The base engines of the Ford and the Hyundai are impressive. Both models have similar powertrains that output over 180 horsepower! However, the Escape may make your getaway plans a breeze thanks to its 190 lb-ft of torque. How’s that for some standard oomph?

On the other hand, the Tucson attempts to keep up with 178 lb-ft of torque; however, the Ford’s larger figure means you can navigate the highs and lows of your trips with grace and ease.

Everyone loves stopping at their favorite gas station for some on-the-go snacks. Stops at the gas pump, though? No, thank you! Both models are offered as hybrids, which will help you pass rest stop after rest stop.

However, only the Ford Escape is available with a high-performance gas-powered engine: the 2.0L EcoBoost®. This mighty engine generates up to 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. So, when you need an energy boost, the Escape’s steadfast acceleration will infuse it into you! Unfortunately, the Hyundai Tucson only offers its base engine.

Both SUVs support wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, which means anyone on board can connect and share a new playlist, audiobook, or podcast while on the move. Each model also comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen to easily browse apps.

Despite their similarities, you’ll want a vehicle that delivers a crisp viewing experience. Thanks to an available 13.2-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen in the Ford, even your rear-seat passengers will perfectly read what’s on the screen. The Hyundai Tucson offers an available 10.25-inch touchscreen—close, but no cigar.

If you’re the pilot of this adventure, you’ll want all your pertinent information right in front of you. Both models have impressive instrument clusters to keep you tuned in to your drive; however, once again, the Escape offers the better view.

The Ford has a standard 8-inch LCD instrument cluster, which can be replaced with a 12.3-inch display with an upgrade. On the other hand, the Hyundai sports a 4.2-inch cluster on its base trim with a 10.25-inch display available.

The Escape’s larger instrument cluster means you can view your selected drive mode, the current song, or your speed in crisp quality that won’t leave you second guessing.

Ford Co-Pilot360™ and Hyundai SmartSense are the respective standard safety suites in the Escape and the Tucson. Both systems even share a few brand-specific versions of these features:

• Pre-Collision Assist® with Automatic Emergency Braking
• BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Rear Cross-Traffic Braking
• Lane Keeping System
• Auto High-Beam Headlamps

While the long haul is half the fun of the trip, getting to your destination is equally exciting. To help you maneuver into or out of a tight squeeze, you’ll have available Active Park Assist 2.0 in the Ford and available Remote Smart Parking Assist in the Hyundai.

Sometimes you need to stop short. Maybe you didn’t notice the pace of traffic had changed due to a quick stoplight. Perhaps an obstruction has slowed drivers on the highway. When you need to avoid an accident quickly and effectively, Ford’s available Evasive Steering Assist feature will lend a hand.

While this feature does not steer for you, it will prompt you to take immediate action when the warning system is triggered. Additional steering support may also be provided.

With the Hyundai, you’ll be left to your own devices and expertise to get out of a potential jam.