If you need a compact SUV that's nimble enough to navigate the crowded Cincinnati, Ohio, streets, but tough enough to withstand the Newport, Kentucky, and Covington, Kentucky, winters, the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V both make for a great choice.
We wanted to know which one has more to offer our local drivers, so Fuller Ford compared them side-by-side and found a clear winner.
When you need a vehicle that's up for a challenge, the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V will deliver. They both come with an available smart all-wheel drive (AWD) system.
These systems monitor traction and road conditions, and automatically transfer torque between the front and rear wheels as needed to ensure optimal handling capabilities. The system in the Escape gives you an edge with the All-Wheel Drive disconnect. You can deactivate the system when it's not needed to cruise more efficiently.
Pair this with a powerful engine with a high torque output, and snowy streets become much more manageable. Looking at what's available in these two SUVs, the CR-V offers a maximum torque output of 179 lb-ft with its standard 1.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder engine.
The Escape has a maximum torque output of 190 lb-ft with its similar 1.5L EcoBoost® engine. That means, this model may have a smoother acceleration in treacherous conditions.
The available smart safety and driver-assist features in the Escape and CR-V offer extra peace of mind.
These features include an available Blind Spot Information System that warns you when cars enter your side blind spots, allowing for safer highway merging. They also offer an available Forward Collision Warning System that alerts you to unseen hazards up ahead and may automatically apply the brakes if necessary.
As a bonus, the Escape makes Active Park Assist 2.0 available. It locates a perpendicular or parallel parking spot for you and automatically steers you safely into the space. All you have to do is shift, accelerate, and brake; the Escape will do the rest.
CR-V drivers may have a more difficult time parallel parking on a busy street without this kind of assistive technology available.
It's great when your wish is your car's command, and both the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V include convenience features that feel that way.
For example, on a cold winter morning or hot summer day, use available remote start to get the heat or A/C going ahead of time. This way, the cabin is the perfect temperature when you climb inside.
If you frequently load up your trunk or cargo area, you'll also like the available Hands-Free Liftgate the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V offer. This makes it easy to pack, even with your hands full, by opening the liftgate with a wave of your foot under the back bumper.
They each also have infotainment systems, but the available SYNC® 3 AppLink system comes with the extra benefit of Ford+Alexa. This will give you all the capabilities you enjoy on your Amazon Alexa at home, and gives you access to them in the car as well.
Read more of our Ford Escape reviews
After comparing the Ford Escape vs. Honda CR-V, you may be leaning toward getting an Escape for your commute around Cincinnati, OH, and Newport, KY, and Covington, KY. If you want to get behind the wheel of this SUV, contact Fuller Ford, and we'll make it happen.
Schedule your test drive today!
* Indicates a required field
Fuller Ford Inc
900 W Eighth St
Cincinnati, OH 45203