2021 Ford Escape vs 2021 Kia Sorento

The 2021 Kia Sorento underwent a notable transformation. Gone were the rounded, less-defined lines of its predecessors, replaced with a more robust, athletic frame that emphatically embraced the muscular aesthetic many American SUV buyers appreciate. The inclusion of features such as roof rails and a shark fin antenna, particularly on our SX Prestige trim model with the X-Line package, emphasized its readiness for rugged outdoor activities without appearing overly aggressive.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Escape leaned toward a sleeker, almost hatchback-like design that prioritized a less imposing stance in the crowded compact SUV market. While it did feature ride height akin to traditional SUVs, suggesting capability, the Escape presented a more understated visage with its curving lines and less pronounced SUV attributes, highlighted by updates like the SE Sport Appearance and Titanium Elite Packages.

Both vehicles aimed at striking a balance between urban appeal and the versatility expected of an SUV, but their approaches placed them at different points on the spectrum of ruggedness and subtlety.

Kia's 2021 Sorento offerings included the notable turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, delivering a punchy 281 horsepower paired with an advanced AWD system, swiftly handling high-speed interstate challenges and providing confidence across varying conditions. The availability of hybrid models indicated Kia's responsiveness to growing environmental concerns without sacrificing power.

The 2021 Ford Escape came with several powertrain options, including the base 1.5-liter EcoBoost and an upgraded 2.0-liter turbo-four in the higher trims, providing up to 250 horsepower. Furthermore, its hybrid and plug-in hybrid options underlined Ford's commitment to fuel efficiency. However, despite these offerings, the chassis dynamics remained a letdown, with ride quality and steering precision not living up to potential—details unchanged from previous years.

Interior practicality in the 2021 Sorento revealed its family-oriented design, especially noticeable in the upper trim levels that featured comfortable captains chairs and limited third-row seating preferably suited for children. Cargo capacity maxed out at 75.5 cubic feet, a modest number for its class, pointing to its suburban family appeal rather than barn-storming utility.

The Ford Escape, meanwhile, focused heavily on flexibility within its compact frame. Notable was the sliding rear seat, allowing variable cargo space up to 37.5 cubic feet or ample legroom when required. Although hybrid models saw reduced space due to battery placement, the design catered well to daily commuter and small family needs.

Technology in the Sorento centered on user-friendly interfaces with differing experiences across its range. Lower trims featured the 8-inch touchscreen capable of wireless integration, while the larger 10.25-inch screen in the higher trims required physical connections for full functionality. Usability quirks aside, its technology suite was robust but could benefit from refinement.

Escape offered Ford's Sync 3 system, which, despite not being the latest Sync 4, provided a solid, if unspectacular, user experience. The standard inclusion of CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE hotspot in all trims brought essential connectivity to the forefront, although it generally lagged behind competitors in wireless functionality.

On the safety front, the Sorento boasted a comprehensive set of standard features enhancing its appeal as a safe family vehicle, supported by top safety ratings from IIHS and a good overall score from NHTSA.

Escape also demonstrated strong safety credentials with a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating, bolstered by the standard Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies. However, headlight variability could affect nighttime visibility depending on the trim.