Engine Options

The heart of any good vehicle is its motor. After all, it’s what gives you the energy to get your adventure started. Since every driver is unique, their needs for power and performance will differ, which is why having more choices matters. The Toyota RAV4 offers just one hybrid engine with no further options. If you want or need something different, Ford has you covered.

The Escape offers four different engines to suit your plans for the future. This includes two combustion and two hybrid options, including a plug-in hybrid model for extreme fuel efficiency. When you’re looking for engineering that’s just right, Ford is the way to go.

Maximum Power

Their standard front-wheel drive systems help provide better fuel efficiency while offering solid traction and predictable handling for most daily driving situations. Still, if you plan on taking things off the asphalt and onto the dirt, you’ll need raw power to get there. Each SUV has available all-wheel drive systems to optimize performance. That said, when it comes to energy, Ford's toughness is where it's at.

Its available 2.0L EcoBoost® engine generates 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, making it a fierce presence for tricky road conditions and off-road adventuring. It easily outpaces the RAV4, which offers a maximum of 236 combined net horsepower with its AWD configuration and 170 lb-ft of torque.

Infotainment on the Go

Staying connected during your travels makes any journey better. Both models let you pair your phone wirelessly through Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for ease of use, and each has an infotainment system connected to it. The Ford Escape, however, goes above and beyond.

SYNC® 4 comes standard on the Ford Escape. This revolutionary Ford-exclusive system takes your voice commands and allows you to control all sorts of features while keeping your focus on the road. It also features Amazon Alexa built-in and an available 13.2-inch capacitive center touchscreen, offering a clearer view than the 10.5-inch or even the available 12.9-inch monitor on the RAV4.

Room for Everyone

Road trips are better when you have friends along for the ride. When everyone can stretch out into their seats and relax, it makes those long hauls on the highway better. Each passenger's own comfort zone is essential, and a roomy cabin interior is the key.

The Ford Escape has an expansive cabin for up to five passengers. It delivers 104 cubic feet of passenger space compared to the 98.9 cubic feet in the RAV4, so everyone can stretch their legs and find a comfortable spot. Speaking of which, their front and rear legroom tells the story:

• Ford Escape Legroom (Front/Rear): 42.4/40.7 in.
• Toyota RAV4 Legroom (Front/Rear): 41/37.8 in.

When comfort is a priority, the choice is clear.

Driver-Assistive Technologies

Driver-assistive features use sensors and onboard computing to help keep an eye out for you while you're driving. They provide alerts so drivers can remain on top of road conditions and be aware of potential threats. Both the Ford Escape and the Toyota RAV4 have many features in common, such as brand-specific versions of:

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
• Pedestrian Detection
• Blind Spot Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control

When combined, they offer an aura of protection that surrounds you for enhanced security. For the Ford Escape, however, this is just the beginning of how modern tech keeps watch to protect you.

An Extra Set of Eyes

Both SUVs include standard blind-spot monitoring, but the Ford Escape builds on that foundation with additional driver-assistance technology. Intersection Assist helps detect pedestrians entering your path when you’re turning across traffic, providing alerts and braking support, if needed. You’ll have added confidence during critical moments when awareness matters most.

Safety doesn’t stop when the drive ends. When parked along a busy street, the Escape’s Exit Warning system helps detect approaching vehicles or cyclists, alerting occupants before opening the door. It reflects Ford’s focus on real-world protection, looking out for you and your passengers even after your vehicle is in Park. Neither feature is offered by the Toyota RAV4.