2023 Ford Escape vs 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

The Ford Escape holds a special place in crossover history as part of the vanguard that ushered in compact crossovers as a dominant segment of the automotive landscape. But now, more than two decades after its initial debut, the Escape looks like somewhat of an afterthought. While “Escape” may still be a household name, the emergence of the Ford Bronco Sport has relegated it to second-fiddle status. Regardless, the Escape still sells well in a competitive field, and its available up-powered engine gives it an advantage for shoppers who feel a need for extra passing speed.

Verdict: The 2023 Ford Escape offers an impressive array of safety and infotainment technology, and it’s available with a powerful engine upgrade, too. This handsome crossover should appeal to shoppers looking for an upscale design and a tech-forward approach. However, it may feel a bit cramped for some shoppers, and it’s priced on the higher end of the segment.

The Hyundai Santa Fe is fully redesigned for 2024. It marks a significant departure for the brand in terms of styling, with a bold and blocky profile and stance reminiscent of, dare we say it, a certain British brand known for its off-road prowess. The Santa Fe’s redesign has as much substance as style, with a longer wheelbase, standard third-row seats, and new premium amenities, including a “terrace” approach to designing passenger and cargo space.

Verdict: According to Hyundai, compact SUVs make up 15% of the brand’s sales, and the company expects the Santa Fe to grow that number. Overall, based on our exploration and time behind the wheel, the 2024 Santa Fe’s redesign is successful, as long as it doesn’t overshadow the rest of Hyundai’s lineup.