Compare the 2018 Honda CR-V vs 2018 Ford Escape

Serving Capitol Heights, Washington D.C., and Arlington, VA

A compact crossover doesn't have to be all that compact. Several models in this vehicle class offer a great amount of interior space, meaning that one doesn't need a three-row dinosaur in order to haul the family around town in style. The buying decision therefore becomes one centered around standard features, drivability, and how nice the interior is.

The 2018 Honda CR-V hardly resembles past years' offerings with this model name. It has been completely restyled, and the result is a more upscale, refined interior, better suspension and better handling, and a more pleasing list of standard amenities. The 2018 Ford Escape is a highly rated model in its own right, but it isn't as elegantly appointed as the CR-V, and although it comes with a choice of three engines, they don't bring much to the table in terms of driving enjoyment.

Interior Features

The 2018 Honda CR-V has wide front and rear doors, making for easy entry and exit. This year's model is a bit taller, but the added height doesn't mean difficulty climbing aboard. The overlapping doors with narrow sills is a big plus when it comes to entering the vehicle. Once inside, passengers are treated to plenty of soft-touch surfaces, huge interior dimensions, and excellent outward visibility. The uplevel trims have full leather upholstery, and the insert accents are quite visually pleasing. The gauge cluster is easy to read, and every dial and button is visible to the driver at all times. The 2018 Ford Escape is quite roomy, but the materials quality falls a bit short when compared to the CR-V. The back seating area offers good legroom, but the cabin itself isn't as spacious or airy as what is experienced inside the CR-V.

Driving Experience

Buyers of the base LX trim will be surprised at how peppy the 2.4L engine is. Even though it produces only 184 horsepower, acceleration is adequate, and fuel efficiency is very good. The EX trim is equipped with a more powerful turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 190 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard on all trims. Suspension is excellent, and the vehicle feels quite lively going around turns at high speed. Body roll is minimal. The steering resistance builds gradually, giving the driver complete control no matter how sharp the cornering. The steering wheel return to center position is precise, a big plus when cornering on a multi-lane freeway. The 2018 Ford Escape comes with the choice of a turbocharged 1.5L engine rated at 179 horsepower or a turbocharged 2.0L engine that produces 245 horsepower, but this larger engine is a real gas guzzler. Also, the steering suffers from an artificial feel.

Standard Equipment

The base LX trim on the 2018 Honda CR-V comes with automatic climate control, cruise control, an LCD dashboard display, Bluetooth, and USB connectivity. The next trim up, the EX, piles on a lot more for a tiny price increase. Additional features on the EX include heated mirrors, rear privacy glass, a sunroof, a driver information center, and full smartphone app integration. The 2018 Ford Escape base trim is rather affordable, but the Sync 3 infotainment system is not included as standard. It must be purchased as an optional add-on. The larger screen display is also not included as standard but is instead an expensive add-on.

Check out the 2018 Honda CR-V today at Pohanka Honda. Remember, this is a completely redesigned model, so even if you're familiar with older versions, seeing this one up-close will be a real treat. Schedule a test drive to see how it compares with the 2018 Ford Escape.

MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at MSRP refers to the base model, optional equipment not included. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification. To get full pricing details, see your dealer.

*Based on 2018 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.