The 2021 Ford Escape's #10 ranking is based on its score within the Compact SUVs category. Currently the Ford Escape has a score of 7.9 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 26 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Good cargo capacity User-friendly infotainment system Well-balanced ride and handling
Cons Cheap cabin materials Transmission sometimes hunts for the right gear
Ford has expanded the availability of the hybrid powertrain to the SE and SEL trims for 2021; it's now standard on the top-spec Titanium model. Elsewhere, adaptive cruise control and a traffic-sign recognition feature join the optional Co-Pilot360 Plus package; a hands-free power liftgate and memory settings for the driver's seat and exterior mirrors are now part of the Technology package; and a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, a keyless-entry keypad, and LED exterior lighting are now on the list of features in the Convenience package. A new 19-inch wheel design is optional on the Titanium model, and a Class II Trailer Tow package is now available on Escapes with the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
Pros Handsomely styled exterior, multiple powertrain options, safety tech comes standard.
Cons Cheap interior on base models, rough-edged base three-cylinder engine, high starting price.
For 2021 Hybrid powertrain now available on SEL trim.Traffic sign recognition added to models with adaptive cruise control.Minor shuffling of trim and package features.
Pros Roomy and comfortable seating Smooth ride quality Easy-to-use controls Available hybrid powertrain that gets around 40 mpg
Cons Transmission's abrupt shifts Lackluster handling
The 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport's #13 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport has a score of 6.8 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 71 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Good amount of cargo space Straightforward infotainment controls Lengthy warranty
Cons Firm ride Ponderous handling Sluggish base engine Subpar fuel economy
For 2021 Newly standard features, including forward collision mitigation and lane departure warning, LE trim level replaces the SP trim, Black Edition model no longer available.
Pros Well equipped for the price Excellent warranty coverage
Cons The ride is rough over bumpy roads Many interior materials look and feel cheap Transmission is aggravatingly slow to respond Raucous drone while accelerating, especially with 2.0-liter engine
After the previous model year underwent a transformative facelift, the 2021 Outlander Sport receives a handful of new features. All models now have automatic high-beams, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, and lane-departure warning. The base model also now has LED fog lights, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The LE trim gains black 18-inch wheels, a black grille and door mirrors, and a Limited Edition badge. Inside, the upholstery now has red contrast stitching.
Pros Available all-wheel drive, standard active-safety features, noteworthy powertrain warranty.
Cons Lacks refinement, bargain-basement interior, pricier than many nicer alternatives.
