2017 Ford Escape vs Toyota RAV4: A Comprehensive Comparison

The Ford Escape and Toyota RAV4 have established their presence in the Crossover segment. For over 15 years, they have been a popular choice for customers in the UAE and globally. Following their redesign in 2013, both vehicles have been refreshed to showcase a new lease on life. Now in 2017, the question remains: which is better?

Exterior

When it comes to the exterior styling, the Toyota RAV4 features a notably improved front-end with sharper edges. The 2017 Escape also showcases a larger grille and muscular lines. While both cars share similar dimensions and design cues, they appeal to different customers. However, the Escape appears more balanced aesthetically.

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Interior

The interiors present a different story. The Ford Escape offers a utilitarian, simplistic cabin with an upright seating position, contrasting with the roomier ambiance and advanced technology of the RAV4. Notably, luggage space favors the Escape, providing 971 liters compared to 547 liters in the RAV4.

Specifications

In terms of performance, the Toyota RAV4 is known for its efficiency and comfort. With dimensions of 4.57 meters in length, 1.84 meters in width, and 1.66 meters in height, it runs smoothly across the UAE. The vehicle is powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 176 horsepower and 233 Nm of torque. Additionally, the Japanese SUV features a 6-speed automatic transmission that enables speeds of up to 200 km/h.

The Ford Escape measures 4.52 meters in length, 2.08 meters in width, and 1.68 meters in height. Engine options include a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder with 168 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque, as well as a range-topping 2.0-liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost turbo that delivers an impressive 240 horsepower and 365 Nm of torque. Both engines are paired with 6-speed automatic transmissions.

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Verdict

The 2017 Toyota RAV4 starts at around AED 88,000, while the 2017 Ford Escape begins at AED 95,000. Both SUVs offer great value, especially at lower trim levels. However, if you can get the top-spec Ford Escape with the EcoBoost engine, it would be a hard option to beat.

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