2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Ford Escape

Explorer vs Escape: Interior Space & Comfort

First, we must acknowledge the biggest difference between the 2021 Ford Explorer and the 2021 Ford Escape: size. The Explorer is noticeably larger with three rows of seats to offer, while the Escape holds its own as a spacious yet more compact SUV.

Comparatively speaking, both models have plenty of wiggle room for passengers—there isn’t too much of a difference in first- and second-row roominess between the two models, as you’ll see below:

Being a midsize SUV, the Explorer offers seating for up to seven passengers in addition to a whopping 87.8 total cubic feet of cargo space. While the Escape only seats five people, it also offers more than 37 cubic feet of cargo space without having to sacrifice any of your seats.

On top of all the space each passenger will have, both models also offer many available comfort-enhancing features, including heated front seats, multi-zone automatic climate control, and leather seating surfaces.

To make packing your cargo easier than ever, both models offer an available hands-free, foot-activated liftgate. To access the cargo area, all you need to do is swipe your foot under the rear bumper—no need to fish your keys out of your pocket or put your stuff down to open the tailgate manually.

Explorer vs Escape: Performance Specifications

Both the 2021 Ford Explorer and the 2021 Ford Escape offer multiple impressive engine options. The Explorer strives to live up to its namesake with a twin-turbocharged 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine that produces a whopping 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.

This kind of power enables you to tow up to 5,600 pounds of trailer weight when properly equipped. With this model, you’ll also get an available Terrain Management System™ to help you venture off the pavement.

Even if you go with the 3.3L V6 Hybrid engine, you’ll have enough power to pull up to 5,000 pounds of trailer weight when the vehicle is properly equipped, plus the efficiency to conquer any commute.

The Escape, on the other hand, specializes in efficiency. Still, this model can pump out up to 250 horsepower and can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. With its hybrid powertrain option, you’ll enjoy an incredible EPA-estimated 44 city/37 highway MPG.

This model doesn’t offer a Terrain Management System™, but you’ll get an available all-wheel drive (AWD) with AWD disconnect system. This system can automatically disconnect the rear driveline when AWD capability isn’t needed, maximizing fuel economy.

Explorer vs Escape: Infotainment & Connectivity

On top of being spacious and comfortable, both the 2021 Ford Explorer and the 2021 Ford Escape offer a variety of advanced technology features, including:

• SYNC® infotainment system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
• Voice-Activated Touchscreen Navigation System with turn-by-turn directions
• FordPass™ Connect with built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot

Using these features, you’ll be able to make hands-free phone calls, access your favorite smartphone apps, and get where you need to go without a hitch.

You can also experience your favorite audio in a whole new way, thanks to the high-end sound systems both models have to offer. Both the Explorer and the Escape offer an available B&O™ Sound System by Bang & Olufsen. The Escape’s smaller body sports a whopping 10 speakers, while the larger of the two models, the Explorer, comes equipped with 12 strategically placed speakers.

Explorer vs Escape: Active Safety Systems

As Ford vehicles, the Explorer and the Escape are equipped to handle any issue on the road. Both models come standardly equipped with the Ford Co-Pilot360™ safety suite. With this suite, you’ll get state-of-the-art features that have your back while you’re driving, and can include:

Adaptive Cruise Control: This system uses exterior sensors to monitor traffic. If it detects a change in speed, it will adjust your speed to match or bring you to a full stop to help prevent a collision.

Auto High-Beam Headlamps: The sensors of this system monitor traffic coming toward you. If a car enters your proximity, it will automatically turn off the high beams and then back on when the vehicle has passed.

Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking: If a potential collision is detected ahead of you, this system can automatically apply the brakes to minimize your risk of impact.

BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert: This system monitors your blind spots and alerts you if a vehicle enters them while you’re driving.

Evasive Steering Assist: This feature uses sensors to monitor the road ahead. If a potential collision is detected, it will use automatic steering to try to avoid making an impact with the vehicle ahead.

Lane-Keeping System: This system keeps tabs on your lane lines. If it detects you’re veering from them, it will use gentle steering guidance to keep you on track.

Rear View Camera: Get a full view of what’s behind you when you’re in Reverse, thanks to this camera system affixed to the rear of the vehicle.

In addition to these standard and available features, both models offer available Active Park Assist 2.0. This system essentially parks the vehicle for you. All you need to do is locate an open spot, put the car in Neutral, and hold down the Active Park Assist button.