The 2020 Ford Escape and Buick Encore are comparable five seat compact SUVs. Both have Front Wheel Drive and All-Wheel Drive options, so how do you determine which is the better option for you? Our team at Keystone Ford in Chambersburg, PA understand how challenging this decision can be. Here is a helpful comparison to aid in your decision.
Space
The Escape surpasses the Encore in passenger and cargo volume. With a total of 104 cubic feet passenger volume, a maximum of 65.4 cubic feet of cargo space and 37.5 cubic feet of rear cargo space, the Escape takes the win for this category. The Encore’s 92.8 cubic feet in passenger volume, 48.4 cubic feet maximum cargo space and 18.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seat, doesn’t begin to compete with what the Escape offers.
Engine Capability
The Escape’s standard engine is a 1.5L EcoBoost with Auto Start-Stop technology and is coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine gets up to 181 horsepower and 190 lb. ft. torque, which is substantially more impressive then even the upgraded engine in the Encore that only produces up to 155 horsepower and 172 lb. ft. torque. The Escape’s available 2.0L EcoBoost engine comes with Auto Start-Stop and SelectShift® technology and includes an upgraded 8-speed transmission. This available SelectShift® feature offers the convenience of an automatic transmission or the sporty feel of a manual, whichever suits you best. This upgraded engine can produce up to 250 horsepower and 280 lb. ft. torque, which proves to be the most superior option between all the Escape’s and Encore’s engines. However, the Encore’s upgraded EcoTec 1.3L Turbo engine does offer an available 9-speed transmission.
The Escape is also more capable when it comes to towing capacity. With up to 3,500 lbs. towing capacity, the Escape easily passes the Encore’s maximum of 1,500 lb. towing capacity.
The Escape is also unique in that it offers two hybrid engine options which can get up to 44 mpg City / 37 mpg Highway, making it a huge money saving advantage over the Encore.
Both vehicles come with various forms of All-Wheel Drive systems making both acceptable choices in the off-road realm. However, the Escape has several different drive modes allowing for more control in any driving condition. These include; Eco Mode, Sport Mode, Normal Mode, Slippery Mode and Deep Snow/Sand Mode. The Escape also comes standard with front and rear skid plates, which are not offered on the Encore.
Infotainment
Both vehicles come with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and Wi-Fi Hotspot capabilities.
Ford and Buick both offer similar connectivity apps which feature things like remote start/stop, remote lock/unlock, remote start, fuel levels and mileage. However, where Buick’s myBuick app comes with a service plan cost, Ford offers their FordPass Connect™ with no strings attached. Along with easy remote access to the vehicle, the Escape’s available SYNC® 3 infotainment system is making it easier to control the interior of your vehicle as well. With an easier-to-control capacitive touchscreen, controlling your infotainment will be as easy as operating your smartphone. The Escape also offers a 12.3 Full Digital Instrument Cluster versus the more standard analog designed instrument cluster in the Encore.
The Escape also has new WAZE traffic technology providing real-time alerts about accidents, traffic jams and any current road hazards, streamlining every drive you take.
Where the Encore has an available Bose 7-speaker sound system, the Escape offers a more impressive 10-speaker B&O sound system.
Comfort / Convenience
Both vehicles have many comfort and convenience features which make each drive impressive. The Encore offers a standard Moonroof, which is not offered on the Escape. However, the Escape does have an available Panoramic Vista Roof® making every drive a bit more enjoyable in comparison to the single panel moonroof in the Encore.
You will also find an available Hands-free, Foot Activated Liftgate in both vehicles.
Conclusion
Although both vehicles are comparable in many ways, the Escape is the clear winner in this match up. With improved cargo space, added infotainment, connectivity, and convenience features, it truly is the complete package when it comes to your new family vehicle.
Keystone Ford
Chambersburg, PA
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Ford Dealership