Choosing between the 2020 Ford Escape and Jeep Cherokee can be complicated, especially since both crossovers deliver the goods with rugged style, modern creature comforts, and impressive fuel economy. Our comparison guide is here to help you select the model that’s best suited to your kind of driving.
Cabin Style and Comfort
Cabin Style and Comfort: 2020 Ford Escape
Like you’d expect from just about any crossover in this popular segment, the 2020 Ford Escape is roomy and comfortable, with lots of space for your stuff. But it delivers much more than spacious comfort. You’ll fall in love with the newly redesigned cabin and its classy interior design. Upscale materials and an ergonomic layout lend themselves to stylish commuting.
When it comes to spacious seating and lasting comfort, the Jeep Cherokee also puts forth a good effort. This Jeep might not be as fancy as the new Escape, but it maintains basic comforts – like cabin temperature and seating support – very well. You can also count on this rugged crossover to smooth over any bumps in the road, reinforcing overall ride comfort.
Cutting-Edge
Cutting-Edge Tech Features: 2020 Ford Escape
The newly redesigned Escape also won us over with its tech lineup. In every trim model, you’ll find the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety aids. Features like pre-collision detection and automatic emergency braking help you avoid unforeseen problems on the road. Blind-spot warning with cross-traffic alert and lane keeping assistance are also standard.
Ford’s infotainment features also impress. All but the base Escape model come standard with Ford’s excellent Sync 3 infotainment system. Sync 3 includes a crisp, color 8-inch touchscreen and Bluetooth and USB smartphone connectivity. Simply plug your smartphone into the system to use its Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features, which display apps on the central touchscreen for easy access.
The Jeep Cherokee is neck-and-neck with the Escape in the infotainment department. The Uconnect system also impresses with its quick-acting touchscreen and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. However, the Cherokee doesn’t come standard with the same level of safety. If you want systems like forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, you have to pay extra. Indeed, you must upgrade to upper trim models like the Limited, Trailhawk, or Overland, and then add the optional Technology package.
Affordable Commuting
Affordable Commuting: 2020 Ford Escape
Rugged Performance
Rugged Performance: 2020 Jeep Cherokee
With its above-average off-roading capabilities, the 2020 Jeep Cherokee puts adventure on the agenda. In the small crossover segment, you won’t find another crossover that offers advanced all-wheel drive technology, all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, and suspension specially tuned for off-road performance. The Cherokee also puts its powertrain to work, with towing capabilities that reach 4,500 pounds.
Away from the pavement, the Escape isn’t quite as capable. However, this Ford crossover can hold its own on a dirt trail, thanks to its optional all-wheel drive system. The Escape can also haul a boat or a couple of Jet Skis, with towing capabilities of up to 3,500 pounds.
The 2020 Jeep Cherokee is undeniably adventurous, but the 2020 Ford Escape won our vote. Ford’s newly redesigned crossover is spacious, comfortable, and high-tech. You’ll love both its sporty performance and its modern efficiency.