Mazda CX-5 vs. Ford Escape

Mazda CX 5 vs Ford Escape- banner

Compelling Compact Crossovers Face Off

Mazda and Ford were partners at one point, but now the two compete in multiple segments. One such segment is the crowded compact crossover segment. The Mazda CX-5 vs. Ford Escape is a comparison between two attractive crossovers with nice interiors and exciting powertrains. Ray Skillman Northeast Mazda is here to break it down.

Highlights of the Mazda CX-5

The four-door CX-5 has the designation as Mazda’s most popular crossover. It features two rows of seating with room for five people. Despite not having a facelift in a while, the CX-5 has a sleek look and delivers impressive versatility. It handles well and can feel pretty sporty if you opt for the 2.5-liter turbo engine that makes up to 256 horsepower.

With standard AWD, the Mazda CX-5 looks even more attractive for its starting price of just over $30,000. The base engine puts out a respectable 187 horsepower, but if you want more power, an engine upgrade is available. A new addition to the CX-5 lineup is the Carbon package. This is available both with the turbo engine and the regular engine.

Mazda CX 5 vs Ford Escape - interior comparison

Highlights of the Ford Escape

The Ford Escape has been around for a few decades since the compact crossover market was relatively small. It started out looking like a small, rugged SUV but has since evolved into something more sophisticated. The Escape comes in four powertrain options, including a hybrid and plug-in hybrid. With a starting price of just under $31,000, the Escape is a bit more expensive than the CX-5.

Featuring a comfortable and roomy cabin, the Ford Escape also boasts plenty of technology, including wireless Apple and Android connectivity. Compared to the CX-5, the Escape has a more spacious interior, but the interior quality isn’t as upscale as the Mazda crossover. The standard engine on the Escape is a 1.5-liter turbo-four that makes 180 horsepower.

Mazda CX-5 vs. Ford Escape: How To Choose Your Compact Crossover

When it comes to the Mazda CX-5 vs. Ford Escape, these are both very good compact crossover options. Both have simple styling and good powertrain options. Both SUVs are also quite affordable. You might choose the Ford Escape if you want to tow more—it can tow up to 3,500 pounds—or if interior space is a priority.

For looks and handling, the Mazda CX-5 is a more attractive choice than the Ford Escape. Its base engine is also more powerful, and it has a nicer interior at a lower price point. The CX-5 also comes with AWD standard on all trims, so you won’t have to worry about whether you should pay more to get that feature.

At Ray Skillman Northeast Mazda, we recommend the Mazda CX-5 for its quality looks, affordable price, nimble handling, and standard AWD. The CX-5 also has a five-star NHTSA safety rating compared to four stars for the Escape. For many buyers, the CX-5 simply checks all the boxes for a versatile compact crossover.