2021 Nissan Rogue vs. 2021 Ford Escape

There is no segment as coveted as the compact SUV segment. Every major generic manufacturer offers a model in this segment, and bad offers are rare because the stakes are too high.

Nissan and Ford have understood this for a long time, as both companies have been offering two of the most popular SUVs in the category for over 10 years.

In fact, in the case of the Rogue, it's been since its debut in 2008, while for the Escape, it goes back to its first steps in 2001.

As for the latest renewals for both products, we're talking 2020 for the Escape and 2021 for the Rogue. So our duo is on equal footing. Which one is more attractive?

The utility aspect

If we look at the utility aspect of each, i.e. the rear cargo volume, both models do well. However, the Rogue has a slight advantage, as its volume is 2081 liters while the Escape's is 1852 liters.

Reliability

Next, it's imperative to take a look at the reliability of our competitors, as this is a major issue. In both cases, we're talking about new products, so caution is in order. However, the Rogue is in a better position, as its powertrain is the same with this new generation... and the latter has proven itself. With the Ford Escape, it wasn't easy with the previous model and many buyers are still hesitant with the new model. This explains why sales have dropped significantly since the redesign.

As a result, the Rogue has to take the top spot here.

Fuel economy

There are a number of different powertrain solutions with the Escape. To find a better fuel economy rating, you have to go for one of the hybrid versions, but the additional price required means that you don't come out ahead. If you compare the engines offered to the regular versions of the model, you get about the same results. However, with Ford, you have to fall back on a 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine, whereas you can enjoy the flexibility of a 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder at Nissan.

The choice is easy here. Ford also offers a more powerful powertrain, but you'll have to opt for a more expensive model to take advantage of it. At Nissan, both the basic and the more expensive versions have the same engine block. When it comes to economy in all areas, Nissan has the solution.

Driving, interior presentation (design, user-friendliness, ergonomics), ride comfort, handling, soundproofing and resale value are all additional elements where the Rogue doesn't have too much trouble when compared to the Ford Escape.

Therefore, even though we are in the presence of two interesting vehicles, we have to admit that Nissan is ahead of the game with its Rogue.