2022 Ford Escape

2022 Ford Escape Highlights

The 2022 Ford Escape continues the fourth generation with no significant changes or updates. Nonetheless, this sleek, compact crossover, including the hybrid and PHEV versions, keeps Ford competitive in this highly contested segment.

Key Details

• Compact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• Four engine options: 1.5-liter EcoBoost I-3, 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4, 2.5-liter I-4 Hybrid, and 2.5-liter I-4 plug-in hybrid
• Front-wheel drive (FWD) standard, all-wheel drive (AWD) available
• 8-speed automatic transmission (gas engines) or continuously variable transmission (CVT) (hybrid/PHEV engines)

Benefits

• Diverse engine lineup with efficient EcoBoost (turbo) and hybrid options
• Spacious and versatile interior with sliding second-row seats
• Available SYNC 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver assistance features
• Comfortable ride and agile handling

Learn More: Ford Escape Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

2022 Ford Escape Overview

Performance

The 2022 Ford Escape offers four engine choices, catering to different driving preferences and priorities. The base S and SE trims have a 1.5-liter EcoBoost inline-three engine, producing 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, balancing efficiency and performance.

The SEL and Titanium trims offer an optional 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-four engine, generating a robust 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine is also mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability.

For those seeking improved fuel efficiency, the Escape lineup includes two hybrid options. The 2022 Ford Escape SE and SEL trims are available with a 2.5-liter inline-four hybrid engine, producing a combined 200 horsepower. The 2022 Ford Escape Titanium trim offers a plug-in hybrid variant with the same 2.5-liter engine, delivering a combined 221 horsepower and an EPA-estimated all-electric range of 37 miles. Both hybrid engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2022 Ford Escape an overall safety rating of five out of five stars, the agency’s highest possible score. In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2022 Ford Escape a Top Safety Pick award, the organization’s second-highest designation.

The 2022 Escape comes standard with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver assistance features, which includes:

• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
• Lane-keeping assist
• Automatic high beams

Additional safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and a head-up display, are available on higher trims or as part of optional packages.

Driving

The 2022 Ford Escape delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience, but some will find the base turbo three-cylinder engine underwhelming. While the Escape is tuned more for comfort, it has some elements of sportiness, especially when equipped with the turbo 2.0-liter powerplant. A zero-to-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds is quick compared to most of the competition, like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. The zippiness of this engine, combined with all-wheel drive, makes the behind-the-wheel experience particularly enjoyable on winding roads.

Meanwhile, the 8-speed automatic transmission offers smooth and timely shifts, helping to maximize efficiency. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid editions provide a seamless and quiet driving experience, with the electric motors delivering instant torque for a responsive feel.

Interior

The 2022 Ford Escape interior is spacious, well-designed, and focused on versatility. The cabin offers a comfortable and airy environment, making the Escape seem larger than it is. The second-row seats can slide and recline, providing flexibility for passengers and cargo. With the second-row seats in their rearmost position, the Escape offers 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 65.4 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. The hybrid models sacrifice some cargo space due to the battery placement but still provide an accommodating 34.4 cubic feet behind the second row.

Higher trims, like the 2022 Ford Escape Titanium, introduce premium features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a panoramic sunroof. The cabin is well-insulated, with minimal wind and road noise, contributing to a relaxing driving environment.

Technology

All 2022 Ford Escapes are equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The SYNC 3 system, standard on SE trims and above, offers enhanced functionality and a more intuitive interface. The system includes Bluetooth connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and SiriusXM satellite radio.

Other available tech gear on the Escape includes:

• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• Head-up display
• Wireless charging pad
• 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system
• Hands-free power liftgate

The available Active Park Assist 2.0 system can automatically steer the Escape into parallel or perpendicular parking spaces while the driver controls the accelerator, brakes, and shifting.

Fuel Economy

With multiple powertrain options, buyers can choose what best meets their preferences. The 2022 Ford Escape hybrid's fuel economy is especially notable at up to 44 mpg. Here are the EPA-rated fuel economy figures for each drivetrain (front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive) in the 2022 Ford Escape.

1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder

• FWD (mpg): 28 city / 34 highway / 30 combined
• AWD (mpg): 26 city / 31 highway / 28 combined

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder

• AWD (mpg): 22 city / 31 highway / 26 combined

2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid

• FWD (mpg): 44 city / 37 highway / 41 combined

2.5-liter four-cylinder plug-in hybrid

• FWD (miles per gallon equivalent/MPGe): 105 combined (electric + gas)

2022 Ford Escape Reviews

2022 Ford Escape reviews on Kelley Blue Book have an average rating of 4.0 out of 5, with comfort, styling, and reliability among the highest-rated traits. However, scores for quality are below average.

Reasons to Buy It

• Multi-engine lineup with efficient EcoBoost and hybrid options
• Spacious and versatile interior with sliding second-row seats
• Comfortable ride and agile handling
• Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver assistance features
• SYNC 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Problems

• Some interior materials may feel less premium compared to certain competitors
• Hybrid models sacrifice some cargo space due to battery placement
• Top trims with advanced features can be pricey
• Resale value may not match some rivals, such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4

Discover: How Long Do Ford Escapes Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Longevity

CoPilot's Take

The 2022 Ford Escape is a well-rounded compact crossover SUV that combines versatility, comfort, and efficiency. With its diverse engine lineup, including turbocharged options and hybrid variants, the Escape caters to a wide range of drivers. Those less concerned about acceleration will find the base turbo three-cylinder acceptable, but stepping up to one of the more powerful options may be necessary for others.

The Escape's spacious and flexible interior is a standout feature, providing ample room for passengers and cargo. The sliding second-row seats enhance versatility, allowing for a balance between passenger comfort and cargo capacity. The available premium features, such as leather upholstery and a panoramic sunroof, add a touch of luxury to the cabin.

While some interior materials may not feel as upscale as those of some competitors, and the hybrid models sacrifice some cargo space, these drawbacks are outweighed by the Escape's overall package. It's a practical, comfortable, and efficient choice in the compact crossover SUV segment. Lastly, greater depreciation means the 2022 Ford Escape is less costly than some rivals.

2022 Ford Escape FAQs

How many miles will a 2022 Ford Escape last?

With proper maintenance and care, a 2022 Ford Escape can be expected to last 200,000 miles. Driving habits and environmental factors also play an important role in longevity. That said, Consumer Reports gives the 2022 Escape a low reliability score (2 out of 5), and NHTSA data shows a pattern of engine and electrical issues with this model. As a result, any 2022 Ford Escape under consideration should undergo a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a professional mechanic.

What are the cons of a 2022 Ford Escape?

While the 2022 Ford Escape has many strengths, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:

• Some interior materials may feel less premium compared to certain competitors in the segment.
• The hybrid models sacrifice some cargo space due to the battery placement, which may be a concern for those prioritizing maximum cargo capacity.
• The top trims with advanced features can be pricey, pushing the Escape's price into the territory of larger or more luxurious SUVs.
• The Escape's resale value isn’t as strong as some of its rivals, such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. This can create a buying opportunity offset by lower trade-in value down the road.

Is Ford discontinuing the Escape?

No, Ford is not discontinuing the Escape. The Escape remains a popular and vital model in Ford's lineup, vying for business in the highly competitive compact crossover SUV segment. Ford has continued to invest in the Escape, with regular updates and improvements to keep it competitive with rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Rogue. Given the Escape's success and its role in Ford's SUV lineup, it is unlikely that the company will discontinue the model in the near future.

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