A need for the space and flexibility of an SUV shouldn’t mean you have to say goodbye to performance and handling
- A need for the space and flexibility of an SUV shouldn’t mean you have to say goodbye to performance and handling
- Turbo newcomer
- Performance for all to see.
- Proof is in the driving
- Ford by sporty margin
- Find out more about the Ford Escape ST-Line here.
A need for the space and flexibility of an SUV shouldn’t mean you have to say goodbye to performance and handling
Australians love SUVs – in fact, SUVs remain the fastest growing part of the marketplace. And with added space, added flexibility and an elevated driving position, what’s not to like?
Alas, along with those virtues come some trade-offs – in many SUVs at least. SUVs tend to be a little on the dull side to drive and perhaps are not as nimble as some of us would like. And let’s not even bring up the design compromises to which some SUVs subject our eyes…
So where do you turn when the time has come that you need a new family car and the space and flexibility of an SUV, but you still want something, well… that both looks good and is fun to drive?
You’re in luck. There’s a growing genre of SUVs that deliver the best of both worlds.
So for this Head2Head we’ve picked two which deliver on both the functional family requirements of an SUV yet, most importantly in this case, pack hot-hatch levels of performance.
Turbo newcomer
Mazda’s CX-5 GT Turbo is shaping up to be a favourite with local buyers. Now in its third generation, the latest CX-5 offers a turbocharged petrol engine for the first time. And it’s an impressive newcomer.
Priced from $46,970, the CX-5 GT Turbo offers a long list of standard equipment. There are high levels of cabin comfort and refinement. Inside, the GT looks build on the template set by the CX-5 – it is smart, clean and offers a good mix of materials.
Key equipment highlights include a comprehensive infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. Driver aids include adaptive cruise control and must-have autonomous emergency braking.
But while the Mazda SUV’s 19-inch wheels are smart, that’s about the limit of the sports tweaks. In terms of appearance there’s little to set the GT Turbo apart.
It’s only the fact there is a 170kW 420Nm turbocharged engine lurking under the bonnet that gifts the Mazda its subtle ‘sleeper’ vibe.
Behind the wheel the GT Turbo rides well, and feels at home both in town and country. It’s a confident and capable family tourer with a power delivery that’s relaxed and torquey.
Performance for all to see.
If you’re looking for a more assertively styled SUV with the walk to match the talk, however, the Ford Escape ST-Line hits the bullseye.
In fact, the European designed and developed all-wheel drive Ford Escape ST-Line unashamedly presents a much more overt sports hatch vibe, presenting its performance prowess for all to see.
The $39,990 Escape ST-Line differentiates itself from the SUV pack with a unique and sporty body styling package which includes blacked-out grille and trim, a big spoiler, and racy gloss-black 19-inch alloy wheels. There’s significant down the road appeal to this Sports SUV.
And inside there’s extra equipment as well. The Ford Escape ST-Line’s bespoke sports seats feature suede-like fabric and contrasting red stitching – playing straight out of the hot hatch book. Gloss-black interior trim not only enhances the five-door’s sporty nature, it clearly separates it from the rest of the accomplished Escape range.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard equipment too, integrated with Ford’s fantastic SYNC 3 interface. SYNC 3 is an industry leader in terms of its natural language voice interface; it makes tasks like setting navigation destinations and even selecting your entertainment easy – without the need to take your eyes from the road.
Autonomous emergency braking is a key safety technology that is standard in the Escape ST-Line. Other must-haves include seven airbags and reversing camera. And with optional tech package, the AWD Ford Escape ST-Line includes lane keeping assistance and driver fatigue detection.
Proof is in the driving
The AWD Ford’s added muscle is not just for show. Under the bonnet is an engine that owes its heritage to a long line of sporty Ford race and rally winners that have worn badges like ST and RS.
With 178kW, the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivers the same sort of power as a VW Golf GTI hot hatch!
Whether it’s the extra power of the turbo four or the emotive soundtrack from its specially-tuned twin-exhaust, the Escape ST-Line feels more like a zippy hot hatch than an SUV!
It revs quickly and cleanly. And keen drivers may find they can’t help trying to squeeze just that little bit more out of it. This is not your average SUV.
In the bends, it’s better behaved too. Steering response is direct and confidence inspiring. And unlike some high-riding wagons, you don’t feel the Ford’s taller body thanks to canny chassis tweaks. There’s also model-specific spring and damper settings plus thicker anti-roll bars and high-performance tyres.
Ford by sporty margin
One thing both the Mazda CX-5 GT Turbo and Ford Escape ST-Line prove up front is gone are the days when a family car has to be dull. And the Escape ST-Line especially shows you can have your practical cake and eat your performance cake too.
The Mazda’s ability is improved with its new engine, but in terms of a full sporting package, the Ford has the performance and looks to match its credentials. And by undercutting the Mazda by around $5000, it’s better value too.
So for us, the Ford Escape ST-Line takes the win.
Not only is the Ford Escape ST-Line a great SUV, it’s also the hot hatch you can have, when you can’t actually have a hot hatch.
Find out more about the Ford Escape ST-Line here.
Keyword: Ford Escape ST-Line vs Mazda CX-5 GT Turbo: Head2Head