2021 Ford Escape vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The Ford Escape is the Blue Oval’s compact crossover SUV, and one of the most important models in the automaker’s lineup. It competes in one of the most popular market segments of the moment, against popular vehicles like the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Nissan Rogue, and Subaru Forester.

Ford also views the Escape as the de facto choice for a large slice of its customers. After the automaker eliminated sedans and hatchbacks from its United States lineup, the Escape was left as the most logical choice for keeping existing Fusion and Focus owners in the Ford fold. So in a 2020 model year redesign, Ford gave the Escape more car-like styling, and emphasized fuel efficiency.

Following that redesign, the 2021 Escape is largely unchanged. The only differences are new appearance packages and exterior colors, an available tow package, and slightly improved fuel economy for the base powertrain. The trim-level lineup of S, SE, SEL, and Titanium carries over as well. So while we didn’t get a chance to drive a 2021 Escape, we can evaluate it based on our experience with the 2020 model.

It’s easy for a luxury brand to lose stature and cachet, but it’s hard for a mainstream brand to gain it. Nevertheless, Mazda is giving it the good old college try, having discussed its plan to become a premium brand for more than half a decade.

Unlike some automakers that rely solely on marketing to support their premium brand positioning, Mazda heavily invests in everything from design and engineering to dealership facilities, all to ensure there is substance behind its claim. Now, numerous updates to its most popular model elevate the 2022 Mazda CX-5 solidly into premium territory.

Don’t believe us? Drive one of the turbocharged versions of the 2022 CX-5 back to back with a similarly priced Audi Q3, Buick Envision, BMW X1, GMC Terrain, or Mercedes-Benz GLA, and you’ll see what we mean.