Suv Showdown: Ford Escape Vs Mitsubishi Outlander – Which One Reigns Supreme On The Road?

What To Know

  • In terms of fuel efficiency, the Ford Escape Hybrid emerges as the clear winner, achieving an impressive EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
  • In the realm of technology and connectivity, the Ford Escape and Mitsubishi Outlander come equipped with an array of features to keep you entertained and connected on the go.
  • If you seek a powerful and fuel-efficient SUV with a spacious interior and advanced technology, the Ford Escape is an excellent option.

In the realm of compact SUVs, two formidable contenders stand out: the Ford Escape and the Mitsubishi Outlander. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and style, catering to the diverse needs of adventure-seekers, families, and urban explorers alike. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of each SUV, unveiling their strengths, weaknesses, and unique characteristics to help you make an informed decision.

Performance and Power: Unleashing the Inner Beast

Under the hood, the Ford Escape boasts a turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine that generates a respectable 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain delivers a spirited performance, enabling the Escape to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 7.2 seconds. On the other hand, the Mitsubishi Outlander offers a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. While adequate for daily commutes, the Outlander’s acceleration is noticeably slower, taking 8.9 seconds to reach 60 mph.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Ford Escape Hybrid emerges as the clear winner, achieving an impressive EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. The Mitsubishi Outlander, with its conventional powertrain, falls short in this aspect, delivering an EPA-estimated 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

Interior Comfort and Spaciousness: A Haven for Passengers

When it comes to interior comfort and spaciousness, the Ford Escape and Mitsubishi Outlander offer comparable experiences. Both SUVs provide ample headroom and legroom for passengers in both rows, ensuring a comfortable journey even on extended road trips. The Escape, however, offers a slight edge in cargo capacity, with 37.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 65.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Outlander, on the other hand, offers 33.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 66.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

Technology and Connectivity: Embracing the Digital Age

In the realm of technology and connectivity, the Ford Escape and Mitsubishi Outlander come equipped with an array of features to keep you entertained and connected on the go. The Escape features the SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium audio system. The Outlander counters with its own infotainment system, featuring a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a Rockford Fosgate premium audio system.

Safety and Reliability: Prioritizing Your Well-being

When it comes to safety, both the Ford Escape and Mitsubishi Outlander have earned commendable ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Both SUVs come standard with a suite of advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Additionally, the Escape offers a 360-degree camera system, while the Outlander features a heads-up display.

In terms of reliability, the Ford Escape has a slightly better track record than the Mitsubishi Outlander, according to J.D. Power and Associates. The Escape received a score of 82 out of 100, while the Outlander scored 78 out of 100.

Verdict: Choosing the Ideal Compact SUV for Your Needs

Ultimately, the choice between the Ford Escape and Mitsubishi Outlander boils down to your individual preferences and priorities. If you seek a powerful and fuel-efficient SUV with a spacious interior and advanced technology, the Ford Escape is an excellent option. On the other hand, if you prioritize affordability and a comfortable ride, the Mitsubishi Outlander is a compelling choice.

Additional Considerations: Beyond the Numbers

Apart from the key factors discussed above, there are additional considerations that may influence your decision-making process. These include:

  • Brand Reputation: Ford and Mitsubishi have distinct brand reputations that may sway your preference. Ford is known for its reliability and innovation, while Mitsubishi is known for its affordability and value.
  • Dealer Network: The availability and proximity of dealerships can impact your ownership experience. Consider the number and locations of dealerships in your area for both brands.
  • Resale Value: If you plan to sell your SUV in the future, consider the resale value of each model. The Ford Escape typically holds its value better than the Mitsubishi Outlander.

What You Need to Learn

1. Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
Answer: The Ford Escape has a more powerful engine, generating 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque compared to the Mitsubishi Outlander‘s 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque.

2. Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
Answer: The Ford Escape Hybrid is more fuel-efficient than the Mitsubishi Outlander, achieving an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway compared to the Outlander’s 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.

3. Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
Answer: The Ford Escape and Mitsubishi Outlander offer comparable interior space, with ample headroom and legroom for passengers in both rows. However, the Escape offers slightly more cargo capacity.

4. Which SUV has more advanced technology features?
Answer: The Ford Escape and Mitsubishi Outlander offer similar technology features, including infotainment systems with touchscreen displays, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and premium audio systems. The Escape features a 360-degree camera system, while the Outlander has a heads-up display.

5. Which SUV is safer?
Answer: Both the Ford Escape and Mitsubishi Outlander have earned commendable safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. Both SUVs come standard with a suite of advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.