When looking for smaller crossover SUVs there are many options available on the market. The 2023 Ford Escape and the 2023 Honda CRV have probably been a couple of the ones you have seen while shopping around. While these are both great vehicles this in depth guide will look at the similarities and differences between the two.
Key Takeaways:
- Ford and Honda have both emphasized the “roomier” compact SUV that have both undergone some design changes from the previous years.
- There are hybrid engine options available for these two vehicles giving you a variety of engines to choose from.
- Ford’s redesign of the new 2023 Ford Escape will help you to stay connected in the world and always be in touch when you need to be.
Available Powertrains:
The four different engine options that are available in the Ford Escape enable you to choose what sort of power you want. There are also two hybrid options: one is a standard hybrid setup while the other is a new plug-in hybrid powertrain. With all of these engine options mated to an eight speed automatic transmission you will be sure to get where you need to go.
2023 Ford Escape Engine Options:
- 1.5 liter three cylinder engine (181 horsepower, 190 pounds of torque)
- 2.0 liter EcoBoost engine (250 horsepower, 280 pounds of torque)
- 2.5 liter Inline 4 hybrid engine (200 horsepower, 150 pounds of torque)
- Plug-In hybrid 2.5 liter inline 4 engine (221 horsepower, 155 pounds of torque)
The Honda team also produced its compact SUV with a hybrid option, however, unlike Ford’s four different options to choose from there are only two engine options for the new 2023 Honda CRVs. These vehicles come with a CVT transmission that has been upgraded from previous years and can handle its own.
2023 Honda CRV Engine Options:
- 1.5 liter gas engine (190 horsepower, 179 pounds of torque)
- 2.0 liter hybrid with two motors ( 204 horsepower, 247 pound of torque)
In each vehicle, the smaller engine options produce an impressive amount of power and the hybrid options will give you great gas mileage both in town and on the highway. Many of the lower trim levels of the Ford Escape come standard with front wheel drive, with an available all wheel drive seen in the higher level of trims. This is similar to the Honda CRV as the two lower trim levels have standard front wheel drive and the upper trim levels will have their all wheel drive setup.
Interior and Technology Options:
Ford promotes their roomier interior and cargo space for those who are on the go and need to utilize this room for passengers and gear alike. With many different options available the 2023 Ford Escape will be sure to make your everyday travel and road trips more comfortable.
2023 Ford Escape Interior Features:
- 6.4 cu ft. cargo area
- Sliding 60/40 split rear bench seat
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Available 13.2 inch touchscreen display
- SYNC 4 technology to keep you connected
Honda has many interior features as well that will be available to give you the best driving experience possible. With an emphasis on comfortability that the Honda CRV has there has been a few design changes for this new year as well.
2023 Honda CRV Interior Features:
- Digital Gauge Cluster
- Honeycomb inspired interior trim pieces
- Drivers and passenger seats designed to reduce driving fatigue
- Available 9.0 inch touch screen with wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay
- 36 cu ft. behind the second row of seats
Which is the Best Option?
While the new Honda CRV has some impressive features and can handle quite a bit, the Ford Escape has a lot more to offer. Between the two the 2023 Ford Escape seems like the best option. With four available drivetrains, you can get the perfect configuration for your needs. They offer two gas engines and two hybrid setups which is double the amount that Honda is offering in their compact SUV. On top of this Ford has been sure to give great interior features that allow you to always have the space you need on your trips, whether those trips are short or long.