Ford Escape Vs Vw Taos: A Duel Of Crossovers: Which One Wins?

What To Know

The Escape offers a range of engine options, including a turbocharged 1.
The Escape has a starting price of $26,550 for the base S trim.
The Taos starts at a slightly lower price of $22,995 for the base S trim.

The automotive landscape is abuzz with the fierce rivalry between two compact SUV powerhouses: the Ford Escape and the Volkswagen Taos. Both contenders bring forth their unique blend of performance, efficiency, and versatility, catering to the diverse needs of modern drivers. As you navigate the world of compact SUVs, this comprehensive comparison will guide you through the intricacies of each vehicle, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your driving preferences and lifestyle.

Performance and Powertrain: Unleashing Dynamic Driving Experiences

1. Engine Options and Configurations:

Ford Escape: The Escape offers a range of engine options, including a turbocharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine, a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, and a 2.5-liter hybrid powertrain.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos comes equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter TSI engine as its sole powertrain option.

2. Horsepower and Torque:

Ford Escape: The Escape’s engines deliver varying levels of horsepower and torque, with the 1.5-liter EcoBoost producing 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, the 2.0-liter EcoBoost generating 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, and the hybrid system offering 200 horsepower and 155 lb-ft of torque.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos’s 1.5-liter TSI engine produces 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

3. Fuel Efficiency:

Ford Escape: The Escape’s fuel efficiency varies depending on the chosen powertrain. The 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, while the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine delivers 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The hybrid powertrain offers an impressive 44 mpg city and 41 mpg highway.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos’s 1.5-liter TSI engine provides an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway.

1. Cabin Design and Materials:

Ford Escape: The Escape’s cabin boasts a modern and well-crafted design, featuring high-quality materials and intuitive controls.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos’s interior exudes a sophisticated and upscale ambiance, with soft-touch surfaces and thoughtful details.

2. Seating and Cargo Space:

Ford Escape: The Escape offers spacious seating for up to five passengers, along with a generous cargo area that can be expanded by folding down the rear seats.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos provides comfortable seating for five, with a cargo capacity that is slightly smaller than the Escape’s but still ample for everyday needs.

3. Infotainment and Connectivity:

Ford Escape: The Escape comes equipped with Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, featuring a user-friendly interface, voice control, and smartphone integration.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos features Volkswagen’s MIB3 infotainment system, which offers a sleek interface, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility.

Safety and Driver Assistance: Ensuring Peace of Mind on Every Journey

1. Standard Safety Features:

Ford Escape: The Escape comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos also offers an array of standard safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane keeping assist.

2. Available Driver Assistance Technologies:

Ford Escape: The Escape can be equipped with additional driver assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, and a 360-degree camera system.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos offers similar advanced driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, and a surround-view camera system.

Off-Road Capabilities: Exploring Uncharted Territories

1. All-Wheel Drive Systems:

Ford Escape: The Escape offers an intelligent all-wheel drive system that automatically adjusts power distribution to optimize traction in various driving conditions.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos comes standard with a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system that provides enhanced grip and stability on slippery or uneven surfaces.

2. Ground Clearance and Approach/Departure Angles:

Ford Escape: The Escape has a ground clearance of 8.6 inches, along with approach and departure angles of 25.4 degrees and 20.3 degrees, respectively.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos offers a ground clearance of 8.3 inches, with approach and departure angles of 18.4 degrees and 24.8 degrees, respectively.

Pricing and Trims: Navigating the Options

1. Starting Prices:

Ford Escape: The Escape has a starting price of $26,550 for the base S trim.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos starts at a slightly lower price of $22,995 for the base S trim.

2. Trim Levels and Features:

Ford Escape: The Escape offers various trim levels, including SE, SEL, and Titanium, each with its unique set of features and amenities.

Volkswagen Taos: The Taos also comes in multiple trim levels, such as SE, SEL, and SEL Premium R-Line, offering a range of comfort, convenience, and technology features.

Summary: Unveiling the Victor in the Compact SUV Showdown

The Ford Escape and Volkswagen Taos are both compelling compact SUVs that offer a blend of performance, efficiency, and versatility. While the Escape boasts a more powerful engine lineup and a slightly more spacious interior, the Taos offers a lower starting price and a more upscale cabin ambiance. Ultimately, the choice between these two rivals depends on your specific driving needs, preferences, and budget.