Whether you’re shopping for a fuel-savvy commuter or a comfy explorer, small crossovers like the 2020 Ford Escape and Honda CR-V have a lot to offer. To decide which model is right for you, check out Lunghamer Ford’s side-by-side comparison guide.
Cabin Features: 2020 Ford Escape
When you’re shopping the compact crossover segment, you’ve got modern comfort and technology on your mind. The newly redesigned Escape impresses on both fronts. Seating is supportive and roomy. Updates for 2020 include sliding second-row seats, which improve both passenger comfort and cargo utility. And you’ll love Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system, which is easy to use and includes complete smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technology.
Inside the Honda CR-V, there’s also a lot to love. This modern crossover offers roomy seating with plenty of adjustments, making it easy to find your own personal comfort zone. We also like how the infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, some of the infotainment menus are somewhat unintuitive, making the system less friendly than Ford’s version.
Standard Safety: 2020 Ford Escape
When it comes to high-tech driver safety aids, the newly redesigned Escape truly shines. Every trim model comes standard with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety aids, a bundle that helps you detect danger with features like lane keeping assistance, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert.
Back on the Honda CR-V, you’ll find that some—but not all—safety aids are standard equipment. The standard Honda Sensing suite of driver aids includes, for example, automatic emergency braking and road departure mitigation. However, if you want features like blind-spot warning or automatic high beam headlights, you’re going to have to pay extra for them.
Sporty Cruising: 2020 Ford Escape
When you’re shopping for a fun-loving performance, the Ford Escape will definitely attract your attention. Unlike the CR-V, Ford’s compact crossover offers two engine options, allowing shoppers to upgrade to a sportier performance. With 250 horses and 280 pound-feet of torque, the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine will add some fun-loving spirit to your daily drive.
As we mentioned, every Honda CR-V comes with the same powertrain, a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission. The CR-V is tuned more for efficiency than athleticism, though, and its 190 horses and 179 pound-feet of torque won’t beat the Escape in a race.
Thrifty Driving: 2020 Honda CR-V
Of the two, it’s the CR-V that’s the thriftiest. With front-wheel drive, Honda’s compact crossover is EPA-rated for 30 mpg combined (28 city/34 highway mpg).
However, the 2020 Ford Escape does an admirable job of balancing its sporty performance with an efficient ride. Depending on equipment, Ford’s crossover earns up to 24 mpg combined (21/29 mpg).
The 2020 Honda CR-V might set you up with a fuel-efficient ride, but it’s the 2020 Ford Escape that really delivers the best day-to-day experience. To see exactly what we mean, visit us at Lunghamer Auto Group and test-drive the fully redesigned Escape today! We’re proud to serve Michigan’s Lakes Region, Perry, and Owosso.