2021 Ford Escape vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2021 Ford Escape presented a blend of SUV and hatchback aesthetics, with a curved front and sleek roofline that gave it a less rugged appearance compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester. It offered new appearance packages across its trim levels, enhancing its visual appeal with features like 19-inch alloy wheels and leather-wrapped steering wheels. However, the interior design was less cohesive, with some materials feeling subpar, and even the top-tier Titanium model lacked standard leather upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 boasted a sportier and more dynamic design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its low and wide stance, along with features like a lip spoiler and voluptuous curves, contributed to its striking appearance. The EV6's design was both stylish and functional, with elements like sealed air intakes and a wedgy profile. Inside, it featured dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and a futuristic aesthetic that emphasized a car-first, computer-second approach, making it a joy to drive.

The 2021 Ford Escape offered a range of powertrains, including two gasoline engines and hybrid options. The base 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine produced 181 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. An upgrade to the 2.0-liter turbo-four engine increased output to 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models used a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric assist, delivering a total of 200 hp. Despite the variety, the Escape's chassis tuning left much to be desired, with sloppy suspension and steering.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly the GT-Line e-AWD model, delivered impressive performance with its dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, with a top-power GT trim promising even more power. The EV6 excelled in handling, with quick torque distribution and a seamless driving experience. However, its driving range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65 percent of Kia's 274-mile EPA estimate. Charging was efficient, but the EV6's energy consumption was a concern.

The 2021 Ford Escape offered competitive interior space, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The sliding rear seat allowed for flexible cargo space, with up to 65.4 cubic feet available in gasoline models. However, hybrid models had reduced legroom and cargo space due to battery placement. Despite its car-like styling, the Escape held its own against more traditional compact SUVs in terms of interior space.

The 2022 Kia EV6 provided generous legroom and headroom, thanks to its low floor design. The rear seats reclined and offered optional heated cushions, creating an open and airy cabin. However, the cargo space was limited, with only 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 2,300 pounds, and it featured an onboard power generator for added utility.

The 2021 Ford Escape utilized the older Sync 3 infotainment system, with a 4.2-inch touchscreen on base models and an 8-inch screen on higher trims. While it included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it lacked the wireless versions found in newer systems. The Escape Titanium trim added a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a premium sound system, but overall, the tech features were not as advanced as some competitors.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured a user-friendly infotainment system with dual 12-inch screens, though it required a wired connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included advanced features like blind-spot monitoring, a 360-degree camera, and a head-up display with augmented reality. Higher trims offered a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and a remote parking system, making the EV6's tech offerings impressive and comprehensive.

The 2021 Ford Escape received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It came with standard safety features like automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The optional Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features, enhancing its safety credentials.

The 2022 Kia EV6 had not been tested by U.S. safety organizations, but it came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard equipment included lane-keeping, cyclist and pedestrian detection, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added features like evasive steering assist and a 360-degree camera system, making the EV6 well-equipped for safety despite the lack of official ratings.