2020 Ford Escape vs Honda CR-V

If you're looking for comfort and convenience--with a little extra space--inside your new ride, few vehicles can get the job done better than an SUV. Numerous drivers in the Mechanicsburg, Carlisle, and Harrisburg areas have already experienced the benefits an SUV can bring, so why not you, too?

To help find the right one for you, we've taken two of the best compact SUVs on the market and put them against each other. The 2020 Ford Escape and Honda CR-V both have a lot to offer, but only one can be right for you.

Learn more about these two impressive models in our comprehensive Ford Escape vs. Honda CR-V comparison, provided by Fred Beans Ford of Mechanicsburg.

2020 Escape vs 2020 CR-V: Performance

One of the bigger selling points for SUVs is their versatile performance. Drivers can seamlessly transition from maneuvering through city streets to conquering the highway, light off-roading, and so much more. Of course, you'll need the power to do so.

Luckily, both vehicles have plenty of power. If you're looking for brute strength, though, the Escape is the clear answer. Though the 2020 Escape has multiple engines to choose from, opt for the available 2.0L EcoBoost® 4-cylinder turbo engine, and you can enjoy an incredible 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the CR-V only has one engine to choose from, which can muster less horsepower and torque, coming in at 190 and 179 lb-ft respectively.

The Escape also tends to handle better than the CR-V. You'll find plenty of different kinds of SUVs on the market, but each one is generally catered to either those who want performance or comfort. The CR-V is firmly in the comfort category. The Escape is a bit harder to place, since it balances the two traits--allowing you to get the best of both worlds.

This is thanks to its 8-speed automatic transmission. Not only does this drivetrain provide smooth control, but it also comes equipped with SelectShift® and paddle shifters to customize your drive for a sportier performance. These features are not offered with the Honda's continuously variable transmission. 

Ford Escape vs Honda CR-V: Interior Room & Capability

When it comes to interior roominess, the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V can both seat up to five passengers, with plenty of cargo space in the rear. Though when comparing dimensions, there are some notable differences.

The CR-V has plenty of room inside, but you might be more comfortable behind the wheel of the Escape. You get 40 inches of front headroom and 42.4 inches of front legroom in the Escape, perfect for even taller commuters to stretch out in. Though the headroom in the Honda CR-V is comparable, with only 41.3 inches of front legroom, there's less space to relax in.

The interior isn't the only place where capability shines in the 2020 Ford Escape. If you're looking for a decent towing capacity in your SUV, the Escape delivers. It can haul up to 3,500 pounds in a trailer when equipped with the right configuration. The CR-V can tow a bit as well, but it maxes out at 1,500 pounds across all trim levels and configurations.

Escape vs CR-V: Interior Technology

A modern SUV wouldn't be complete without some of the latest tech, and these two have plenty. Both offer standard amenities, like Bluetooth® capability and multimedia systems with dashboard screens. However, it's in the upgrades that you'll find some differences.

Nothing can quite hold up to the SYNC® 3 infotainment system in the Escape. This state-of-the-art system allows you to connect your smartphone to your car, allowing access to your favorite apps like music, messaging, calling, and more. It also sports voice recognition, climate control, and more--all right at your fingertips. 

The CR-V offers similar features with its available multimedia system, but it's not nearly as intuitive or user-friendly as the SYNC® 3 system. Another feature you won't find in the Honda CR-V is Ford+Alexa. Available in the Escape, this feature uses Amazon's cloud-based voice service to provide you with the ultimate way to stay connected. From traffic information to Amazon Prime shopping, you won't have to wait at home to get on with your day--it pairs with your smart home device and calendar, as well!

Learn more about the Ford Escape's interior.

Ford vs Honda: Safety Systems

It's not hard to find standard driving aids in progressive vehicles within the industry nowadays. Both the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V come equipped with a suite of intuitive driver-assisting technologies that elevate confidence and keep you, your passengers, and others safe while on the road.

In the 2020 Ford Escape, every trim is outfitted with Ford Co-Pilot360™. This helps keep you aware of what is around you. It will even lend a hand with braking and steering assistance when you need it the most, with safety features like:

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
• BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert
• Rear View Camera
• Evasive Steering Assist
• Lane-Keeping System
• Voice-Activated Navigation
• Auto High-Beam Headlamps

The Honda also makes a similar suite of driving aids standard in their Honda Sensing™ system. Though it has comparable features--like collision mitigation and a lane keeping system--it only offers four features compared to the seven found in the Ford model.

Additionally, if you want extra assistance with blind spots, you'll have to purchase a higher trim.

2020 Ford Escape vs Honda CR-V: Verdict

After our Ford Escape vs. Honda CR-V comparison, the 2020 Escape emerges victorious. If you want to learn about everything the Escape has to offer, you need to experience it for yourself.

Get behind the wheel at Fred Beans Ford of Mechanicsburg, a great place to find the Escape near Mechanicsburg, Carlisle, and Harrisburg. Our friendly team stands ready to offer all the help and knowledge you need to determine whether the Escape is right for you.

Contact us to schedule your test drive today!

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