If you’re looking to escape from the everyday, then the Ford Escape might be the ticket. You know we had to say that. Right? I mean, it’s RIGHT THERE.

The 2022 Ford Escape is a solid little crossover-SUV choice. It has roomy seating, some very efficient drivetrain choices, and good amenities. Between the turbocharged gasoline models and the hybrids, though, the hybrids generally win out overall. But any Escape is going to be able to get the job done as a daily driver.

Knowing all of that, it’s also worth pointing out that there are some excellent competitors to choose from in this segment. So if the Escape doesn’t fit you, there’s definitely another that will. A few of them can match the Escape’s interior roominess, but not many.

2022 is an interim year for the Escape, which debuted in 2020. This current generation of the SUV is more stylish than previous versions and has a good presence. The 2023 model year will see some refreshes with upgrades that will likely include some styling changes and some technology updates. So those looking for the most current might want to wait for that.

Overall, we like the Ford Escape for its focus on daily use and ergonomics.

The CR-V is similarly-priced to the Escape, but doesn’t have the same efficiency options. It’s also cheaper-feeling on the interior and less comfortable to ride in. Still, Honda’s legendary reliability and the CR-V’s large cargo space are big draws.

While more expensive and less efficient by comparison, the Mazda models are far more upscale and spirited to drive. The CX-5 has some of the most comfortable seats in the segment and the CX-50 has solid off-road cred. No hybrid or PHEV option does make for a downer, though.

Easily the closest serious competitor to the Escape, the best-selling RAV4 comes in standard, hybrid, and plug-in formats. It features a similar interior for roominess and comfort and a little more cargo space. It’s also generally more expensive to buy, but comes with high reliability expectations.

Starting price for the Ford Escape is about $29,000 after delivery. You’ll pay about $2,000 more for a hybrid model. Those are expensive starting prices for this category of vehicle.

The table below shows the most common trim levels and how much they will run you.

The current-generation Ford Escape was redesigned in 2020 and saw only a few changes in 2021. The 2022 model year sees some content changes, but nothing on a large scale. The Escape is expected to see a mid-cycle refresh for the 2023 model year.

All three of the 2022 Escape’s powertrain options now have similar trim level accessories as well.

The 2022 Escape comes in five basic flavors: two using standard gasoline, a hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid. Wait, I meant four basic flavors. Four.

The base model has a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that outputs 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed transmission runs the front wheels and all-wheel drive is an option.

On the SE and SEL trims (second and third in the line) there is an option to upgrade to a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder hybrid system that outputs 200 horsepower to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This hybrid setup is standard on the top-end Titanium trim. Then there is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine option for the SEL and Titanium trims that outputs 250 horsepower to an eight-speed automatic with AWD as standard.

Finally, there is a plug-in hybrid model that uses the 2.5-liter four-cylinder from the standard hybrid, but adds a bigger battery and larger electric motor to output 221 total horsepower. Front-wheel drive is the only option. This one has about 37 miles of all-electric driving from its 14.4 kWh battery and then operates using the engine and motor like a regular hybrid model.

Of the four options for the 2022 Ford Escape, the PHEV model is the nicest to drive. It’s smooth, extremely efficient, and comes only in the SE, SEL, and Titanium trim levels. But it’s expensive. Next best is the hybrid model, which is much more affordable and has similar characteristics. It’s a little louder than the PHEV, but feels very similar in drive quality. Both models have smooth CVTs.

The turbocharged Titanium model just seems excessive and pointless comparatively. Both of the gasoline-only options have a clunky-feeling transmission that shifts roughly.

The Escape fares well in crash testing and ratings. It has, however, had several recalls in this generation and it’s worth noting that these are not small, “cover your butt” recalls. Some of them are serious safety issues. So make sure any Escape you purchase has had all recall work done.

Reliability ratings for the 2022 Escape are middling. While RepairPal gives the Escape a good score, Consumer Reports does not. It’s for this reason that we’re recommending buying certified used if a used model is your route to purchase.

We would recommend getting the 2022 Escape in the SE or SEL package with the hybrid upgrade. This has an upgrade price under $2,000 and significantly improves both road appeal and fuel economy. It’s the best value point for the Escape.

Those interested in the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model can expect to pay about $5,000 to upgrade, but will still be buying under $40,000 all told.

The warranty for the 2022 Ford Escape is about standard for the segment. There is a separate battery/electric drivetrain warranty as well.

• Basic: 3 years / 36k miles
• PowerTrain: 5 years / 60k miles
• Battery (hybrid / PHEV): 8 years / 100k miles
• If buying used look at our best extended warranties

There are plenty of used buying options for the Escape in its current generation, which is now entering its fourth year. Most of the deals will be on hybrid and PHEV trade-ins made after three year leases expire. Try to get certified used to avoid issues and take advantage of dealership warranties.

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