Main points
- The Escape’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, compared to the Xterra’s 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
- However, the Escape offers a wider range of available features, such as a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
- The Xterra offers impressive off-road capability and a spacious interior, while the Escape has a more modern and upscale interior and a wider range of technology and safety features.
When it comes to choosing a mid-sized SUV, two popular contenders are the Nissan Xterra and the Ford Escape. Both vehicles offer a combination of ruggedness, versatility, and everyday practicality. But which one is the better choice for your needs? To help you make an informed decision, let’s compare the Nissan Xterra and the Ford Escape in several key areas.
Performance and Efficiency:
The Nissan Xterra is powered by a 4.0L V6 engine that produces 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The Ford Escape, on the other hand, offers a variety of engine options, including a turbocharged 2.0L EcoBoost inline-4 that delivers 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Ford Escape has a slight edge over the Nissan Xterra. The Escape’s EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, compared to the Xterra’s 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
Off-Road Capability:
The Nissan Xterra is known for its impressive off-road capabilities. It features a part-time four-wheel drive system with low-range gearing, as well as a locking rear differential and hill descent control. The Xterra also has a higher ground clearance than the Ford Escape, making it better suited for tackling rough terrain.
The Ford Escape, on the other hand, offers more of a crossover-like experience. It has a standard front-wheel drive system, with all-wheel drive available as an option. While the Escape is capable of handling light off-road conditions, it’s not as well-equipped as the Xterra for serious off-roading.
Interior Space and Comfort:
The Nissan Xterra and the Ford Escape offer similar amounts of interior space. Both vehicles have seating for up to five passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. However, the Xterra has a slightly larger cargo area, with 65.7 cubic feet of space behind the front seats compared to the Escape’s 60.8 cubic feet.
In terms of comfort, both the Xterra and the Escape offer a comfortable ride quality, with well-cushioned seats and a quiet cabin. However, the Escape has a more modern and upscale interior design, with higher-quality materials and more features.
Technology and Safety:
The Nissan Xterra and the Ford Escape both come standard with a range of technology and safety features. These include a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. However, the Escape offers a wider range of available features, such as a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
In terms of safety, the Ford Escape has a slight edge over the Nissan Xterra. The Escape received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Xterra received a four-star overall safety rating.
Price and Value:
The Nissan Xterra has a starting price of $26,490, while the Ford Escape starts at $24,885. However, the Escape offers a wider range of trim levels and options, so it’s possible to find a model that fits your budget and needs.
The Verdict:
The Nissan Xterra and the Ford Escape are both solid choices for those seeking a mid-sized SUV. The Xterra offers impressive off-road capability and a spacious interior, while the Escape has a more modern and upscale interior and a wider range of technology and safety features. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and priorities.
Alternative Considerations:
If you’re looking for other mid-sized SUV options, here are a few alternatives to consider:
- Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 is a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and fuel-efficient SUV. It offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior, along with a variety of features and options.
- Honda CR-V: The CR-V is another top-selling mid-sized SUV, known for its versatility, practicality, and fuel efficiency. It offers a well-equipped cabin and a range of available features, including a hybrid powertrain.
- Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 is a stylish and sporty SUV that offers a fun-to-drive experience. It has a well-appointed interior and a range of available features, including a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading, the Nissan Xterra or the Ford Escape?
A: The Nissan Xterra is better for off-roading than the Ford Escape. It has a more capable four-wheel drive system, a locking rear differential, and hill descent control.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior, the Nissan Xterra or the Ford Escape?
A: The Nissan Xterra has a slightly larger cargo area than the Ford Escape, but both vehicles offer similar amounts of interior space.
Q: Which SUV has a more modern and upscale interior, the Nissan Xterra or the Ford Escape?
A: The Ford Escape has a more modern and upscale interior than the Nissan Xterra. It has higher-quality materials, a more stylish design, and a wider range of available features.