yourself – we will have an Escape ready at Laird Noller Ford.
