Ford Escape vs Nissan Rogue

Ford Escape vs Nissan Rogue: Engine Specs & Options

One of the most important factors that you need to consider when selecting a crossover is the performance. The Ford Escape comes equipped with a lineup of four unique motors, while the Nissan Rogue only offers a single engine.

Because of the discrepancy in the number of available engines, you'll find that the Ford Escape outperforms the Nissan Rogue in almost every performance category.

If you're the type of driver who values power, here are a few headliners that separate the Ford Escape from the Nissan Rogue:

• The Ford Escape and Nissan Rogue each surpass 165 horsepower at the base level. The Escape uses a 1.5L engine to create 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, while the Rogue uses a 2.5L 4-cylinder to make 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque.
• The Ford Escape has an optional 2.0L motor for 2020, as well, just in case you wanted a little more oomph. The 2.0L engine makes 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.

Comparing the Fuel Economy

While power outputs like horsepower and torque are key to the performance of any SUV, many folks prefer their model to have standout fuel efficiency.

If you're someone who wants to make the most out of every fill-up, you'll be pleased to find the Ford Escape offering a pair of hybrid motors. Meanwhile, the Rogue sticks with that single, 2.5L gas-powered engine.

Fuel economy returns for the Nissan Rogue are still strong, despite the lack of a hybrid engine.  The 2.5L 4-cylinder, which comes in every Rogue, returns an EPA-estimated 26 city/33 highway MPG.

By comparison, the Escape gives you the choice of either a 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid or a 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid with plug-in capabilities. The plug-in option gives you a range of electric-only power to work with, while the standard hybrid returns an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 44 city/37 highway MPG.

Maximum Towing Capacities

While it may not be a daily or even weekly requirement, you may find yourself at some point wanting to tow a trailer, ATV, or some other large item. Nobody is going to mistake the Nissan Rogue or Ford Escape for a truck, but the Escape at least delivers sturdy, strong towing capacity. The same can't be said about the Rogue, though.

For the Nissan Rogue has a maximum towing capacity that barely scrapes past the 1,000-pound mark. Alternatively, if you equip your Ford with the available 2.0L engine and Class II Trailer Tow Package, you can expect a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds!

Ford vs Nissan Technology

Both the Ford Escape and Nissan Rogue are outfitted with some fun and advanced entertainment features and technology.

A touchscreen can be found along the dashboard of each SUV. Additionally, each model gives you the ability to pair your smartphone to the vehicle, opening up a world of applications to you, such as music, navigation, text messaging, phone calls, and more.

However, one interesting divide comes in the form of the audio systems. If you generally enjoy a podcast or playlist on the way to work, the Nissan Rogue provides an available 9-speaker arrangement, courtesy of Bose®. That's a solid choice, but Ford outdoes it with a B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen sporting 10 speakers and a subwoofer.

Customizing Your SUV

It's rare to ever see a pair of Ford Escape models look exactly the same. If two Nissan Rogue SUVs go by, odds are they differ in style, features, and technology. To help personalize your SUV, both Ford and Nissan create various trim levels.

Each trim has unique features, performance attributes, and more. If you are eager to customize your next SUV, Ford delivers far more options than the Rogue.

The Rogue has just three trims to choose from: the standard S, the middle-of-the-road SV, and the top-of-the-line SL. Comparatively, Ford gives you nine options to choose between!

The standard Escape is called the S and comes loaded with safety features, a sturdy performance, understated styling, and more. From there, you can choose the SE, SE Sport Hybrid, and SE Plug-In Hybrid. The SEL is next in line, offering a package that veers into luxury territory.

To round out the Ford Escape trim level list, you can select either of these four choices:

• SEL Plug-In Hybrid
• Titanium Hybrid
• Titanium
• Titanium Plug-In Hybrid