In a market often saturated with small SUVs, two models consistently find new and innovative ways to rise to the top of their class: the 2018 Ford Escape and Subaru Forester. These adaptable, family-friendly vehicles provide the type of efficiency and state-of-the-art technology that's perfect to take on both the daily commute and long, open highway.
At Fuller Ford, we're committed to helping drivers throughout Cincinnati, Newport, and Covington, KY, get behind the wheel of the best vehicles that fit their lifestyle. That's why we created this helpful comparison, putting these two vehicles in a head-to-head battle in three important areas: performance, interior design, and active safety. Continue reading to see which small SUV takes the top spot!
2018 Ford Escape vs Subaru Forester: Performance
The 2018 Escape provides four distinct trim levels with three engine options to fit your driving style. The base S trim comes equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that provides 168 horsepower with 170 lb-ft of torque. A 1.5-liter and an impressive 2.0-liter EcoBoost® engine that packs 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque are also available on higher trim levels.
The Escape's power is seamlessly controlled by a six-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission which provides the driver with extra control when driving in Sport mode but without the clutch. Additional standard features like Curve Control, Electric Power-Assisted Steering, and AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ all work in sync to provide an exceptionally smooth and responsive ride. When fully equipped, the Escape provides up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity.
Meanwhile, the Subaru Forester offers its one suite of trims with a choice between two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces up to 250 horsepower with 258 lb-ft of torque. Drivers can choose between either a manual or a Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission.
While the 2018 Escape gives drivers the option between front-wheel or all-wheel-drive, the Forester only comes with an all-wheel-drivetrain that's supplemented by an X-MODE® system, which helps optimize traction and reduce road friction. When fully equipped, the Forester has a max towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.
2018 Ford Escape vs Subaru Forester: Interior Design & Tech
You'll find both models provide an airy and spacious cabin with comfortable seating for up to five adult passengers. Head- and legroom are also abundant; perfect for families who like the ability to spread out over a long road-trip. Cargo space is also similar, while the Escape's 60/40 split-fold flat rear seat back makes loading and moving bulky items, like that new dresser from the store, a breeze.
The 2018 Escape stays on the cutting-edge by providing a full suite of innovative tech and convenience features to keep you and passengers comfortable and connected, including:
- Steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, manual tilt, and telescoping steering column
- Three power points spread throughout the interior
- Center floor console with media bin, including a USB port and auxiliary power
- SYNC® Enhanced Voice Recognition Communication and Entertainment System
- Rearview Camera
- Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control
- SYNC® Connect
- Voice-Activated Touchscreen Navigation System with Pinch-to-Zoom Capability, SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link®
Plus, features like a Panoramic Vista Roof® and Intelligent Access with Push Button Start are also available.
For its part, the Forester offers its own set of unique and convenient interior features to help drivers like:
- a STARLINK™ 6.2-inch multimedia touchscreen
- rear-vision camera
- six audio speakers
- an overhead console with dual map lights and sunglasses storage
- power rear gate
- a dual-zone automatic climate control system
2018 Ford Escape vs Subaru Forester: Active Safety Features
Above all, the safety of you and your passengers is the number priority, and both models offer a number of advanced features to help keep you out of harm's way.
The 2018 Ford Escape comes equipped with a Personal Safety System™ with dual-stage driver and front-passenger airbags, along with a reverse sensing system that helps you easily navigate in and out of narrow spaces. Other active safety features include: Brake Assist, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Auto High-Beam Headlamps, SOS Post-Crash Alert System™, and Bi-Xenon HID Headlamps.
Likewise, the Forester offers its own set of active safety devices to help keep you out of harm's way, like: Vehicle Dynamics Control, 4-wheel antilock braking system, Brake Assist, and daytime running lights.
Which Takes the Top Spot?
While this comparison has shown that both small SUVs provide drivers a whole list of notable qualities and features, at the end of the day, it's the 2018 Ford Escape that clearly comes out on top in every category.
For drivers near Cincinnati, Newport, and Covington interested in taking a closer look for themselves, stop by Fuller Ford or go online and schedule a test drive today!