What To Know
- However, the Escape offers a few more creature comforts, such as a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system, as available options.
- However, the Escape offers a more comprehensive list of standard features, including a turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and a wider range of advanced safety features.
- The Outlander Sport, on the other hand, offers a more affordable price point and a longer warranty (10 years/100,000 miles versus 5 years/60,000 miles for the Escape).
In the realm of compact SUVs, two formidable contenders stand out: the Ford Escape and the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and style, catering to the diverse needs of modern drivers. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of these two SUVs, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and key differences to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Under the hood, the Ford Escape offers a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that delivers 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provides ample acceleration and passing power, making it a joy to drive in both urban and highway settings. The Outlander Sport, on the other hand, features a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While adequate for everyday driving, this engine feels somewhat sluggish compared to the Escape’s turbocharged unit.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Escape shines with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. The Outlander Sport lags slightly behind, achieving 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. However, both SUVs offer all-wheel drive as an option, providing enhanced traction and stability in inclement weather conditions.
Interior Space and Comfort
When it comes to interior space, the Ford Escape offers a more spacious cabin than the Outlander Sport. Front-seat occupants in both vehicles will find ample headroom and legroom, but the Escape provides slightly more shoulder room. The rear seats in the Escape are also more accommodating, offering more legroom and headroom for taller passengers.
In terms of comfort, the Escape and Outlander Sport offer a comparable level of amenities. Both vehicles come standard with cloth upholstery, a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a rearview camera. However, the Escape offers a few more creature comforts, such as a heated steering wheel, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system, as available options.
Safety Features
Both the Ford Escape and the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. The Escape, however, offers a wider range of advanced safety features as standard, including lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Outlander Sport offers these features as optional extras, which may add to the overall cost of the vehicle.
Cargo Capacity and Towing
The Ford Escape provides a more generous cargo area than the Outlander Sport, with 37.5 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 65.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The Outlander Sport offers 21.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 49.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
In terms of towing capacity, the Escape can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped, while the Outlander Sport can tow up to 2,000 pounds. This makes the Escape a more capable choice for those who need to tow a trailer or boat.
Price and Value
The Ford Escape has a starting price of $24,885, while the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport starts at $24,995. However, the Escape offers a more comprehensive list of standard features, including a turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and a wider range of advanced safety features. The Outlander Sport, on the other hand, offers a more affordable price point and a longer warranty (10 years/100,000 miles versus 5 years/60,000 miles for the Escape).
Which SUV is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Ford Escape and the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, fuel efficiency, and interior space, the Escape is the clear winner. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable SUV with a longer warranty, the Outlander Sport is worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has better fuel efficiency, the Ford Escape or the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?
A: The Ford Escape has better fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway compared to the Outlander Sport’s 24 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space, the Ford Escape or the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?
A: The Ford Escape has more cargo space, with 37.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 65.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down compared to the Outlander Sport’s 21.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 49.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Q: Which SUV has a better warranty, the Ford Escape or the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport?
A: The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has a better warranty, with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty compared to the Ford Escape‘s 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty.