Showdown of subcompact crossovers: nissan kicks vs ford escape – your guide to the ultimate choice

What To Know

  • The Escape’s fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration, with the most efficient model achieving 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
  • The Kicks has a roomy front seat with ample legroom and headroom, while the Escape provides slightly more legroom in the rear seats.
  • If you’re looking for a fuel-efficient, affordable, and compact crossover with a spacious interior, the Nissan Kicks is a great choice.

The compact crossover segment is one of the most competitive in the automotive industry, with automakers vying for attention with feature-rich, fuel-efficient, and versatile offerings. Two standout choices in this class are the Nissan Kicks and the Ford Escape. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key aspects of both vehicles to help you make an informed decision.

Performance

Engine Power: The Nissan Kicks comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. The Ford Escape offers a range of engine options, including a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder with 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy: The Kicks delivers an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. The Escape’s fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration, with the most efficient model achieving 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

Interior

Space and Comfort: Both vehicles offer spacious and comfortable interiors for their size. The Kicks has a roomy front seat with ample legroom and headroom, while the Escape provides slightly more legroom in the rear seats.

Cargo Capacity: The Kicks offers 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 53.1 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Escape has a slightly larger cargo capacity of 33.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 65.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

Technology

Infotainment System: The Kicks comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Escape offers a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with the same smartphone integration features.

Safety Features: Both vehicles offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Escape has a slight edge with features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

Price

Starting Price: The base Nissan Kicks S trim starts at $20,190, while the base Ford Escape S trim starts at $27,495.

Top Trim Price: The top-of-the-line Nissan Kicks SR trim starts at $23,890, while the top-of-the-line Ford Escape Titanium trim starts at $36,495.

Which One is Right for You?

Nissan Kicks: If you’re looking for a fuel-efficient, affordable, and compact crossover with a spacious interior, the Nissan Kicks is a great choice. It’s perfect for city dwellers and those who prioritize value.

Ford Escape: If you’re seeking a more powerful, feature-rich, and technologically advanced crossover with a larger cargo capacity, the Ford Escape is the better option. It’s ideal for families and those who frequently travel with gear.

Final Thoughts: The Battle of the Compact Crossovers

Both the Nissan Kicks and the Ford Escape are excellent choices in the compact crossover segment. The Kicks offers an unbeatable combination of value, efficiency, and space, while the Escape impresses with its powerful engines, advanced technology, and spacious cargo area. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Which vehicle has a better fuel economy?
The Nissan Kicks has a slightly better fuel economy than the Ford Escape.

2. Which vehicle has a more spacious cargo area?
The Ford Escape has a larger cargo capacity than the Nissan Kicks.

3. Which vehicle has more advanced safety features?
The Ford Escape has a slightly more comprehensive suite of safety features than the Nissan Kicks.

4. Which vehicle has a lower starting price?
The Nissan Kicks has a lower starting price than the Ford Escape.

5. Which vehicle is better for city driving?
The Nissan Kicks is better suited for city driving due to its smaller size and better fuel economy.