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 2020, the Santa Fe lineup receives minor updates that mainly include reshuffled content. The base SE and mid-level SEL models add a standard Rear Occupant Alert that reminds owners to check the back seat. The SEL also gets more standard driver assists (blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and more). All SEL models with the Convenience package now have wireless charging for phones. The top-tier Limited model now has premium doorsills, dark-chrome exterior trim, and a new Blind-View Monitor.
Pros Excellent value versus rivals, enjoyable to drive daily, eminently practical cabin.
Cons Not particularly quick, ho-hum interior design and materials, mediocre fuel economy.
The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe ranked #2 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Hyundai Santa Fe has a score of 8.5 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 21 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Comfortable ride Good fuel economy Quality interior Lots of easy-to-use tech features
Cons Underwhelming base engine Rivals handle better Less cargo space than some competitors
The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.Enhanced blind-spot safety tech now standard on Limited trim.Minor revisions to feature availability.Ultimate top trim is gone.
Pros Abundant standard features for the money High-quality interior materials Generous warranty coverage Several standard and optional active safety features
Cons Base 2.4-liter engine's power and mpg are subpar View out of the rear side is blocked by wide roof pillars Sharp bumps can transmit harshness and road noise into the cabin
