2021 Ford Escape vs. 2021 Honda CR-V: a matter of choice

When we talk about the Ford Escape and the Honda CR-V, we're talking about two of the most popular models in the compact SUV category.

If we look at the timing of the two products, we have to look at 2017 for the CR-V, 2020 for the Escape. This gives the Ford model an obvious advantage, because at the rate things are going in the market, you don't want to fall behind in the industry.

The CR-V is now falling behind the Ford Escape. Here's why Ford's model is now ahead of its Honda rival.

Four Powertrains

The Honda CR-V is offered with only one engine, a 1.5-litre turbo 4-cylinder. This engine does the job, but the buyer has no options. At Ford, it's the other way around, and anyone interested in an Escape is faced with four options. FOUR!

A 1.5-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder, a 2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that's much more powerful than the CR-V's mill (250 horsepower versus 190), and two hybrid versions powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder. The second electrified model is rechargeable and suggests a range of about 60 kilometers.

Honda is far from being able to offer this kind of proposal.

Fuel Economy

While the Honda CR-V's engine does well in terms of fuel economy, it unfortunately can't compete with Ford's offer, especially the one guaranteed by the hybrid approach. With this variant, you'll average about 5.8 L/100 km in the city/highway combination; you won't do better than 7.5 L/100 km with the CR-V.

The Ride

If the Honda CR-V's ride is reassuring and comfort-oriented, the Ford Escape's is engaging. As soon as you grab the wheel of this model, you feel in full control of the situation. This SUV is agile, and the steering feel gives us an excellent report on road conditions. And when you have to tackle a winding road, you do so with confidence. With the CR-V, you moderate your transport.

And, of course, the sportiness is doubled, as is the fun with the 250-horsepower engine variant. You really don't feel like you're driving an SUV with this one.

And finally, if you have loads to pull, you'll be able to do so more easily with the Escape. The limit is 1500 pounds for Honda. On the Ford side, it varies by model, but it's higher with the 1.5-litre engine, and with the 2.0-litre, it can go up to 3500 pounds with the towing package.

After reading the above, one thing seems clear: you can't rely on a model's reputation alone. It's obvious that the most varied and interesting offer is from Ford.