At first, the 2021 Ford Escape and Nissan Rogue look like two small crossover SUVs with a little too much in common. And that’s why choosing between them can be complicated. But our comparison guide is here to help you look closer at each model. By the end, you’ll know whether you should drive home in the Escape or Rogue.
Comfort and Tech features: It’s a Tie!
When it comes to on-road creature comforts and smartphone-friendly tech gear, the 2021 Ford Escape and Nissan Rogue are pretty evenly matched. Both crossovers are roomy and comfortable, catering to passengers with optional luxury features like leather upholstery and heated seats. And both provide the latest smartphone integration technology, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and touch-screen infotainment systems.
Most Efficient Ride: 2021 Ford Escape
Compared to the Rogue, the Escape can help you save money on your commute. Its hybrid powertrain, standard on the top-trim Titanium and optional on the mid-grade SE and SEL trim models, earns up to 41 mpg combined (44 city/37 highway mpg).
The Rogue’s EPA ratings vary according to which trim model and drivetrain you select, with top ratings of 30 mpg combined (27 city/35 highway mpg). Note that Nissan is testing out a new 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that, once added to the official lineup, will help the Rogue earn up to 33 mpg combined (30/37 mpg).
Sporty Performance: 2021 Ford Escape
In addition to its at-the-pump savings, the Escape can also beat the Rogue in a race. Besides its standard turbo three-cylinder engine (181 horsepower, 190 pound-feet of torque), the Escape offers two optional engines. The thrifty hybrid powertrain (200 hp) steps up your speed and improves fuel economy. If you’re looking for an extra sporty drive, choose the turbo four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 280 lb-ft).
The Rogue’s performance is more straightforward, with the same engine on every trim model. The Rogue’s four-cylinder engine (181 hp, 181 lb-ft) gives you a performance on par with the Escape’s base engine. However, if you’re looking for a sporty upgrade, you won’t find one here.
Five-Star Safety: 2021 Ford Escape
In government crash tests, both crossovers earned perfect five-star ratings for overall safety. But the Escape also earned five-star ratings in front crash tests, whereas the Rogue only earned four stars.
These crossovers also have a lot of high-tech safety aids in common. Both will help you spot danger, thanks to standard features like lane departure mitigation and blind-spot monitoring.
Endnotes
With their recent redesigns, both small crossovers delight the senses with their roomy, comfortable cabins and smartphone-savvy tech features. However, when it comes to performance, the 2021 Ford Escape gives you every advantage over the Nissan Rogue.