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
The 2020 Jeep Wrangler is an American SUV icon and off-road wonder, but not without compromise.
Pros Iconic looks Improved interior New turbodiesel Unquestionable off-road ability Two- or four-door body styles
Cons Expensive in almost any trim Rough everyday ride Cramped rear seat Safety is unknown
The 2020 Jeep Wrangler comes with four wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual.New V6 mild hybrid engine option on Sahara Unlimited trim.New Altitude variant for Sport and Sahara models.Moab trim discontinued.
Pros Unrelentingly capable off-road Rugged Jeep character Extensive customization options from the factory and aftermarket
Cons Steering is slow and feels loose, especially on the Rubicon trim Lots of wind and tire noise at highway speeds Less cargo space than some conventional crossovers
The 2020 Jeep Wrangler is what the Jeep brand is all about—with roots that date back to the original World War II–era military vehicle—and its off-road capability borders on amazing. While it looks much like the first-generation Jeep that was created to support our troops, it has evolved into a one-of-kind four-wheel-drive vehicle, with tech and luxury to match its off-road chops. It offers everything from air conditioning to leather.
Pros Throwback styling, heroic off-road capability, you can take off the doors and roof.
Cons Tight cabin, lots of wind noise, trucklike compared with other SUVs.
