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
For 2021 Optional diesel-powered engine is no longer offered.Minor changes to standard and optional feature availability.
Pros Comfortable and upscale interior Touchscreen interfaces are intuitive and easy to use
Cons Price with options runs higher than average for the class 1.5-liter turbocharged engine is disappointing Less cargo space behind the back seat than in most competitors
GMC hasn't made any big changes to the Terrain for 2021, but it has given the compact SUV a boost in the driver-assistance department. The Pro Safety Plus package now comes standard across the lineup and includes automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more.
Pros Spacious cabin and cargo area, efficient powertrains, brisk acceleration with the optional turbo four.
Cons A few cheap interior bits, annoying shifter buttons, expensive compared with class-leading SUVs.
The 2021 GMC Terrain's #11 ranking is based on its score within the Compact SUVs category. Currently the GMC Terrain has a score of 7.8 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 33 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Roomy cabin Good fuel economy Refined ride
Cons High starting price Sluggish base engine Small cargo capacity
