For various reasons, the 2024 Ford Escape surpasses the Toyota RAV4 in performance and versatility. Offering four powertrain options, including a 181-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder and a 250-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four, the new Ford Escape provides a diverse range of choices. Additionally, it introduces the 2.5-liter iVCT Atkinson Cycle I-4 hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, paired with an eCVT transmission. In contrast, the Toyota RAV4 relies on a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an 8-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission, delivering up to 203 net combined hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.

Equipped with available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and sport handling suspension/tuning on ST-Line AWD models, the 2024 Ford Escape ensures superior handling and control. Although the Toyota RAV4 offers available Dynamic Torque-Vectoring AWD and various suspension options, it falls short in terms of power, torque, and towing capacity.

The 2024 Ford Escape ensures an immersive and seamlessly connected driving experience with its array of innovative tech features. Boasting larger displays compared to the Toyota RAV4, it includes a customizable 13.2-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen with swipe capability, an expansive 15.5-inch screen, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, all designed for easy navigation. While the Toyota RAV4 offers a 10.5-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen with voice recognition and wireless smartphone integration, the Ford Escape sets a higher standard for connectivity.

Equipped with Ford’s SYNC 4 Technology, the 2024 Ford Escape simplifies connectivity through intuitive touch or enhanced voice recognition. Features such as hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™, and FordPass Connect with Alexa Built-in and Connected Built-In Navigation enhance your driving experience.

The 2024 Ford Escape simplifies driving with its comprehensive array of safety and driver assist features. Included in the standard Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology are features like a Rear View Camera, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane-Keeping Assist, and Evasive Steering Assist, providing alerts and support to avoid potential collisions. Additionally, Adaptive Cruise Control enhances the driving experience with features such as Speed Sign Recognition, Stop-and-Go, and Lane Centering.

On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4's Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5 offers similar safety features, including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Road Sign Assist. While the Ford Escape also includes Active Park Assist 2.0 for effortless parking and BLIS with Trailer Coverage for trailer safety alerts, it goes further by offering additional features such as a Perimeter Alarm, Semi-Autonomous Park Assist, and 360-Degree Camera with Split-View, enhancing confidence, awareness, and peace of mind for drivers.

Compared to the Toyota RAV4, the 2024 Ford Escape's interior offers superior space, versatility, and refinement. While the Toyota RAV4 provides 69.8 cubic feet of cargo room, the Ford Escape surpasses it with more legroom and an array of upscale amenities. These include dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. Furthermore, the Ford Escape offers over 40 inches of available passenger legroom up front, with the option to slide the 60/40 split-fold seat back for an additional 5.9 inches of legroom.

In contrast, the Toyota RAV4 offers available SofTex-trimmed seats and a power-adjustable driver's seat with an optional two-position memory function. However, the 2024 Ford Escape ST-Line presents a sporty and sophisticated interior, featuring premium appointments and dramatic details. With an all-Ebony interior highlighted by distinctive red stitching, unique ST-Line plush sport contour bucket seats, and aluminum foot pedals, it exudes an upscale ambiance.