What To Know
- The GMC Acadia, with its larger engine, offers a slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway for the four-cylinder engine and 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the V6 engine.
- The Escape features the SYNC 3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, while the Acadia offers the IntelliLink system with a larger 8-inch or 10.
- The Ford Escape has a starting price of $24,885 for the base S trim, while the GMC Acadia starts at $34,995 for the base SLE trim.
When it comes to compact SUVs, the Ford Escape and GMC Acadia stand out as two of the most popular choices in the market. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and style. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Ford Escape against the GMC Acadia, evaluating their key features, specifications, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Efficiency:
Engine Options:
The Ford Escape offers a range of engine options, including a turbocharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine that produces 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine that generates 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The GMC Acadia, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 193 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. Higher trims of the Acadia offer a 3.6-liter V6 engine that generates 310 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque.
Fuel Efficiency:
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Ford Escape takes the lead with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway for the base engine. The GMC Acadia, with its larger engine, offers a slightly lower fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway for the four-cylinder engine and 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the V6 engine.
Interior and Comfort:
Seating and Space:
The Ford Escape offers seating for five passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The GMC Acadia, with its larger size, provides seating for up to seven passengers, with three rows of seats. The third row in the Acadia, however, is best suited for occasional use due to limited legroom.
Cargo Capacity:
When it comes to cargo space, the Ford Escape offers 33.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 65.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The GMC Acadia, with its larger dimensions, provides a more generous cargo area, offering 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 41.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 79 cubic feet with all seats folded down.
Technology and Features:
Infotainment Systems:
Both the Ford Escape and GMC Acadia come equipped with user-friendly infotainment systems. The Escape features the SYNC 3 system with an 8-inch touchscreen, while the Acadia offers the IntelliLink system with a larger 8-inch or 10.2-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim level. Both systems offer smartphone integration, navigation, and a variety of connectivity options.
Safety Features:
In terms of safety, the Ford Escape and GMC Acadia offer a comprehensive suite of standard and available safety features. These include airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. Higher trims of both vehicles offer advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Price and Value:
Starting Price:
The Ford Escape has a starting price of $24,885 for the base S trim, while the GMC Acadia starts at $34,995 for the base SLE trim. However, keep in mind that the Acadia offers more standard features and a larger cabin.
Value Proposition:
While the GMC Acadia offers more space and features, the Ford Escape provides a more affordable entry point and better fuel efficiency. Ultimately, the best value depends on your individual needs and priorities.
Key Points: Choosing the Right Compact SUV for You
The Ford Escape and GMC Acadia are both excellent compact SUVs with distinct strengths and weaknesses. The Escape offers a more efficient and affordable option, while the Acadia provides more space and a more luxurious interior. Whether you prioritize fuel economy, affordability, or a spacious cabin, carefully consider your needs and preferences to determine which vehicle is the right choice for you. Take the time to test drive both vehicles and compare them side by side to make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and budget.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The GMC Acadia, with its available 3.6-liter V6 engine, produces more horsepower and torque than the Ford Escape‘s 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine.
Q: Which vehicle offers better fuel efficiency?
A: The Ford Escape has better fuel efficiency than the GMC Acadia, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway compared to the Acadia’s 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the V6 engine.
Q: Which vehicle has more cargo space?
A: The GMC Acadia offers more cargo space than the Ford Escape, with a maximum of 79 cubic feet with all seats folded down compared to the Escape’s 65.4 cubic feet.
Q: Which vehicle has a more advanced infotainment system?
A: Both vehicles offer user-friendly infotainment systems, but the GMC Acadia’s IntelliLink system with its larger touchscreen and more advanced features may be preferred by some users.
Q: Which vehicle offers more standard safety features?
A: Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera.