You hear the phrase “it’s not a contest” tossed around, but when you’re car shopping, this simply isn’t the case- especially when you’re looking for a used SUV, a class that’s quite crowded! Two very popular models are the Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape. At our Winston-Salem used car dealership, we’re happy to provide you with the pros and cons of these strong contenders!
The Ford Escape
Let’s open with a summary of the Ford Escape, which hit its stride right as RAV4 was doing the same. The 2001-2007 generation offered a selection of different engines- one 6-cylinder and multiple 4-cylinder choices. The introduction of the Hybrid model in 2005 was a game changer, introducing a vehicle that could get up to 33 miles per gallon in the city without compromising SUV capability.
The Escape did match the RAV4 in National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash test ratings, which should reassure all Winston-Salem used SUV shoppers regardless of which direction they’re leaning, but the Escape became equipped with side airbags before the Toyota RAV4. The Escape also offered anti-lock brakes as a standard feature one year before its competitor, giving it the edge in this category. For those looking for an incredibly safe family vehicle, it seems that Ford was a little more forward-thinking on that front.
The Toyota RAV4
That being said, a used second-generation RAV4 (model years 2001-2005) has its own advantages as well. For example, the RAV4 scored a bit higher on Kelley Blue Book reliability measurements. It was able to net a 9.2 out of 10, whereas the Escape fell short with a score of 8.4. Additionally, its 4-cylinder engine ekes out slightly superior gas mileage than any of the gas-fueled engines on the Escape, so for the budget buyer, you get more distance out of a RAV4’s tank (23 miles per gallon in the city versus the Escape’s 18 miles per gallon).
As is evident, a side-by-side comparison makes this decision a little more difficult, but in the end, it’s all a matter of priorities. If you want further help with your decision, contact us and a sales expert will be happy to walk you through the decision-making process. Who knows- maybe something else on our lot will catch your eye, too! We look forward to hearing from you.
