Ford Escape vs. Toyota Corolla Cross: A Comparison

When shopping for a compact SUV, it's common to compare the Ford Escape vs. Toyota Corolla Cross. Both models deliver modern design, fuel efficiency, and everyday practicality-but the Ford Escape edges ahead with more powertrain options, a roomier interior, and advanced tech that's tailored for today's drivers. Take a closer look at both of these models with the team at Mike Castrucci Ford.

The Ford Escape offers more flexibility under the hood than the Toyota Corolla Cross. It starts with a standard 1.5L EcoBoost® engine and climbs to a 2.0L EcoBoost® for added performance. Ford also offers two electrified options: the Ford Escape full hybrid, powered by a 2.5L iVCT Atkinson-cycle engine, and the Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid, which lets you drive short distances using electric power alone. The Toyota Corolla Cross, by contrast, is limited to a 2.0L 4-cylinder gas engine and a hybrid version with a combined 196 horsepower. While the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid comes with standard AWD, the Ford Escape offers more combinations across its gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid models, including options for full-time four-wheel drive and advanced control systems for enhanced stability.

Fuel economy is a priority for both vehicles, but the Ford Escape takes it a step further. On the highway, the Ford Escape gets impressive miles per gallon, making it a great choice for long-distance travel. The Ford Escape hybrid is built for exceptional mileage, and the Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid gives you the option to drive on electricity alone-something the Toyota Corolla Cross doesn't offer. The Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid does achieve impressive EPA ratings, but drivers looking to reduce their gas station visits or transition toward EV driving will find more flexibility in the Ford Escape lineup.

Inside the cabin, the Ford Escape offers a more spacious and refined experience. The Ford Escape offers superior cargo capacity, with ample space both with all seats in place and with the second row folded down. Additionally, the Ford Escape provides more front shoulder room, enhancing comfort for the driver and front passenger. With generous second-row legroom, available ActiveX® seating, and an optional panoramic Vista Roof®, it creates a more upscale feel for both drivers and passengers. The available 13.2-inch touchscreen is among the largest in its class, making navigation and connectivity a breeze. While the Toyota Corolla Cross includes a solid list of interior features and an 8-inch touchscreen, it falls short in rear legroom and overall cargo space, which may impact comfort on longer trips.

Both the Ford Escape and the Toyota Corolla Cross come equipped with advanced safety features. The Ford Escape includes advanced safety features like four-wheel antilock brakes and crash mitigating brakes. The Ford Escape includes the Ford Co-Pilot360® suite with technologies like Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®), Lane-Keeping System, and Pre-Collision Assist. Additionally, the Ford Escape is equipped with rear parking sensors to assist drivers during reversing maneuvers. It also uses SYNC® 4 technology with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for a seamless digital experience. Toyota's Safety Sense™ 3.0 package offers similar capabilities, including multiple airbags for comprehensive occupant protection, but the infotainment system and customization options are more limited compared to the Ford's modern interface.

When looking at the Ford Escape vs. Toyota Corolla Cross, the Ford Escape offers more in nearly every category-from powertrain options and plug-in capability to cabin space and technology. Both vehicles have strong reliability and safety ratings, and when comparing the Ford Escape Hybrid vs. Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, the Ford Escape continues to shine with more versatility and an available plug-in model for eco-conscious drivers. Visit Mike Castrucci Ford to test-drive the Ford Escape and see for yourself why it's the smarter choice in today's compact SUV market.