Truth in advertising: this comparison features the previous generations of Cherokee and Forester, which is ideal if you're comparing used cars. See comparisons with the current generations.


 
Ford Escape SE 4WD
 
Subaru Forester Premium
 







Planet's Executive Summary
Both are designated as "compact crossovers" and are similar in size.  Forester wins many more awards, but Escape outsells Forester.  Subaru's reputation exceeds Ford's in the areas of quality, reliability, and resale.  Even though both are based on passenger car platforms, Escape feels a little more truck-like with a firmer ride and the ability to tow 3,500 pounds (compared to 1,500 for Forester) when equipped with the optional engine upgrade and optional Class II Towing Package. 






Let's start with what they have in common:

Standard Features:
  • Bluetooth phone connectivity
  • Steering wheel audio controls
  • Power driver seat, windows, locks, mirrors
  • 3 year, 36,000 mile comprehensive warranty; 5/60 powertrain

Similar Dimensions:
  •  Escape is two inches wider.
  •  Forester is three inches longer.
  •  Forester is two inches taller.







Differences
Escape 
 Forester







All Wheel Drive System

Forester was built from the ground up with all wheel drive; Ford started with a front driver and bolted some extra hardware later. 

 

 
 
All wheel drive optional. 




















Ground clearance
Subaru engineers keep mass low for good handling, but clearance high for better performance in the snow and off road. 












7.9 inches







8.7 inches




Cargo Space
Escape has slightly more volume.  Forester is a couple inches taller and therefore better for big dogs.  Meet Blue, our Greeter and model.

















 
 
 68 cubic feet (seats down)
34 cubic feet (seats up)
 







 
68 cubic feet (seats down)
31 cubic feet (seats up)




Passenger Volume
Forester is roomier inside for people.





  
98 Cubic Feet

 

103 cubic feet














Standard Engine and acceleration
Ford uses turbocharger to generate significant power from smaller engine, but fuel economy and acceleration lag Forester.
























 
 1.6 liter turbocharged in-line four cylinder with 178 horsepower

0-60mph:  9.3 seconds
2.5 liter four cylinder
Boxer engine with 170 horsepower

0-60mph:  8.5 seconds
Fuel Economy
Forester gets better mileage with all wheel drive than the Escape gets with just front wheel drive!  Forester's more advanced  transmission makes a big difference...better fuel economy and faster acceleration.






Six speed automatic transmission

AWD:  22 city, 30 hwy
FWD:   23 city, 32 hwy




Continuously variable
auto transmission

AWD: 26 city, 32 hwy










Need some extra go-go?
Both offer optional 2.0 liter, four cylinder, turbocharged engines.



 







With six speed
automatic
transmission

21 city, 28 highway

0-60 time: 6.8 seconds
Horsepower:  240







With continuously
variable automatic transmission

23 city, 28 highway

0-60 time: 6.1 seconds
Horsepower:  250






Outward Visibility
Escape's narrow rear windows create blind spots compared to clear glass in the Forester.  Forester is rated #1 among all vehicles for visibility.












 
 




 
 


 

Huge Power Moonroof
Both offer panoramic power moonroofs; standard on Forester Premium and optional on Escape.  Forester glass is one piece for unobstructed viewing.  














 
 







 










Purchase and Ownership Experience
You can buy a new Subaru at Planet, but not a new Ford.













Price
Forester is less expensive, and better equipped, including the All Weather Package with heated seats, mirrors, and wipers. 

















$27,900
















$26,870

Forester models
and prices







Safety
Forester is a "Top Safety Pick Plus."










Ford test results










 Subaru test results
 








Search our huge inventory for your Forester:



    


...Or look at our nice Ford trades...






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If you live in the Boston, Plymouth, Brockton, or North Shore areas and you're thinking about a Ford Escape, please compare it to the Subaru Forester before you buy or lease.  Â