With their punchy power and traffic-jam-friendly dimensions, the 2019 Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4 get you around in style. These compact crossovers are also known for their sporty good looks and modern creature comforts. With so much in common, the Escape and RAV4 actually make it really difficult to choose between them. Luckily, our comparison guide has the answers you seek.
Plushest Creature Comforts: 2019 Ford Escape
Of the pair, the 2019 Escape has the most in common with luxury crossovers (though the Ford lacks the steep price). Inside, even the base trim has a nice fit and finish. As you climb the Escape trim levels, you'll find more and more luxury-like the leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather-trimmed seats. Whether you're travelling through a snow flurry or a blazing desert, the Escape treats you to a steady temperate zone with heated seats and dual-zone climate control.
Inside, the newly redesigned Toyota RAV4 definitely offers some modern perks. The RAV4 can match a lot of the Escape's luxury options, including an illuminating panoramic sunroof. However, Toyota falls short of offering real leather upholstery, with only simulated leather upholstery on the top RAV4 trim levels.
Best Driver Aids: 2019 Ford Escape
These days, just about every new vehicle offers the full spectrum of driver safety aids. The Escape and RAV4 aren't exceptions. Both help you avoid danger, compliments of items like forward emergency braking and blind-spot warning. However, Ford's versions of these safety features are our favorite. They do the best job of alerting you to danger without overdoing it. The Toyota systems, unfortunately, can be a bit overexcited, sometimes alerting you situations that aren't exactly problematic.
Punchiest Power: 2019 Ford Escape
Zoom around in style in the Ford Escape. All three engine options are spunky, and their varying levels of power let you tailor your ride toward greater fuel mileage or streamlined power. At the top of the heap is Titanium's turbo four-cylinder engine, pumping out 245 horses and 275 pound-feet of torque for all-out athleticism. The Escape's optional all-wheel drive system is another boon, especially for driving enthusiasts. This powertrain adds extra sportiness to its crossover's performance.
Under every 2019 Toyota RAV4 hood, you'll find the same engine. This 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine isn't as powerful as the Escape's top-of-the-line engine. But it's still pretty quick, with 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. If you've got dirt roads and icy pavement to conquer, the all-wheel-drive RAV4 is more than capable.
Most Towing Muscle: It's a Tie!
Here, both the 2019 Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4 impress with their sporty capabilities. Depending on powertrain and equipment, each crossover can tow max loads of either 1,500 pounds or 3,500 pounds.
To tow 3,500 pounds in the RAV4, you need the top-of-the-line Adventure trim model. The Escape offers a similar scenario. In the upscale Escape Titanium, you can add the uprated tow package to create the most capable version of this crossover.
Though the new RAV4 has a lot to offer, this Toyota can't compete with the 2019 Ford Escape. Ford's compact crossover puts a layer of luxury on your daily drive, from its smooth, refined performance to upscale comfort options. We think you'll agree that it's the ultimate choice for everything from grocery-getting to cross-country road-tripping.