Compact crossover SUVs are immensely popular these days. A couple of the top choices for the segment are the Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape. To show how the two SUVs stack up, we created a 2022 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2022 Ford Escape comparison. The RAV4 tackles the Escape, but the Escape puts up a stiff fight. 

2022 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2022 Ford Escape

In our 2022 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2022 Ford Escape comparison, we evaluated several areas for the crossover SUVs. This includes performance, towing, efficiency, off-road capabilities, safety, passenger and cargo space, interior features and technologies, and price/value.

RAV4 vs. Escape: Performance, towing, and efficiency

On the performance front, powertrain choices for the Toyota RAV4 include a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (203 hp/184 lb-ft of torque), a hybrid (219 hp), and a plug-in hybrid with the RAV4 Prime (308 hp). In comparison, the Ford Escape offers four powertrain choices: a 1.5-liter I-3 (181 hp/190 lb-ft of torque), a 2.0-liter I-3 (250 hp/280 lb-ft of torque), a hybrid (200 hp), and a plug-in hybrid (221 hp).

The two crossover SUVs are evenly matched for towing. Both the RAV4 and Escape have a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

For efficiency, the RAV4 Prime has an efficiency rating of 94 MPGe when driving in electric-only mode and 38 combined mpg in hybrid mode. The gas-powered RAV4 has a fuel economy of up 30 combined mpg, while the RAV4 Hybrid has a gas mileage of up to 40 combined mpg.

In comparison, the Escape PHEV plug-in hybrid has an efficiency rating of 105 MPGe when driving in electric-only mode and 40 combined mpg in hybrid mode. The gas-powered Escape has a fuel efficiency rating of up to 30 combined mpg, while the Escape Hybrid has a gas mileage of up to 41 combined mpg. 

RAV4 vs. Escape: Off-road capabilities

If you want an SUV that can handle the rigors of off-road excursions, then the RAV4 is the best choice for you. While both SUVs offer an available all-wheel drive system, only the RAV4 offers an off-road-focused model with the RAV4 TRD Off-Road. With features like large off-road tires and an off-road-tuned suspension, the RAV4 TRD Off-Road can conquer the trails with ease. Additionally, the RAV4 has a higher ground clearance than the Escape (8.6 vs. 7.3 inches).

RAV4 vs. Escape: Safety

Both SUVs are strong for safety. Notable safety features for the RAV4 and Escape include a backup camera, a blind spot monitoring system, stability control, brake assist, and a rear parking aid.

RAV4 vs. Escape: Passenger and cargo space

For interior space, the Escape offers more room for passengers, with a total passenger volume of 104.0 cu-ft, compared to 98.9 cu-ft for the RAV4. However, the RAV4 has more storage space, with a maximum cargo capacity of 69.8 cu-ft, compared to 65.4 cu-ft for the Escape.

RAV4 vs. Escape: Interior features and technologies

For overall interior quality, the RAV4 has the advantage. It has high-quality materials, well-positioned controls, and visually appealing contrast stitching. In comparison, the cabin of the Escape is dominated by hard plastics. Also, the front seats of the Escape are not as comfortable as the ones in the RAV4. Furthermore, unlike the Escape, the RAV4 offers HD Radio.

RAV4 vs. Escape: Price/value

For price/cost, the starting prices for the 2022 Escape range from $25,555 for the base S trim up to $38,325 for the PHEV Titanium trim. In comparison, the starting prices of the 2022 RAV4 range from $26,525 MSRP for the LE trim up to $43,125 MSRP for the RAV4 Prime XSE trim.

2022 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2022 Ford Escape: Which crossover SUV is better?

Each crossover SUV has advantages. For the 2022 Toyota RAV4, advantages include off-road capabilities, storage space, and interior features and technologies. For the 2022 Ford Escape, advantages include efficiency, passenger space, and a lower price.