The Ford Escape and the Toyota Rav4 are two of the more popular compact SUVs’, not necessarily for their appearance, but more so for their price and fuel efficiency. In today’s economy both of these vehicles are perfect choices for those who want to avoid increasing fuel prices. However, as similar as these two vehicles may appear, the Ford Escape comes equipped with new features that make Ford’s compact SUV better than its competition.

Since its introduction to the automotive industry the Ford Escape has been one of America’s best-selling compact SUVs’. The Ford Escape successfully combines the four-wheel-drive capabilities of your traditional SUV with the size and driving characteristics of a mid-size car. “Ford’s compact crossover has its strengths, including an excellent six-speed automatic transmission, comfortable passenger accommodations, and the availability of a gas/electric hybrid model” says the Auto Press at U.S. News Rankings and Reviews. If you’re in search of a comfortable, but versatile SUV with light-duty off-road capabilities, the Ford Escape fits the description perfectly.

Neither the Rav4 nor Ford Escape disappoint when it comes to fuel efficiency. The two are pretty even in terms of their estimated fuel economy ratings as the Escape gets 18-22 mpg in the city and 23-28 mpg on the highway while the Rav4 gets between 19-22 mpg in the city and 26-28 mpg on the highway. With mileage of this sort, both SUV’s rank at the top of their class in fuel efficiency and continues to be a determining factor in sales.

While fuel efficiency is relatively the same with both vehicles, there is a difference in interior space. The Ford Escape offers two rows of seats for up to five occupants with extra foot space. Consumer Guide goes on to say “Knee clearance and foot space are well above the class norm, helped by a flat floor. Supportive and well-contoured [rear] seat is wide enough for short-trip three-adult comfort”. Now let’s take a look at the Rav4. The Rav4 offers three rows of seats for up to 7 people; however, the third row seat is optional (not included in base model) and can quickly inflate the Rav4’s affordable base price.

The RAV4 has remained relatively unchanged since 2009 while the Ford Escape introduces the MyKey and Auto Park technology to its list of features. MyKey allows parents to set electronic limits for vehicle speed and stereo volume. This is a safety precaution for those parents who have teenager drivers because young drivers have a tendency to speed and listen to loud music behind the wheel. Also new to the Escape is Auto Park. You may be familiar with the Auto Park feature from the recent LS 460 model from Lexus. Auto Park gives the car control over steering during parallel-parking maneuvers. We’ve tested it and to our surprise the Auto Park feature functions better than the one found in the more expensive Lexus LS 460.

At first glimpse, it may seem like the Ford Escape and Rav4 are similar to one another as both vehicles just so happen to be top-selling compact SUV’s with similarities in fuel efficiency and price. However, reviewers warn that third-row seat options as well as the option for a V6 engine can quickly inflate the Rav4’s otherwise affordable base price. All in all, the Ford Escape is the better purchase because of its ability to combine four-wheel drive capabilities with characteristics of a mid-size car and still maintain fuel efficiency that ranks at the top of its class.

Are you looking to purchase a Ford Escape? Come to Dahl Ford in Davenport, IA for the largest selections of Ford vehicles. Dahl Ford is located at 1310 East Kimberly Davenport, IA 52807. Call (563) 391-2600 and schedule an appointment with a member of our professional sales staff who are here to help you find the Ford vehicle of your dreams!