Trying to Compare the Ford Escape and the Honda CR-V?

By Monaco Ford in Glastonbury

Trying to compare the 2014 Ford Escape and the 2014 Honda CR-V? We can help you out.

Both seat five people, have 4-cylinder engines, and offer optional all-wheel drive.

The 2014 Ford Escape offers one of three engines, each paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The Escape S model comes with a 168-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive. The Escape SE and Titanium models are equipped with a 178-hp 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine from Ford’s EcoBoost family of powerplants. 

The EcoBoost engine also makes additional torque (at lower rpm) compared to the Escape S model’s engine, and can be optioned with all-wheel drive. Another option for the Escape SE and Titanium models is a 240-hp 2.0-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine.

Compare the Ford’s powertrain variety to what Honda offers in the 2014 CR-V. The only engine offered for the Honda is a 185-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine matched to a 5-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional.

In the engine and performance category, US News notes that the Escape has locking rear differential, front wheel drive, a 4-cylinder engine, is supercharged, and is turbocharged. The only categories that get a check for Honda are the front wheel drive and the 4-cylinder engine.

When it comes to safety, Ford offers more safety-related technology to keep you out of trouble in the first place and installs features that can help speed rescue following a collision.

Ford is the big winner when it comes to value. The 2014 Ford Escape is priced lower than the Honda. Plus, since the Escape’s ALG depreciation rating is a respectable four stars, it’s not as though the Honda offers a significant benefit in retaining value over time.

Also consider that the Escape has a better warranty and includes free roadside assistance. These factors, combined with better deals when buying instead of leasing, give Ford the win on value.

Another area where Ford displays strength is with technology. Both crossover SUVs include standard Bluetooth connectivity and a reversing camera. While the Honda also includes Pandora Internet radio and a USB port, the Ford is ultimately offered with greater depth in standard technology by virtue of its Torque Vectoring Control system, SOS Post Crash Alert system, MyKey programmable vehicle safety features, and a 911 Assist service that works whenever a smartphone is paired to the Escape’s Sync technology.

The company’s optional MyFord Touch infotainment is more sophisticated than the optional navigation system that Honda offers for the top-of-the-line CRV EX-L model. Both SUVs are available with dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium audio system, and satellite radio.

Also, the 2014 Ford Escape can be fitted with rain-sensing wipers, Intelligent Access keyless passive entry with push-button starting, a 110-volt power outlet, a SecuriCode keyless entry system, and front and rear parking sensors. Buyers can also opt for a Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, a power tailgate that can be opened by waving a foot underneath the rear bumper and an Active Park Assist system that steers the Escape into a parallel parking space while the driver operates the pedals.

The only unique option offered for the Honda is a DVD rear entertainment system, something that Ford dealers can install inside of an Escape as an accessory. Clearly, the technological advantage goes to Ford.

The Ford delivers better value and greater technological sophistication, far more power from its optional EcoBoost engine, and more variety in mixing and matching equipment.

Monaco Ford is family owned and operated since 1922, currently employing its 4th generation of ownership. The dealership currently has over 80 employees. It has received Ford’s prestigious President’s Award an outstanding 8 times in the past two decades by surpassing all requirements, proving itself as one of Connecticut’s elite dealers. Visit www.monacoford.com for more about the dealership and the inventory. Our cars and our company are reliable and trustworthy. What more could you ask for?