Many compact SUVs on the road may look like they can handle Newton's winter weather and off-road terrain with ease, but fall short once they’re put to the test because they lack the power and features to keep calm and steady.
Of course, that’s not the case for all small SUVs. Jeep has experience building utes that can actually walk the walk, while Ford has some heavy-duty truck cred under its belt. But which one comes out ahead?
To find out, read our comparison of the 2017 Jeep Cherokee versus the 2017 Ford Escape.
Engine and Performance
Jeep Cherokee
The 2017 Cherokee combines the rugged backbone of a classic Jeep with design that makes it look like a city vehicle – but don’t be fooled. The compact SUV has a number of trim levels to help you find the perfect level of performance for your needs. Models include the Sport, Latitude, Limited, Overland, and Trailhawk, all of which have available all-wheel drive with Selec-Terrain. This system gives you the traction control you need whether you’re traversing snow, mud, sand, or rock, while the automatic setting does the work for you.
The base powertrain is a 2.4-liter inline-4 cylinder with 184 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque; or you can upgrade to a 3.2-liter V6 engine that makes robust, 271 horsepower and 239 lb-ft of torque. Both are available with Jeep’s 9-speed automatic transmission.
Ford Escape
While the 2017 Escape has some driver-centric features, it’s not necessarily a vehicle built for people who love driving, particularly if you’re heading into nature.
The Escape’s base engine is a 2.5-liter inline-4 that makes 168 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. This model does not come with available all-wheel drive. Upgrades include a 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 cylinder engines rated at 179 and 245 horsepower, respectively. Each engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, but only the optional engines are available with all-wheel drive.
Features
Jeep Cherokee
For your entertainment, the 2017 Cherokee has a Uconnect infotainment system with 5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, USB port, and AM/FM/CD. It also has standard cruise control, air conditioning, remote keyless entry, and rear outlets. Available features include premium Uconnect, 9-speaker Alpine audio, dual-pane panoramic moonroof, leather seating, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, aluminum wheels, and exterior accessories.
Ford Escape
The Escape has available Sync3 infotainment, but only as an upgrade. It has standard power locks and windows, and keyless entry, while upgrading one trim level adds dual-zone climate control, power driver’s seat, and alloy wheels. You can also opt to add a power liftgate, leather seats, and push-button start.
Pricing
Jeep Cherokee
Starting at $23,595 MSRP
Ford Escape
Starting at $23,750 MSRP
Category: Comparison
Tags: 2017 Cherokee, Ford, compact SUV, comparison