2020 Ford Escape vs Nissan Rogue

 

A crossover SUV is an outstanding choice for many Philadelphia, Warminster, and Doylestown drivers, and the 2020 Ford Escape and Nissan Rogue are both talented vehicles. They provide reliable engines, accessible technology, a smooth ride, and so much more. So, how do you know which one to choose?

To help you decide on a car that will perfectly meet your needs and fit into your lifestyle, Fred Beans Ford of Doylestown is here to help. Our crossover pros have created this head-to-head comparison of the Ford Escape vs. Nissan Rogue, and it's filled with tons of information.

Take a look below to see which one of these popular models will make a great new travel companion and where you can get behind the wheel today.

2020 Ford Escape	2020 Nissan Rogue
Seating
5	5
Max Horsepower
250	170
Rear Headroom
39.9 in.	38.5 in.
Bluetooth® Streaming Audio
Standard	Standard
Transmission
8-speed SelectShift® Automatic	Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission)

Ford Escape vs Nissan Rogue: Engine Power  

Nothing says more about an SUV than the power that is under the hood. When it comes to the engine lineups in the Escape and Rogue, there are a few similarities. However, it's their differences you should take note of.

The Ford Escape and Nissan Rogue both offer 4-cylinder powertrains with their starting engines, which is perfect for daily driving and hitting the city streets in style. Although, you might have a little more fun with the 181 horsepower you'll rev up in the Escape, compared to the 170 horsepower in the Rogue.

This power is applied to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission on the 2020 Escape, while the Nissan Rogue features a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Though a CVT has its perks, the 8-speed option provides you with more customization behind the wheel and plenty of gears to experiment with.

Going beyond their entry-level equipment, the 2020 Escape has three additional engines to select from. Using their signature EcoBoost® technology, Ford provides you with an ideal combination of strength and efficiency. With the available 2.0L powertrain, you'll receive up to 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This higher-level engine makes pass-and-merge highway driving much easier.

Additionally, the Ford Escape offers two hybrid engine options, with a 2.5L Atkinson Cycle Hybrid and a Plug-In Hybrid model. Both of these options give you an impressive horsepower of over 200 and a toque of 155 lb-ft.

Unfortunately, if you're looking for a more powerful motor in the Rogue, the standard 2.5L is your only option. The Rogue also doesn't offer a hybrid engine anywhere in their lineup. When compared to the Ford, Nissan buyers don't have quite the performance range (or maximum power) that the 2020 Escape offers in its three engines.

 

2020 Escape vs 2020 Rogue: Technology & Entertainment  

There are numerous technologies that make the Escape and Rogue fun SUVs to drive. In the Ford Escape, you will find the enhanced voice-activated SYNC® with Bluetooth® capabilities, a 6-speaker system, and a USB port standard in its base trim. On the other hand, the Rogue's standard features include Bluetooth®, a USB port, and a 4-speaker audio system.

The 2020 Ford Escape's technology suite has an available SYNC® 3 touchscreen infotainment system. This comes with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, all accessible on an 8-inch touchscreen. The Nissan Rogue also makes Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ available but offers a slightly smaller 7-inch touchscreen. Additionally, voice recognition for navigation and audio is standard on the top Escape trim level, but available on its lower trims.

When it comes to navigation, getting to where you're going is simple, with help from the Ford Escape. A single search box in this SUV's touchscreen makes it easy to enter an address or name of the place you're heading, so you can get on your way faster. The Nissan Rogue's screen is also intuitive to use, but the graphics aren't as clean. Additionally, the larger screen in the Ford Escape comes in handy when checking navigation maps, as well as accessing other apps on the go.

To make navigation even more streamlined, the Ford Escape also has a WAZE navigational system available, which is a feature you won't find in the Nissan crossover. This smart system uses real-time updates, so you can always avoid traffic jams, road construction, accidents, and road closures. Additionally, this system can even sync up with other WAZE users!

Finally, no drive is the same without a kicking sound system that makes your go-to playlists sound their best. As stated before, each crossover comes standard with a 6 or 4-speaker sound system. However, you have the ability to upgrade to a premium sound system in both models, as well.

In the Nissan Rogue, you can opt for the Bose® Premium Audio System, which takes your tunes to the next level. This includes nine speakers and a subwoofer. On the other hand, the Ford Escape makes available the B&O™ Sound System by Bang & Olufsen. This puts 10 speakers and a subwoofer in your cabin for the ultimate listening experience. 

 

Escape vs Rogue: Driver Assistance

Driver-assisting systems have become more popular in the past few years, and the Escape and Rogue are both equipped to aid you while driving. These two vehicles offer rear-view cameras, blind-spot monitoring systems, and rear cross-traffic features to give you the optimal peace of mind. These assist in an array of driving situations, from safely backing out of your driveway to having a full view of what is behind you.

The 2020 Ford Escape's safety features include enhanced Active Park Assist 2.0, which can help you park your car in many different situations. With minimal work needed on your end, the Escape can steer in or out of a parking spot with a parallel parking feature that takes over steering while you shift, accelerate, or brake.

Driver-assisting technologies like these can help you stay aware of your surroundings for a safer ride. The Nissan Rogue, however, does not offer the conveniences of park-assist technology like the Ford Escape does.

Ford vs Nissan: Towing Capacity  

Towing is an important aspect of owning an SUV. Though they don't offer quite as much power as a truck, combined with easy driving, trailering lighter loads is one of the biggest appeals to crossover owners.

Everyone knows that Ford is built to be tough. With the Escape as an SUV, it is no different. When this model is equipped with the available 2.0L engine and the Class II Trailer Tow Package, you can tow up to 3,500 pounds! This is perfect for packing up the jet skis for some on-the-lake adventuring or hitching up a light trailer, making a moving day or home projects a breeze.

Plus, this available package not only makes your vehicle more capable, it makes the Escape safer while towing, as well. With features like trailer sway control and an auxiliary transmission cooler, you'll be covered, whether you're loading up for work or play.

The Nissan Rogue is also capable of towing, but at a significantly lessened rate. When properly equipped, the Rogue's max towing capability is 1,102 pounds. Plus, it doesn't offer the advanced towing technologies that the Escape provides. This means you might have to call a friend to help tow the next time you want to take the boat out to the lake or are working on a home improvement project.

2020 Ford Escape vs Nissan Rogue: The Decision is Yours

The Ford Escape and Nissan Rogue are both impressive vehicles with reliable engines, advanced technology options, and dependable safety features.

However, we feel that SUV-shoppers in the Philadelphia, Warminster, and Doylestown region will appreciate the Escape's extra engine choices and intuitive high-tech features. However, there is only one way to see if this vehicle is right for you and your family

If you're looking for more information about the Escape or to experience this SUV for yourself, the team at Fred Beans Ford of Doylestown is happy to help! Learn more about this model by reading the rest of our in-depth Ford Escape reviews. Schedule a test drive, so you can see the 2020 Ford Escape in action. Contact us today!

Compare The Escape