2024 Mazda CX-30 vs 2023 Ford Escape

The 2023 Ford Escape showcased a departure from its earlier rugged, boxy design, embracing a more European aesthetic. The refresh introduced a traditional front end with a central Ford blue oval logo and a stylish LED light bar, replacing the previous grille. The ST-Line Elite trim, which we tested, featured 19-inch wheels and body-color mirror caps, giving it an upscale appearance. Inside, the Escape boasted diamond-stitched leather upholstery, though it felt somewhat hard and plasticky. Despite this, the seats were comfortable, and the 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat allowed for easy customization. However, the interior was dominated by plastic, which felt cost-cutting in some areas.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-30 presented an appealing design with excessive charcoal-colored plastic on the lower body, which some found excessive. Despite this, the CX-30's overall look was attractive, with short overhangs, a long hood, and a rakish roofline. The interior exuded a sense of luxury, with style and refinement akin to an entry-level luxury SUV. The gauges were clear, and the infotainment screen was integrated into the dashboard. The CX-30 offered eight versions, with the 2.5 Carbon Turbo trim featuring a unique Zircon Sand paint and Terracotta and Black interior. The MSRP for this model was $34,210, including destination.

The 2023 Ford Escape offered multiple powertrain options, including a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 180 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque, available with FWD or AWD. The ST-Line Select, Platinum, and ST-Line Elite trims featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, exclusively with AWD. While the Escape's suspension was soft and compliant, it wasn't performance-tuned, and the transmission lacked paddle shifters. However, the brakes provided predictable stopping power, and the steering was well-weighted, avoiding twitchy inputs common in the segment.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, with its turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. The power delivery was smooth, and the engine's note was pleasing. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission shifted flawlessly, and the standard AWD system distributed power effectively. However, fuel economy was a downside, with an observed 21.3 mpg on a mountainous route. The CX-30 was fun to drive, offering a firm, connected ride and excellent visibility. It handled back roads with enthusiasm, and its standard AWD and Off-Road traction assist made it capable on challenging trails.

The 2023 Ford Escape provided comfortable seating with excellent ergonomics. The front-door armrests were well-positioned, and the head-up display was easy to adjust. However, the Escape fell short in cargo space, offering 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 65.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. Passenger space was also limited, with less rear-seat legroom than competitors, though headroom was impressive.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 featured a well-designed interior with quality materials and logical controls. The Terracotta leather seats with Black suede inserts added a splash of color. While the interior was cramped, especially in the back seat, the front seats were comfortable and heated. Cargo volume was 20.2 cubic feet behind the back seat, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the seats folded. The CX-30 offered practical storage solutions, though not overly generous.

The 2023 Ford Escape impressed with its Sync 4 technology, featuring an 8-inch or optional 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment display. The larger screen enhanced the cabin's look and was well-organized, with easy navigation between applications. However, Sync 4 was occasionally slow to respond, and the volume knob's placement was inconvenient.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 Turbo models received a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with touchscreen functionality for smartphone mirroring platforms. While the screen was far from the driver, it represented an improvement over static displays. The CX-30 included a three-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services and new USB-C ports. Higher trims offered a wireless smartphone charger and a Bose premium audio system.

The 2023 Ford Escape earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in most tests. However, it received a Marginal score in the IIHS side-impact test. The Escape came standard with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Co-Pilot360 2.0 added adaptive cruise control and lane-centering technology.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 emphasized safety, gaining new standard features like blind-spot monitoring and rear-seat alert. It included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS.