The new 2023 Ford Escape is a good sized crossover SUV that has different engine size options as well as hybrid options to save on gas. Ford Escapes have been around for a while but in 2023 got some great modern features. Honda CRVs are also a great vehicle in the crossover segment. Many may ask which is the best option? Our comparison guide will help you decide which one is for you: the 2023 Ford Escape or the 2023 Honda CRV.
Quick Specifications
Starting Price (subject to change):
- 2023 Ford Escape: Price starting at $28,995
- 2023 Honda CR-V: Price starting at $32,335
Engine Size:
- 2023 Ford Escape: The Ford Escape offers models with a 1.5 liter turbocharged, 2.0 liter and 2.5 liter engine.
- 2023 Honda CR-V: The Honda CRV offers a 1.5 liter that is turbocharged, and a 2.0 liter engine in some of their higher trims.
HorsePower:
- 2023 Ford Escape:165 to 250 horsepower.
- 2023 Honda CR-V: 190 to 204 horsepower.
Gas Mileage:
- 2023 Ford Escape: 27 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, 30 mpg combined.
- 2023 Honda CR-V: 28 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, 30 miles combined.
Seating Capacity:
- 2023 Ford Escape: The Ford Escape can seat a total of 5 passengers.
- 2023 Honda CR-V: The Honda CRV can seat a total of 5 passengers as well.
Towing Capacity:
- 2023 Ford Escape: 1,500 to 3,500 pounds total towing capacity.
- 2023 Honda CR-V: 1,500 pounds.
Technical Difference Between the Two Vehicles
The differences are going to be most apparent between these two vehicles in their electronics, safety features, and navigation features. In the Ford Escape you will see a standard navigation system in all of the trim levels, not so in the Honda CR-V where a navigation system would be a packaged item you have to add on. The Honda CR-V does come with many safety features and drivers assist even in the lower trim levels.
The entry level Ford Escapes provide an 8.0 infotainment center and can be upgraded to a larger 13.2 inch infotainment screen depending on the trim level. The Honda CR-V comes standard with a 7.0 infotainment screen. The higher level EX-L and Sport Touring trims will see a 9.0 inch screen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Hybrid options for the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V
The two different hybrid options for these two vehicles are some important trims to look at when comparing them. The Ford Escape will have a stand alone Plug-In Hybrid. So instead of building a hybrid trim off of the existing trims it will be in its own class. The Honda line up on the other hand does build hybrid systems off of the existing trims that they have. This is seen in the Honda CR-V Sport Hybrid and the Honda Sport Touring Hybrid. The Ford Escape Hybrid will see a 2.5 plug-in engine whereas the Honda will feature a 2.0 hybrid engine. The highest level trim from Honda, the Sport Touring Hybrid will also be an all wheel drive option.
So…Which Should You Choose?
While these two vehicles are quite similar there are some very important differences to recognize. The Ford Escape base models may have one less cylinder, however, they also produce about the same horsepower that the Honda CRV is producing. The Ford Escape has options and upgrades to increase the towing capacity from 1,500 pounds all the way up to 3,500 pounds. When it comes down to it, looking at the price, availability and options, the Ford Escape is the best choice for a great family vehicle.