What To Know
- In the realm of compact SUVs, the Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5 stand as prominent contenders, captivating the attention of discerning drivers worldwide.
- The Escape’s base engine returns an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the CX-5 achieves slightly better ratings of 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
- The Escape’s diverse powertrain lineup, spacious interior, and comprehensive safety features make it a well-rounded choice for a wide range of drivers.
In the realm of compact SUVs, the Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5 stand as prominent contenders, captivating the attention of discerning drivers worldwide. Both vehicles boast a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and style, making them ideal companions for urban adventures and outdoor escapades alike. However, discerning the superior choice between these two automotive stalwarts requires a meticulous examination of their respective strengths and weaknesses.
Performance and Efficiency
The Ford Escape offers a diverse powertrain lineup, catering to a wide range of driving preferences. Its base engine, a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder unit, generates a respectable 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate acceleration for everyday driving. For those seeking more spirited performance, the Escape offers a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that unleashes 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, transforming the SUV into a thrilling driving companion.
The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, adopts a more streamlined approach, offering a sole powertrain option: a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. While this engine delivers ample power for most driving situations, it may feel somewhat lacking in oomph when compared to the Escape’s more potent turbocharged offerings.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Escape and CX-5 exhibit comparable figures. The Escape’s base engine returns an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the CX-5 achieves slightly better ratings of 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. However, the Escape’s available hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants offer significantly improved fuel economy, making it the more eco-conscious choice for environmentally conscious drivers.
Interior and Comfort
The Ford Escape’s cabin is a well-appointed space, featuring user-friendly controls, comfortable seating, and ample cargo room. The SYNC 3 infotainment system, with its intuitive interface and responsive touchscreen, takes center stage on the dashboard, providing seamless connectivity and entertainment. The Escape also offers a generous amount of cargo space, with 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 65.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down, making it a practical choice for hauling luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear.
The Mazda CX-5’s interior exudes a more upscale ambiance, with premium materials and meticulous attention to detail. The infotainment system, while not as user-friendly as the Escape’s SYNC 3, still offers a wide range of features and functions. The CX-5 also boasts a spacious cabin, with 30.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down, providing ample room for passengers and their belongings.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Both the Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5 have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), demonstrating their commitment to occupant protection. A comprehensive suite of driver assistance features is available on both vehicles, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of accidents.
Price and Value
The Ford Escape has a starting price of $27,495, while the Mazda CX-5 starts at $26,800. When comparing similarly equipped models, the Escape typically carries a slightly higher price tag than the CX-5. However, the Escape’s more extensive powertrain lineup and the availability of hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants may justify the additional cost for some buyers.
Takeaways: Unveiling the Superior Choice
The Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5 are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality. The Escape’s diverse powertrain lineup, spacious interior, and comprehensive safety features make it a well-rounded choice for a wide range of drivers. The CX-5, with its upscale interior, engaging driving dynamics, and competitive pricing, appeals to those seeking a more refined driving experience. Ultimately, the superior choice between these two vehicles depends on individual preferences, driving needs, and budget constraints.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q1: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Ford Escape offers a more potent engine option: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit that generates 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The Mazda CX-5, on the other hand, has a sole powertrain option: a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque.
Q2: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Ford Escape offers a more spacious interior, with 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 65.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Mazda CX-5 has a slightly smaller interior, with 30.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 59.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down.
Q3: Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
A: The Mazda CX-5 has slightly better fuel economy ratings than the Ford Escape. The CX-5 achieves an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, while the Escape returns 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. However, the Escape’s available hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants offer significantly improved fuel economy.