2020 Ford Escape vs 2020 Mazda CX-5: The power of choice

Picking out a compact SUV can be a difficult undertaking. No segment is busier in Canada with new or updated entries showing up on a regular basis. Despite the ocean of possibilities, one SUV is not like the others. Ford long ago figured out that consumers enjoy options and selecting exactly what it is they want in a vehicle. The Ford Escape is about choice so let’s see how it stacks against the Mazda CX-5.

Unlike most other small SUVs, the Ford Escape is available in numerous trims along with a complete array of powertrains. From frugal to powerful, and a combination of both, the Escape can be specified in one of four powertrains. They include efficient hybrid and a plug-in hybrid versions, or torque-rich turbocharged 1.5-litre or powerful 250-horsepower 2.0-litre EcoBoost engines, both mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. As for the Mazda, the standard engine is a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine. In the higher trims, a turbocharged 250-horsepower 2.5-litre engine is available. The included automatic transmission is a 6-speed unit.

The Ford Escape hybrid’s 200-horsepower is extremely fuel efficient, even with the available AWD system. With a combined fuel consumption average of only 5.9L/100 km, the Escape bests the AWD CX-5’s 186-horsepower engine which consumes an average of 8.8L/100 km.

While both SUVs are well equipped from the base models on, Ford ups the ante with an impressive array of standard safety features from the get-go. Unlike the CX-5, the Escape is given a helpful Lane-Keeping system and auto high-beam headlamps. In upper trims, the Escape can include other innovative technology features such as an available 12.3" digital instrument cluster and Active Park Assist, neither of which are offered in the Mazda.

The Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5 are plenty roomy with generous helpings of trunk and passenger room. Capabilities are crucial in this segment and that also involves towing capacity. The Escape can tow a maximum of 1,587 kg. (3,498 lbs.) while the CX-5 is limited to 907 kg. (2,000 lbs.).

In light of all this, the Ford Escape is not only better equipped than the Mazda CX-5 but its potential is far greater in all respects. With the Escape, efficiency, capability and performance can all be obtained in one single vehicle.