2023 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Ford Escape

The Jeep Wrangler’s roots go all the way back to World War II and the Willys-Overland company. Fast-forward some 60 years or so and we have the iconic Jeep Wrangler JL, one of the last body-on-frame SUVs left for folks who prioritize off-road capability over creature comforts.

Every Wrangler comes with solid front and rear axles and a five-link suspension system. However, some popular trim levels, like the Wrangler Sport, Wrangler Willys Sport, and Wrangler Sahara, don’t get locking differentials or meaty tires, so choose your Wrangler carefully.

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.