2018 Jeep Cherokee vs. 2018 Ford Escape
More Details
Experience
Technology
Design
Safety
Performance
CompareIf you are shopping for a mid-size or small SUV crossover vehicle, you have probably looked at both the 2018 Jeep Cherokee and 2018 Ford Escape. The Jeep Cherokee hit the market in 1974, is currently in its fifth generation and still setting industry standards in its class. For 2018, the Jeep Cherokee has been improved by making many previously upgrade option features standard. The Ford Escape has only been on the SUV crossover market since 2000 and is now in its third-generation. There have not been many major changes to the Escape since the redesign in 2013. The 2018 Ford Escape offers a choice of three engines, a nice voice-command interface, good fuel economy, and roomy cargo space. Let’s take a look at the 2018 Jeep Cherokee vs. the 2018 Ford Escape in a few major categories.
Experience
The 2018 Jeep Cherokee offers drivers great cabin materials with plenty of soft-touch surfaces and an overall quality and sophistication. It comes standard with many luxury features for passengers and drivers. Handling is nice, body roll is not excessive, and it handles corners very well. Overall, it provides a stable and predictable handling experience or drivers. Its off-road capabilities are beyond impressive and its tarmac performance is no less. Drivers love the cargo room and ease of access. The ride is quiet and rear-seat passengers will appreciate the roomy rear seat.
The 2018 Ford Escape also offers a nice drive on the roads and generous equipment levels but lacks Cherokee’s off-road capabilities. The Escape offers versatile cargo options and combinations and nice handling thanks to Advance Trac with Roll Stability Control. The 2.0L EcoBoost Class II Trailer Tow Package allows for a maximum tow rating of up to 3,500 LBS. However, if you are a person who is towing adventure gear to an off-road location, you’re going to want to go with the Cherokee for its best-in-class off-road Trackhawk capabilities. The Ford Escape is a good SUV but it may not fit everyone’s needs, especially when looking at value. While it is fun to drive and has a nice interior, it has many features that are only available on higher trim levels.
While both the 2018 Jeep Cherokee and the 2018 Ford Escape offer 5 passenger seating, similar fuel economy, and similar technology, The 2018 Jeep Cherokee pulls ahead with its off-road capability, stronger horsepower, and standard-package luxury extra touches that really make it an industry-leading ride.
Technology
The 2018 Ford Escape has a nice lineup of technology features available for drivers. The Escape has a variety of driver-assist features that make driving easier. The driver-assist features off technology, such as Safe and Smart Package, SYNC 3, and FordPass, BLIS (blind spot information system) with cross-traffic alert, Lane-Keeping System, Adaptive Cruise Control an Forward Collision Warning with Brake Support, and Enhanced, Active, Park Assist. SYNC 3 capabilities bring voice-activated technology to your driving experience and also allow you to connect to your smartphone.
The 2018 Jeep Cherokee comes equipped with the impressive UConnect System that brings drivers entertainment, communication, navigation, and convenience in the comfort of your Jeep. Featured is Bluetooth streaming audio, UConnect Voice command and an easy to use 8.4-inch touchscreen, full-featured navigation a SIRI so you can stay connected and hands-free while driving. Cherokee features Apple CarPlay integration so you can connect to your phone. Another great technology feature of the 2108 Jeep Cherokee is SiriusXM Guardian. This technology connects you to your SUV in completely new and advanced ways. Guardian gives you greater remote access and control, and great driver’s assistance thanks to Roadside assistance, navigation features, and security alerts.
Design
The interior design on the Jeep Cherokee is styled with a variety of lifestyles in mind. No details were spared to make riding in the Cherokee a luxury experience. With a gorgeous array of leather seats and trims available, plus premium features available, drivers will be sure to drive home the best in a 2018 Jeep Cherokee. On the exterior, each available trim has its own stylish and head-turning details. The Escape has a nice list of details as well, featuring a panoramic vista roof, heated steering wheel, and, on the SE model, sporty v-shaped partial leather-trimmed seats. On the exterior, The SE Sport Appearance package includes 19-inch ebony black premium aluminum wheels, halogen headlamps, LED tail lamps, gloss black upper grille with chrome inserts, black roof rails. While both the 2018 Jeep Cherokee and the 2018 Ford Escape both offer nice styling, overall, you’ll find that the Cherokee has more detail and lux standard than the Escape.
Safety
The 2018 Jeep Cherokee offers the ultimate in safety and security. Front and rear crumple zones help absorb energy and redirect it away from passengers. Seven airbags include: multistage driver and front passenger airbags, side-curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and driver-side inflatable knee bolster airbags. Driver assist systems alert and aid drivers in what could be challenging driving situations. Forward collision warning with active braking and adaptive cruise control with stop are only two of the available safety systems. The 2018 Ford Escape has a five-star safety rating and features Advance Trac with Roll Stability Control, BLIS with cross traffic alert, and a lane-keeping system. The Escape also offers the Smart and Safe package upgrade to let drivers take advantage of safety technology.
Performance
In 2017, the Ford Escape introduced a new four-cylinder engine. A 2.5 Liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 168 horsepower comes standard and it is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Escape accelerates at a nice rate, has a quick ride, but drivers complain that it can be twitchy at times, and has a tight suspension. Overall, drivers report that the Ford Escape is fun to drive but really benefits from the turbo charge option that is only available at the higher price point. While the new zippy engine is nice, it is only available on top trim levels and knocks down its fuel economy. In fact, the base model engine mileage is worse than any other models in its class.
The 2018 Jeep Cherokee Trackhawk goes from 0-60 in an astoundingly fast 3.5 seconds. Braking, handling, torque, and horsepower have all been tuned on this model to make this Jeep an amazing driving experience. The Cherokee is equipped with a supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 Engine to make the Trackhawk the fastest accelerating SUV and the SUV with this highest torque rating in its class. Also available for the 2018 Cherokee is Jeep Active Drive, a 4X4 system that features a rear axle disconnect feature that only engages when necessary to improve efficiency. A Selec-Terrain Traction Management System gives all weather-capability in four modes: Auto, Snow, Sport, and Sand/Mud. Standard Brake Lock Differential works with the advanced 4X4 system to give drivers amazing capabilities in any driving conditions.
