The 2021 Ford Escape's #10 ranking is based on its score within the Compact SUVs category. Currently the Ford Escape has a score of 7.9 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Good cargo capacity User-friendly infotainment system Well-balanced ride and handling
Cons Cheap cabin materials Transmission sometimes hunts for the right gear
Ford has expanded the availability of the hybrid powertrain to the SE and SEL trims for 2021; it's now standard on the top-spec Titanium model. Elsewhere, adaptive cruise control and a traffic-sign recognition feature join the optional Co-Pilot360 Plus package; a hands-free power liftgate and memory settings for the driver's seat and exterior mirrors are now part of the Technology package; and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, a keyless-entry keypad, and LED exterior lighting are now on the list of features in the Convenience package. A new 19-inch wheel design is optional on the Titanium model, and a Class II Trailer Tow package is now available on Escapes with the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
Pros Handsomely styled exterior, multiple powertrain options, safety tech comes standard.
Cons Cheap interior on base models, rough-edged base three-cylinder engine, high starting price.
For 2021 Hybrid powertrain now available on SEL trim.Traffic sign recognition added to models with adaptive cruise control.Minor shuffling of trim and package features.
Pros Roomy and comfortable seating Smooth ride quality Easy-to-use controls Available hybrid powertrain that gets around 40 mpg
Cons Transmission's abrupt shifts Lackluster handling
Pros Comfortable and upscale interior Optional engines offer efficiency and power MyLink user interface is intuitive and easy to use Extensive list of optional safety features
Cons Midrange trims offer fewer standard safety features than competitors Base 1.5-liter is disappointing all around Less cargo space behind the back seat than most competitors Price with options runs higher than average for the class
The 2019 GMC Terrain is another contender for crossover shoppers’ consideration, but its high price and lack of active safety features keep it on the bench for now.
Pros Handsome exterior shape Composed ride Tony Denali trim has luxury bona fides Smooth 9-speed automatic Apple CarPlay compatibility
Cons Part-time all-wheel drive Diesel adds thousands to bottom line No more sliding second row Active safety features cost extra, on all trims
The 2019 GMC Terrain ranked #11 in Compact SUVs. Currently the GMC Terrain has a score of 8.0 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 28 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Upscale interior Spacious seats Smooth ride Excellent fuel economy
Cons Poor rearward visibility Higher starting price than most competitors
