Escape vs CX-50 Hybrid
If you’re shopping for a car in the compact suv class, the Escape and the CX-50 Hybrid are likely both on your shortlist. This is less a contest than a fine-tuning exercise: both cover the same ground, with only a few meaningful gaps.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance CX-50 Hybrid wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
Key Differences
-
The CX-50 Hybrid has 39 hp more power
Here the CX-50 Hybrid pulls well ahead of the Escape, with 219 hp compared to 180 hp. The CX-50 Hybrid’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | Escape | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.8 in |
Engine & Performance
CX-50 Hybrid leads
When it comes to engine & performance, the CX-50 Hybrid is comfortably ahead. The CX-50 Hybrid adds 39 hp more power. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels. Weighing only engine & performance, the CX-50 Hybrid comes out ahead.
Total system output
Escape: 180 hp CX-50 Hybrid: 219 hp More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
You can skip ahead if space & practicality was your deciding factor: the two are evenly matched here. This section won’t settle the choice, so weigh the other areas more heavily.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Evenly matched is the fairest summary of the off-road & towing section. Either car will serve you equally well on off-road & towing.
Safety & Tech
The safety & tech data here comes as names and types, not scores. Check the table to see what each one uses.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Escape | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Hybrid |
| Engine | 1.5L turbo I3 | 2.5L I4 hybrid |
| Total system output | 180 hp | 219 hp (winner) |
| Torque | 199 lb-ft | N/A (not specified) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | eCVT |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD available) | AWD |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Escape | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | N/A (not specified) | 38 mpg |
| Fuel economy (city) | N/A (not specified) | 39 mpg |
| Fuel economy (highway) | N/A (not specified) | 37 mpg |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Escape | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | 37.5 cu ft | N/A (not specified) |
| Cargo (seats folded) | 65.4 cu ft | N/A (not specified) |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Escape | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Escape | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | Escape | CX-50 Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | N/A (not specified) | 110.8 in |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the CX-50 Hybrid if…
- you want more power (219 hp vs 180 hp)
- you’re loyal to Mazda and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the Escape or the CX-50 Hybrid?
On the specs compared here, the CX-50 Hybrid makes more sense for most buyers; the Escape doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Let me cut through the brand noise around the Escape and the CX-50 Hybrid. The CX-50 Hybrid earns my vote first and foremost with 39 hp more power.
The Escape is for you if the things a spec sheet can’t capture tops your list; the CX-50 Hybrid is for you if engine & performance does.
My pick: the CX-50 Hybrid.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.