Ford Escape vs Mazda CX-5

Performance Power & Efficiency

Having the right blend of power and efficiency is a must when looking at various SUV models. The Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5 give you options, yet Ford does a better job hitting on both the efficiency and power ends of the spectrum.

For speed and acceleration, you'll want the 2.5L turbo engine of the Mazda and the 2.0L engine of the Ford.

While different in size, each of these motors delivers 250 horsepower, although the CX-5 engine requires you to step up to 93 octane premium fuel to reach peak performance. If you stick with 87 octane premium fuel, the Mazda SUV delivers just 227 horsepower.

The gap in performance grows wider when looking at fuel economy. Because the Ford Escape offers a pair of hybrid motors, it will provide much more distance on a single fill-up.

Here's how the two SUVs compare:

• 2020 Mazda CX-5 2.5L engine returns an EPA-estimated 25 city/31 highway MPG.
• 2020 Ford Escape 2.5L hybrid engine returns an EPA-estimated 44 city/37 highway MPG.

Storage Capacity

Both the Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5 can fit your family and friends comfortably inside. What about all their belongings, though? Maximum cargo capacity is a defining trait for modern SUVs.

With the Mazda CX-5, the most cargo space you can create by folding down the second-row seats is 59.6 cubic feet. Ford is more generous with the Escape, giving you the option to create as much as 65.4 cubic feet of room behind the first row of seats!

Towing Capacity

If you've loaded the trunk with supplies and still feel you need more room, you can always hitch a trailer onto the back of the CX-5 or 2020 Ford Escape.

When doing this, the Escape is going to inspire real confidence. The Class II Trailer Tow Package paired with the 2.0L engine results in 3,500 pounds of maximum towing capacity for the Ford SUV.

The Mazda CX-5 doesn't have quite the same pulling power, with the SUV peaking at just 2,000 pounds of maximum towing capacity, regardless of the engine you choose.