So you’ve got your sights set on either the 2020 Ford Escape or the Ford Explorer. Since these models appeal to slightly different kinds of drivers, our Jones Ford comparison guide is here to walk you through the details. By the end, you’ll have a better idea of which model is right for your lifestyle.
Passenger Space and Comfort
The 2020 Ford Escape is classified as a small crossover, with roomy seating for up to five passengers. It’s a great choice for medium-size families who like to spend a lot of time on the road. Inside, every seat offers generous head- and legroom, as well as nicely contoured cushions that lend themselves to long-term support.
The 2020 Ford Explorer, on the other hand, is a three-row midsize crossover. With maximum seating for up to seven passengers, this Ford crossover is better suited to bigger families. But it, too, makes excellent use of interior space and supplies the same lasting comfort with cushy seats and upscale options, like leather upholstery.
Modern Technology
When it comes to infotainment and high-tech driver aids, the 2020 Ford Escape and Explorer have more in common than not.
The Explorer does come standard with more infotainment features, including the savvy Sync 3 system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. For the Escape, this same technology is standard for all but the base S model.
As you climb both crossovers’ trim levels, you’ll find high-tech extras, including remote engine start and LED headlights.
And both Fords include the Co-Pilot360 package as part of their standard equipment. This bundle of safety aids—including features like lane departure mitigation, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring—helps you keep danger at bay.
Power and Performance
Both of these Ford crossovers aim to please, with sporty engine options and satisfying around-town power. The small Escape comes standard with a 181-horsepower turbocharged three-cylinder engine, which is both peppy and efficient. For more in speed, switch to the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, which increases output with 250 horses.
Under the 2020 Explorer hoods, you’ll find three different engine options. Its base engine, a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, does a great job of getting you up to speed with 300 horses. Optional for the Limited is a hybrid powertrain that adds an electric motor for a total output of 318 horses.
Then there’s the high-performance Explorer ST, which features a 3.0-liter V6 to transform your ride with 400 horses. The top-of-the-line Explorer Platinum trim features this same engine, but with a lower output of 365 horses.
To tow more, you need the 2020 Ford Explorer. As a midsize crossover with bigger, more powerful engine options, the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds. The smaller Escape can’t handle quite as big a boat, but it can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
On-Road Efficiency
As the smaller crossover, the 2020 Ford Escape has major appeal for commuters. Depending on model and powertrain, this sporty crossover earns up to 41 mpg combined (44 city/37 highway mpg).
With its bigger overall size and more capable engine options, the 2020 Ford Explorer isn’t quite as efficient. But, considering the power it delivers, this three-row crossover balances output with fuel economy, earning up to 28 mpg combined (27 city/29 highway mpg).
Now that you can better tell the difference between the 2020 Ford Escape and Explorer, visit us at Jones Ford to test drive one or the other—or both! We’re proud to be your North Charleston Ford dealership.