2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2024 Ford Escape

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was priced at just over $50,000 for the base Hybrid LE, with the Limited trim reaching $61,800 in Canada. It featured minimal appearance changes, with a new Cypress Green paint colour. The design was described as over-styled, with exaggerated forms and a lack of subtlety both inside and out. The interior was criticized for its mismatched textures, reflections, and a lack of quality in materials and controls. Despite these drawbacks, the Highlander Hybrid was noted for its quiet ride.

In contrast, the 2024 Ford Escape received a facelift in 2023, which carried over into the 2024 model, making it more appealing with a more aggressive front end. The Escape was available in several trims, with prices ranging from $33,049 to $46,999, excluding destination charges. The ST-Line Elite trim, which was tested, featured a sporty appearance with diamond-stitched leather and tech upgrades. However, the interior was criticized for excessively glossy surfaces and stiff upholstery, which detracted from its upscale look.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with electric motor-generators, producing 243 horsepower. It offered standard AWD and was designed for fuel efficiency, with a Predictive Efficient Drive system. However, it struggled with high-speed passing and towing, and the driving experience was described as uninspiring, with soft suspension and a groaning CVT. The Highlander Hybrid averaged 8.2 L/100 km, falling short of its expected fuel economy.

The 2024 Ford Escape ST-Line Elite offered a choice between a 192-horsepower hybrid powertrain and a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower. The test vehicle featured the turbo engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. While the turbo engine provided quick acceleration, the driving dynamics did not match the sporty appearance. The Escape averaged 9.8 L/100 km, missing its official fuel economy rating. The turbo engine was deemed unnecessary for most buyers, with the hybrid powertrain offering better long-term savings.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid accommodated seven or eight passengers, with most models featuring second-row captain’s chairs. The third-row seat was best for occasional use, and the interior offered standard three-zone climate control and heated seats. However, the third-row access was tight, and the storage areas were unlined, leading to potential noise. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,387 litres available with the second-row seats folded.

The 2024 Ford Escape ST-Line featured a black interior with cloth and artificial leather upholstery, accented by red stitching. The test model included ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats. The front seats were large and supportive, while the rear seat offered comfort when slid back. Interior storage was ample in the front, but less so for rear passengers. Cargo volume was 1,061 litres behind the back seat, expanding to 1,852 litres with the rear seat folded.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid introduced new technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment systems. The Limited trim featured a 12.3-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Drive Connect service plan offered advanced features like Intelligent Assistant and cloud-based navigation. The test vehicle also included a head-up display and a JBL sound system, though the graphics could be improved for better visibility.

The 2024 Ford Escape featured digital instrumentation, with upper trims like the ST-Line Elite having a 12.3-inch display. The 13.2-inch Sync 4 infotainment system was praised for its landscape format and intuitive layout, though the colour theme and integrated climate controls were less ideal. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a Bang & Olufsen sound system available. The test vehicle also had an optional head-up display and Active Park Assist 2.0, though the HUD was not deemed essential.

The 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering a comprehensive suite of ADAS features. It included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist, among others. The Highlander Hybrid received excellent crash-test ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, though some ADAS features struggled in certain conditions.

The 2024 Ford Escape featured the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, with standard and optional driving assistance systems. The ST-Line Elite trim included adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and a 360-degree camera system. While some systems displayed inconsistent behaviour, the Co-Pilot360 technology performed well on highways. The Escape received favourable crash-test ratings from the NHTSA, though the IIHS had not yet rated the 2024 model.