2020 Ford Escape vs 2020 Honda CR-V: face-off time

We like them because they offer us much more space than sedans, we also like them because they don't consume much more fuel and they provide us with a driving dynamic that's frankly fun, with a higher stance and, what's more, they often come with all-wheel drive, a true marvel for winter driving in Quebec. Compact utility vehicles are a big hit, and almost all manufacturers now offer them in their catalogues. Here, we'll see two of them, the 2020 Ford Escape and the 2020 Honda CR-V.

On our roads in Montreal and Laval since 1996, the Honda CR-V is now in its 5^th generation and is without a doubt one of the most popular Honda SUVs in the country. The Ford Escape, more recent, appeared in 2000. In this test drive, we'll look at their respective differences and try to determine which one is right for you. Here's the Escape vs CR-V comparison.

A more powerful engine

Just over $28,000 will buy the 2020 CR-V and the 2020 Escape, so no argument on this. Available in 6 models, including the LX-2WD, LX, Sport, EX-L, Touring and Black Edition, the CR-V offers a single engine, the 190-hp, 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder with 179 lb-ft of torque. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Real time all-wheel drive with Intelligent Control System complete the powertrain. The latter is available as an option on the LX model.

As for the Escape, it’s offered in 8 models: S, SE, SEL, Titanium, Titanium Hybrid, SE Plug-in Hybrid, SEL Plug-in Hybrid and Titanium Plug-in Hybrid. The S, SE and SEL versions are available with two engines: a 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder with 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. The Titanium is powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. It's certainly more powerful, but it will cost you over $40,000. An 8-speed automatic transmission completes the package. All models are available with or without all-wheel drive.

Just as frugal fuel consumption

Despite the higher power, the CR-V offers a lower combined fuel economy rating than the Escape, at 7.7 L/100 km versus 7.9 L/100 km. What is more, during your excursions in the country or trips to the grocery store, you'll be able to load more stock on board the CR-V, thanks to its 1,110-litre cargo capacity behind the rear seats, and 2,146 litres with all the seats folded down, compared to only 974 litres for Ford.

Much better equipped

Based on their respective entry-level versions, the CR-V gives you really good value for your money, as evidenced by the fact that when you purchase the LX variant of the CR-V, you'll get heated front seats, smart key, remote starter, adaptive cruise control, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi connectivity and so much more. The S variant at Ford doesn't offer you any of this, except as an option of course, which will force you to pay more money.

Even though it underwent an extreme transformation that makes it much more attractive and appealing, the Ford Escape unfortunately doesn't offer much equipment, unless you turn to the more expensive versions, of course.

On the safety front, the CR-V pulls out all the stop by giving to the new model year a suite of Honda Sensing safety technologies that include, among others, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning System, Lane Departure Warning System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, Lane Keeping Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation System, Hill Start Assist, and much more. The Ford is not up to par in this area.

In short

So to recap, the Honda CR-V SUV is by far the best choice between the two. Because by paying roughly the same price, you'll not only get more room for passengers and their luggage, more safety features and more technology, but also a more powerful engine while remaining just as energy-efficient, not to mention Honda's renowned reliability and remarkable driving dynamics. Come without delay to your Spinelli Honda dealer and choose yours!