Ford Escape vs Subaru Forester

Medium-sized
SUVs are one of Australia's most popular motoring choices. A cross between a
utility vehicle and an urban vehicle, SUVs are the ultimate "do it
all" choice.
Ideal
for families, adventurous couples who need a car that can carry their kit, and
drivers who like a set of wheels that can perform confidently off-road as well
as on the tarmac, the ultimate SUV needs to be not only a jack-of-all-trades
but also a master of versatility.
Here
we take a look at two of the key players in the SUV market: the Ford Escape and the Subaru Forester.
Both well-made vehicles, ultimately the one that's right for you will depend on
individual preferences and needs. We provide some vital details on each model,
as well as discuss the pros and cons of these well-matched 2021 SUV options.
Ford
Escape
Compared with the 2019 and 2020 version of the Escape,
the 2021 offering has had quite a makeover! Sporty styling, a wealth of
features (including an excellent suite of safety options and driver-assist
details), and an engine that delivers on torque without compromising on petrol
consumption mean the Escape is likely to give its more popular rivals (the
Toyota RAV4 or the Mazda CX-5, for example), a good run for their money.
Features
- Longer, lower, and with the option of a tasty sports body kit, the Escape
blends stylish sophistication with a touch of the feral, resulting in an
eye-catching, impressive exterior. Look out for the roof-top spoiler, privacy
glass and dual exhaust.
- In addition to the standard, 2l turbo-petrol engine, there is also an option
for a 2.5l plug-in hybrid model, which significantly improves fuel efficiency.
- Plenty of "little extras": from variable boot space through to
proximity unlocking, an 8" colour infotainment screen, AEB, adaptive
cruise control, ISOFIX anchorage points (for children's car seats), and several
driving modes, the Escape scores highly on both safety and tech.
Interior and Exterior design
As indicated earlier, the exterior design of the Escape is one of its major drawcards.
Depending on which version you opt for (there are three: entry-level Escape;
the ST-line; and the Vignale), determines features such as the type of grille,
headlight choice; and trim. Owners can choose from one of eight colours for the
exterior.
The interior is spacious (which is vital in an SUV), although parents with
car-seat-aged children may find the relatively narrow opening angle of the rear
doors an issue). Relatively poor rear visibility means reliance on the
rear-view camera is a necessity, rather than an option.
Engine
Both the entry-level Escape and the ST-line (available in AWD and FWD) utilises
2.0l turbo petrol engine that provides 367Nm torque and has a fuel consumption
of around 8.6l/100km. The 2.5l hybrid option has the same torque as its
non-hybrid counterparts (367Nm), but fuel consumption drops to around
1.5l/100km.
Technology
Seamless connectivity is the aim of the game when it comes to the Escape's
tech. The SYNC3 infotainment system enables drivers to control the sat-nav,
sound system, and phone using voice-operated controls. Wireless charging is a
particularly handy detail.
Safety
A five-star ANCAP rating ensures the Escape is ideal for safety-conscious
motorists. The model includes a wealth of static safety features (such as
airbags and ISOFIX anchorage points) as well as numerous driver-assist
features.
AEB
with pedestrian detection, a split-view camera, traffic sign recognition,
parking assist, lane assist, adaptive cruise control, and tyre pressure
monitoring are just some of the Escape's safety points.
Price
The price of the basic Escape starts at around $25,990, with the ST-line
beginning at around $37,990. The Vignale entry-point is about $46,590, whilst
the hybrid option costs about $52,940.
Subaru Forester
Benefiting from the introduction of a hybrid in the 2021 line-up, the Forester continues to provide owners with a strong mix of
performance, comfort, versatility, and space.
Features
- Reviewers rave about the Forester's handling, which is good news if you're a
driver who likes to drive.
- There's plenty of space, even in the back.
- Impressive range of tech - including an intriguing drowsiness alert!
- Excellent safety record.
Interior and Exterior Design
The Forester's exterior probably isn't its strongest point. Some people may
find it a little boxy, with nondescript styling.
That said, who looks at the exterior of the vehicle when you're driving?
Inside, the Forester benefits from a spacious interior, which incorporates a
wide variety of gizmos and gadgets. It's certainly not the most up-market
interior but does contain everything needed for a comfortable trip.
Engine
The standard engine for the Forester, regardless of version, is the Boxer 2.5l
4-cylinder petrol engine. There is also a hybrid version, which has a similar
engine. Torque is around 239Nm for the standard model, and 196Nm for the
hybrid. Fuel efficiency is around 7.4l/100km, and 6.7l/100km for the standard
petrol engine and the hybrid respectively.
Tech
A 6.5" LCD touchscreen provides the infotainment interface in the
Forester. Compatible with Siri, as well as Apple Carplay and Android Auto, the
interface has Bluetooth capability. Drivers benefit from a range of innovative
features, including the Eyesight driver-assist system and a Drive Monitoring
System that will alert the driver if signs of drowsiness or distraction are
detected!
Safety
Like the Escape, the Forester has a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. The vehicle
incorporates numerous anti-collision technologies, such as symmetrical AWD, a
comprehensive Driver Monitoring System, Pedestrian Alert system, Rear-view
camera, and Vision Assist (predominantly technologies to improve visibility).
Mechanical aids to safety include airbags, height-adjustable seat belt anchors,
a passenger "safety cell", and seat belt warning lights.
Pricing
The Forester comes in seven different variants. The entry-level Forester starts
off at around $39,838, with the most expensive model starting at around $45,
297.
Pros
and Cons
Both of these SUVs look set to offer reliable performance and a good driving
experience. The Ford Escape definitely has the edge when it comes to torque,
with its powerful 2l engine providing significantly more bang for your buck
than the Forester.
That
said, reviewers have rated the AWD traction and overall handling of the
Forester highly, whereas some commentators have found the Ford lacks control
and responsiveness at times. The Escape has slightly higher fuel consumption at
8.6l/100km, whilst the Forester uses around 7.4l/100km - a negligible
difference.
The Ford's smaller opening angle for the rear doors may be a drawback for
families with younger children, who need to be able to easily access the car
seats. Although, for owners who need plenty of boot space on occasion, the
Ford's ability to utilise some of the rear cabin space to provide extra boot
space is a plus.
Some
commentators have also found the Ford's seats to be somewhat narrow and
uncomfortable - a problem for taller drivers, or those embarking on a longer
trip.
The tech for both vehicles is roughly comparable: both have a reasonable degree
of connectivity, and a colour infotainment screen. There are little differences
between the two, but which is preferable in tech terms is largely a matter of
opinion: wireless recharging (the Escape) v additional charging points in the
rear (the Forester), for example.
The Forester does include a fairly extensive selection of driver surveillance
measures (the driver monitoring system), which includes features such as facial
recognition and drowsiness alert. Depending on taste, this could either be a
helpful aid to good driving, or an irritating electronic nanny system that
feels intrusive.
Safety is ANCAP 5-star in both cases.
If you're a driver who loves to drive, and for whom performance (and cost) are
priorities, then possibly the Forester is the one for you. Great for the school
run, the Forester makes a convincing off-road and adventure vehicle, at a
reasonable price.
Alternatively, if you value a stunning exterior, plenty of punch under the
bonnet, a wealth of features, and don't mind paying a little more, the Escape
is probably a better bet.
Find
a Ford Escape or Subaru Forester on Cartopia or
access low rate car finance for you next car purchase on Credit One.