Compact Suv Showdown: Ford Escape Vs. Jeep Cherokee Latitude – Witness The Clash Of The Titans

In the competitive world of compact SUVs, the Ford Escape and Jeep Cherokee Latitude stand out as two popular choices among drivers seeking versatility, capability, and style. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key aspects of these vehicles to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your needs and preferences best. From performance and fuel efficiency to interior features and safety ratings, we’ll explore the strengths and weaknesses of each SUV to provide you with a clear understanding of their differences.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Under the hood, the Ford Escape offers two engine options: a turbocharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that delivers 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The Jeep Cherokee Latitude, on the other hand, comes standard with a 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder engine that generates 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. Both SUVs offer all-wheel drive as an option, providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Ford Escape takes the lead with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for the base engine. The Jeep Cherokee Latitude, with its less powerful engine, achieves slightly lower fuel economy ratings of 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

Interior Features and Comfort

Inside, the Ford Escape and Jeep Cherokee Latitude offer spacious and comfortable cabins with a range of features to enhance your driving experience. The Escape features an intuitive SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a six-speaker audio system. The Cherokee Latitude comes equipped with the Uconnect 4 infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a six-speaker audio setup.

In terms of seating, the Escape offers five seats with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The Cherokee Latitude also provides seating for five, but its rear seats may feel slightly cramped for taller individuals. Both SUVs offer adjustable front seats and optional heated and ventilated seats for added comfort.

Cargo Space and Versatility

For those who require ample cargo space, the Ford Escape and Jeep Cherokee Latitude offer versatile cargo configurations to accommodate various needs. With the rear seats up, the Escape provides 33.5 cubic feet of cargo space, which can be expanded to 65.4 cubic feet by folding down the rear seats. The Cherokee Latitude offers slightly more cargo room, with 24.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

Both SUVs feature a hands-free power liftgate for easy access to the cargo area, and they offer additional storage compartments and hooks for securing items. The Cherokee Latitude also provides an optional fold-flat front passenger seat for accommodating longer items.

Safety Ratings and Features

When it comes to safety, the Ford Escape and Jeep Cherokee Latitude have earned impressive ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both SUVs received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, and they were both named Top Safety Picks by the IIHS.

In terms of safety features, the Escape and Cherokee Latitude come standard with a range of active and passive safety technologies. These include airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. Additionally, both SUVs offer advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

Off-Road Capability

For those who venture off the beaten path, the Jeep Cherokee Latitude has a slight edge over the Ford Escape in terms of off-road capability. The Cherokee Latitude features a more advanced four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing and a locking rear differential, providing better traction and control in challenging off-road conditions.

The Ford Escape, while not as capable as the Cherokee Latitude, still offers all-wheel drive and a terrain management system that allows you to select different driving modes for various road conditions. However, if serious off-roading is a priority, the Cherokee Latitude is the better choice.

Price and Value

The Ford Escape has a starting price of $26,495 for the base S trim, while the Jeep Cherokee Latitude starts at $28,995. As you move up the trim levels, both SUVs offer various features and options that can increase the price significantly.

When it comes to value, the Ford Escape offers a more affordable starting price and a wider range of trim levels to choose from. However, the Jeep Cherokee Latitude comes standard with more features than the base Escape, and it offers a more capable off-road experience. Ultimately, the best value will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Which One Is Right for You?

The Ford Escape and Jeep Cherokee Latitude are both excellent compact SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Escape offers a more fuel-efficient and affordable option with a spacious interior and a variety of features. The Cherokee Latitude, on the other hand, provides superior off-road capability, a more powerful engine, and a slightly more spacious cargo area.

To determine which SUV is right for you, consider your driving needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, affordability, and a comfortable interior, the Ford Escape is a great choice. If you value off-road capability, a more powerful engine, and a larger cargo area, the Jeep Cherokee Latitude is the better option.

FAQs

1. Which SUV has better fuel efficiency, the Ford Escape or the Jeep Cherokee Latitude?

The Ford Escape has better fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway compared to the Cherokee Latitude’s 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

2. Which SUV has more cargo space, the Ford Escape or the Jeep Cherokee Latitude?

The Jeep Cherokee Latitude has slightly more cargo space, with 24.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down compared to the Escape’s 33.5 cubic feet and 65.4 cubic feet, respectively.

3. Which SUV is better for off-roading, the Ford Escape or the Jeep Cherokee Latitude?

The Jeep Cherokee Latitude is better for off-roading, thanks to its more advanced four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing and a locking rear differential.

4. Which SUV is more affordable, the Ford Escape or the Jeep Cherokee Latitude?

The Ford Escape is more affordable, with a starting price of $26,495 compared to the Cherokee Latitude‘s starting price of $28,995.

5. Which SUV has a better safety rating, the Ford Escape or the Jeep Cherokee Latitude?

Both the Ford Escape and Jeep Cherokee Latitude have earned impressive safety ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS, receiving a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and being named Top Safety Picks by the IIHS.