Before you test-drive the 2022 Ford Escape, our buying guide is here to help answer your burning questions. Ford’s compact crossover is a popular city cruiser, but it’s also a surprisingly sporty option. Let’s dive into the details.
Why choose the 2022 Ford Escape?
Compared to other small crossovers, the Escape puts an emphasis on sporty performance, and it even gives you your choice of three peppy powertrains. Where most compact crossovers offer only one powertrain that’s tuned for efficiency, the Escape offers three powertrain options, all of which offer their own unique ratio of power to efficiency.
And, of course, the Escape treats you to rich modern comfort, with roomy seating and options like dual-zone automatic climate control and heated seats. This small crossover is also adventure-ready, with 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space for your gear. Options include roof rails and trail-friendly all-wheel drive.
Which 2022 Ford Escape model is best?
There are four Escape trim models: the base S, mid-level SE, sporty SEL, and richly appointed Titanium. All of these crossovers are objectively great, but most drivers tend to gravitate towards one, depending on what they want in a new crossover and how much they’re willing to spend.
The S puts a low price on a new crossover, starting at $27,025, and it’s also loaded with safety aids and roomy, comfortable seating.
Upgrade to the SE for the SYNC 3 system (including an 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and extra conveniences (like keyless ignition and rear USB ports). The SE also opens the door for a wide range of options, including the Cold Weather package and panoramic sunroof.
With the SEL, things start to get pretty luxurious, with faux-leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power liftgate. And this Escape also has a sporty side, with fog lamps and roof rails.
At the top of the heap, there’s the Titanium. It’s the best Escape for drivers who want all of the upscale amenities, from ambient interior lighting to optional leather upholstery (via the Titanium Elite package).
How does the 2022 Ford Escape drive? How much can this crossover tow?
Unlike most small crossovers, the Escape gives you lots of options. The standard turbocharged engine is pretty powerful, generating a smooth, composed performance. To put more of an emphasis on fuel economy, chose the available hybrid powertrain, which helps the Escape earn up to 41 mpg combined (44 city/37 highway).(https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/PowerSearch.do?action=noform&path=1&year1=2022&year2=2022&make=Ford&baseModel=Escape&srchtyp=ymm&pageno=1&rowLimit=50) Both of these engines come standard with front-wheel drive, but offer all-wheel drive as an option.
The Escape SEL and Titanium trim models let you put an emphasis on speed, with an available 250-horsepower turbocharged engine. This engine comes standard with all-wheel drive, ensuring an extra-sporty performance anywhere you go.
2022 Ford Escape powertrain options include:
- Turbocharged 1.5L three-cylinder engine (181 horsepower, 190 lb-ft of torque) + eight-speed automatic transmission
- Optional 2.5L hybrid powertrain (200 total hp) + continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Optional turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 280 lb-ft) + eight-speed automatic
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
Will there be a 2023 Ford Escape?
Not only will there be a 2023 Escape, but rumor has it that an updated version of Ford’s small crossover is on the way. Although it’s not time for a full redesign, a mid-cycle refresh seems likely. The American automaker has yet to announce the details, but we expect to see new exterior styling, updated tech features, and perhaps some powertrain tweaks. We’ll keep you updated as we learn more!