Which has more of what you want in a compact crossover SUV, the 2024 Ford Escape or the Mazda CX-5? Our comparison guide helps you get to know each model!
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 Ford Escape (from $29,459) starts at nearly the same price as the 2024 Mazda CX-5 (from $29,300).
- Thanks to its smooth ride and sublime seating, the Escape is our first choice for comfort.
- With standard all-wheel drive and a range of high-powered engine options, the Mazda CX-5 is a very sporty choice.
- To prioritize fuel economy, you’ll need the Escape!
Base Price: It’s (Basically) a Tie!
Starting at $29,300, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 offers an excellent price on a brand new compact crossover. Plus, this MSRP includes an outstanding list of standard features, from LED headlamps to dual-zone automatic climate control.
But with a very competitive MSRP of $29,459, the 2024 Ford Escape also provides plenty of bang for your buck. Like its competitor, the base Escape includes a range of coveted features, from a leather-wrapped steering wheel to a power liftgate!
Interior Comfort: 2024 Ford Escape
This was a tough competition, but the Escape pulls ahead, thanks to its sublimely comfortable seats and smooth, composed ride. The Escape’s front seats are especially cozy, with generous cushioning and comfort-inducing contours. We also like the fact that the Escape offers six trim models, giving you plenty of options when it comes to luxury upgrades. On higher trims, you’ll enjoy upscale items like leather upholstery, a head-up display, and a panoramic sunroof.
The Mazda CX-5 offers comfortable seats of its own, though the rear bench can feel a little flat after a few hours on the road. Compared to the Escape, the CX-5’s performance feels a little stiff, cutting back on ride comfort. However, this Mazda crossover maintains a quiet cabin, even in the face of wind and highway noise.
Sporty Performance: 2024 Mazda CX-5
With standard all-wheel drive and a suspension that’s tuned more for athleticism than comfort, the CX-5 delivers the sportiest ride! Plus, Mazda’s small crossover is available with a little extra power, thanks to an available turbocharged engine that makes 256 horses and 320 pound-feet of torque.
Depending on trim model, the 2024 CX-5 is available with your choice of two engines:
- 2.5L four-cylinder engine (184 horsepower, 186 lb-ft of torque)
- 2.5 Turbo and 2.5 Turbo Signature: 2.5L four-cylinder engine (227 hp, 310 lb-ft or 256 hp and 320 lb-ft running on 93 octane)
- Six-speed automatic transmission
- All-wheel drive
The Escape is nearly as powerful, thanks to its optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which helps you zoom through traffic with 250 horses and 280 pound-feet of torque! Ford’s small crossover is also available with all-wheel drive, helping you enjoy a sportier performance, on-road and off!
Depending on trim model, the 2024 Escape is available with your choice of four engine options:
- Turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine (180 horsepower, 199 lb-ft of torque)
- Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder (250 hp, 280 lb-ft)
- 2.5L hybrid four-cylinder (192 hp, 155 lb-ft)
- 2.5L plug-in hybrid four-cylinder (210 hp, 155 lb-ft)
- Eight-speed automatic transmission
- Continuously variable transmission (hybrid and PHEV powertrains)
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
Everyday Efficiency: 2024 Ford Escape
The 2024 Ford Escape can help you save more at the pump! The Escape PHEV trim model is the thriftiest option, with EPA ratings of 40 mpg combined in hybrid mode. But its available hybrid engine is nearly as thrifty, helping you achieve up to 39 mpg combined (42 city/36 highway).
Meanwhile, the most efficient version of the 2024 Mazda CX-5 earns EPA ratings up to 28 mpg combined (26 city/31 highway). That’s not bad for a sporty crossover, but it falls short of what many drivers want from a fuel-efficient crossover.
Your New Crossover SUV
Although the 2024 Mazda CX-5 is a sporty contender, the 2024 Ford Escape has more mass appeal. Choose Ford’s compact crossover for maximum fuel economy, a smooth ride, and rich interior comfort! Come in to Keystone for a test drive to make sure the Escape is the SUV for you!