For sporty performance and modern comfort, the 2019 Jeep Cherokee and Ford Escape are both excellent options. But that just makes it all the more difficult to choose between them. Luckily, our comparison guide has the info you seek. Let’s take a closer look at these SUVs to discover which is right for you.
Smoothest Daily Driver: 2019 Jeep Cherokee
This competition was a close one, but the Cherokee comes out on top. It’s our first choice, thanks to its roomy, comfortable cabin and high-end options. Both rows of seating deliver long-term support—the kind that keeps you comfy even on long road trips. And, even though this Jeep delivers sporty off-road capabilities, the Cherokee always feels smooth and composed on the pavement.
As you climb the Cherokee trim levels, you’ll find increasing luxury. That means heated seats for a cozy winter drive and rich leather upholstery to impress your friends. We’re also fans of the Cherokee’s handsome details, including wood steering-wheel inserts and a leather-wrapped instrument panel.
Inside the 2019 Ford Escape, you’ll also find supportive seating. The cabin even stays nice and quiet during your highway excursions. There’s one important catch, however: the Escape’s ride isn’t quite as smooth. It’s tuned for sportiness, which can leave the Escape feeling too stiff for some drivers.
Best-in-Class Towing Capabilities: 2019 Jeep Cherokee
Need to tow a big boat to your favorite loading dock? You need the Cherokee and it’s best-in-class towing skills. Properly equipped, this small SUV can tow up to 4,500 pounds, or 1,000 pounds more than the Ford Escape can manage.
Greatest Off-Road Performance: 2019 Jeep Cherokee
For best-in-class performance, there’s no better option than the Jeep Cherokee. This small SUV has the chops to take you through the wilderness, especially when you add the optional all-wheel drive technology. If you really want to push the off-road envelope, check out the special Cherokee Trailhawk trim, which comes with everything you need for rugged adventure, including all-terrain tires, extra ground clearance, and a locking rear differential.
The Escape also offers all-wheel drive, which give you enough traction to move down light off-road trails. But this technology was meant more for safety on wet roads than for rugged exploration.
Best EPA Ratings: It’s a Tie! (Almost)
Looking for the best SUV for your fuel budget? Both the 2019 Jeep Cherokee and Ford Escape earn up to 26 combined miles per gallon. You’ll notice, however, that the Cherokee gives you an extra mile on the highway, earning up to 23 city and 31 highway mpg and giving the Jeep a slight edge in this category.
The bottom line is this: the 2019 Jeep Cherokee has the edge in terms of off-road performance, rugged towing capabilities, and smooth daily driving. It’s the perfect small SUV for drivers in need of a little adventure.