Honda CR-V vs. Ford Escape Review

Utility
Towing capacity results show the 2010 Honda CR-V and Ford Escape to be even at 1,500 pounds, but the CR-V pulls ahead with 5.5 more cubic feet of luggage space and seven more cubic feet of total cargo room.

Performance
A 180-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine powers the 2010 Honda CR-V, while the Ford Escape offers a 171-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 240-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6. The Honda CR-V comes with a five-speed automatic, whereas the Ford Escape offers a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy
Fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg city and 27-28 mph highway are achieved by the CR-V. The Ford Escape delivers 18-22 mpg city and 23-28 mpg highway ratings, so the Escape has the edge in max city fuel economy, while its best highway rating matches the CR-V. The Ford Escape generates 6.9 to 9.2 metric tons of CO2 per year (lowest ratings resulting from using E85 fuel), and the CR-V produces 7.7 to 8.0 metric tons annually.

Technology
In the audio department, the Escape offers more optional stereo watts but does not match the CR-V with a six-CD changer. The Escape offers a TV with DVD entertainment system as an option, and that you cannot get on a CR-V. Both have available navigation systems with voice commands. The golden goose eggs for the Escape are Ford’s SYNC multimedia system with personalized traffic reports and the electronic parking assist system, the latter which utilizes electric power steering to actually steer the Escape into a parking spot for you.

Safety
Both SUV’s have antilock brakes and a stability control system, while the CR-V includes brake assist and the Escape does not. The Escape achieves Five-Star front- and side-impact ratings from NHTSA, while the CR-V delivers Five-Star front ratings and side impact data is not available.

Other
Base models from the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape come similarly equipped, while the CR-V offers more room and the Escape offers more power and transmission choices with matching fuel economy and at a lower price. The Escape takes the lead with its SYNC and parking assist technologies making it feel more luxurious and capable.