The increasing fuel saving technologies seen in light trucks and SUVs sales has once again made SUVs a hot commodity. Two popular SUVs made by American manufacturers that are currently available on the market are the 2016 Ford Escape and 2016 Jeep Cherokee. Below is a review comparing both of the most basic trim configurations — a Cherokee Sport and a Escape S.
Engine and Fuel Economy
Both SUVs have similarly-sized engines, however the car with the smaller engine is able to produce more horsepower and it has a better fuel efficiency. The 2016 Ford Escape S is equipped with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission that generates 168 horsepower. The 2016 Jeep Cherokee Sport has a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder, 184-horsepower engine paired to a 9-speed automatic transmission.The Cherokee Sport has an average fuel economy of 22 MPG in the city and 31 MPG when on the highway. The Escape S receives an average of 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG when on the highway.
Drivetrain and Towing
The Cherokee Sport and Escape S come standard with 2-wheel drive that is powered through the vehicle’s front wheels. Both vehicles can be upgraded with four-wheel-drive capabilities. The Cherokee has a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds and the Ford Escape has a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.
Interior and Exterior
Both the Cherokee and the Escape have many of the same standard features like cloth seating and front bucket seats, multiple USB ports, an auxiliary jack and steering wheel controls. While both vehicles are fitted with modern convenience features, the specific features do differ.
The Cherokee Sport features a 5.0-inch touchscreen display which is the main access point to the Cherokee’s 5.0 UConnect system. UConnect is Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) built-in entertainment system that has Bluetooth streaming, voice command and a hands-free texting capability. The Altima also has a variety of safety features that helped make it a 2016 IIHS Top Safety Pick.
The Ford Escape has a rearview camera that displays on the car’s dashboard display. The Focus is equipped with SYNC, Ford’s entertainment system that includes a voice-activated communications and entertainment system, so drivers can easily control media options while keeping their hands on the road.
Price and Warranty
The 2016 Jeep Cherokee starts at $23,495 and the Ford Escape S is priced at $23,600. Both Jeep and Ford offer the same standard 3-year or 36,000 mile basic limited warranty and 5-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
