Head-to-head comparison: which suv reigns supreme in reliability? subaru forester vs. ford escape
What To Know
- However, the Forester has a slight edge in the latest IIHS crash tests, receiving a “Top Safety Pick+” designation, while the Escape earned a “Top Safety Pick” award.
- 5-liter engine delivers an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, compared to the Escape’s 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
- Yes, the Subaru Forester offers superior fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, compared to the Escape’s 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to reliable SUVs, two names that consistently top the charts are the Subaru Forester and the Ford Escape. Both vehicles offer a winning combination of ruggedness, versatility, and fuel efficiency. But which one reigns supreme in the realm of reliability? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to find out.
Factors to Consider
To assess the reliability of the Subaru Forester and Ford Escape, we’ll consider several key factors:
- J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS): This study measures the number of problems experienced by owners per 100 vehicles.
- Consumer Reports Reliability Ratings: Consumer Reports provides detailed reliability ratings based on owner surveys and its own testing.
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Ratings: NHTSA conducts crash tests and assigns safety ratings to vehicles.
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Safety Ratings: IIHS conducts crash tests and assigns safety ratings to vehicles.
- Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs): The number of recalls and TSBs issued indicates potential reliability issues.
J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study
Both the Subaru Forester and Ford Escape have consistently performed well in the J.D. Power VDS. In recent years, the Forester has typically ranked higher than the Escape, with a lower number of problems per 100 vehicles.
Consumer Reports Reliability Ratings
Consumer Reports also gives the edge to the Subaru Forester in terms of reliability. The 2023 Forester earned a “Very Good” reliability rating, while the 2023 Escape received a “Good” rating.
NHTSA and IIHS Safety Ratings
Both the Forester and Escape have earned impressive safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. However, the Forester has a slight edge in the latest IIHS crash tests, receiving a “Top Safety Pick+” designation, while the Escape earned a “Top Safety Pick” award.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
The Subaru Forester has a cleaner track record when it comes to recalls and TSBs. The Ford Escape has experienced a few more recalls in recent years, including one for a potential fuel leak.
Cost of Ownership
While reliability is a crucial factor, the cost of ownership is also important. The Subaru Forester typically has a lower cost of ownership than the Ford Escape, due to its lower fuel consumption and insurance premiums.
Fuel Economy
The Subaru Forester offers superior fuel economy to the Ford Escape. The Forester’s standard 2.5-liter engine delivers an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, compared to the Escape’s 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Interior Comfort and Features
Both the Forester and Escape offer comfortable and well-equipped interiors. However, the Forester has a slightly more spacious cabin and a more user-friendly infotainment system.
Off-Road Capability
The Subaru Forester comes standard with all-wheel drive, providing excellent off-road capability. The Ford Escape offers all-wheel drive as an option, but it may not be as capable as the Forester’s system in challenging terrain.
Recommendations: The Reliability Champion
Based on the evidence presented, the Subaru Forester emerges as the more reliable choice between the two SUVs. It consistently ranks higher in J.D. Power and Consumer Reports reliability studies, and it has a cleaner track record in terms of recalls and TSBs. While the Ford Escape is also a reliable vehicle, the Forester’s superior reliability, lower cost of ownership, and better fuel economy make it the more compelling choice for those seeking a dependable SUV.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating, the Subaru Forester or Ford Escape?
A: Both vehicles have earned impressive safety ratings, but the Subaru Forester has a slight edge in the latest IIHS crash tests.
Q: Is the Subaru Forester more fuel-efficient than the Ford Escape?
A: Yes, the Subaru Forester offers superior fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, compared to the Escape’s 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious cabin?
A: The Subaru Forester has a slightly more spacious cabin than the Ford Escape, offering more legroom and headroom for passengers.