2022 Ford Escape SEL: Is It A Good Car?
The 2022 Ford Escape SEL is a popular compact SUV, but is it the right choice for you? Guys, let's dive deep into what makes this vehicle tick, exploring its pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. We'll cover everything from performance and fuel economy to interior features and safety ratings, giving you a comprehensive overview of the 2022 Ford Escape SEL. This way, you can decide if it aligns with your needs and preferences.
Performance and Fuel Economy
When considering a new vehicle, performance and fuel economy are often at the top of the list. The 2022 Ford Escape SEL offers several engine options, each providing a different balance of power and efficiency. The standard engine is a 1.5-liter EcoBoost, which delivers a respectable 181 horsepower. This engine is perfect for daily commutes and city driving, providing adequate acceleration and smooth handling. For those seeking more power, there's an available 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine that ups the ante with 250 horsepower. This engine transforms the Escape SEL into a more spirited performer, making it suitable for highway cruising and more demanding driving situations.
Fuel economy is another strong suit of the 2022 Escape SEL. The 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, making it a fuel-efficient choice in its class. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, while more powerful, still manages a respectable 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. For even better fuel economy, the Escape SEL is also available as a hybrid, which boasts an impressive EPA-estimated 44 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. And there's also a plug-in hybrid version for those wanting to maximize their electric driving.
The Escape SEL's performance is further enhanced by its responsive eight-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and seamless shifts. The vehicle's handling is also commendable, offering a comfortable and controlled ride. Whether navigating tight city streets or cruising on the open highway, the Escape SEL delivers a confident and enjoyable driving experience. The availability of all-wheel drive adds another layer of versatility, providing enhanced traction and stability in adverse weather conditions.
Interior Features and Technology
Stepping inside the 2022 Ford Escape SEL, you'll find a well-designed and comfortable cabin. The interior boasts quality materials and a modern layout, creating a pleasant environment for both the driver and passengers. The seats are supportive and offer ample cushioning, making long journeys more comfortable. The rear seats also offer plenty of legroom, ensuring that even taller passengers can ride comfortably in the back. The Escape SEL also offers a generous amount of cargo space, making it practical for hauling groceries, luggage, or other gear.
On the technology front, the 2022 Escape SEL comes equipped with a range of features designed to enhance convenience and connectivity. An 8-inch touchscreen display serves as the centerpiece of the infotainment system, providing access to features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Ford's SYNC 3 interface. The system is intuitive and easy to use, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone and access your favorite apps. Other notable tech features include a Wi-Fi hotspot, a premium audio system, and a wireless charging pad.
The Escape SEL also offers a variety of driver-assistance technologies, designed to enhance safety and prevent accidents. These features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These systems work together to provide an extra layer of protection, helping you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid potential hazards. The Escape SEL's comprehensive suite of technology features makes it a well-rounded and appealing choice for tech-savvy drivers.
Safety Ratings
Safety is a top priority for most car buyers, and the 2022 Ford Escape SEL excels in this area. It has earned excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA awarded the Escape SEL a five-star overall safety rating, the highest possible score. This rating reflects the vehicle's strong performance in crash tests, indicating that it provides excellent protection for occupants in the event of a collision.
The IIHS also recognized the 2022 Escape SEL as a Top Safety Pick, a prestigious award that signifies outstanding safety performance. To earn this award, a vehicle must achieve good ratings in all six IIHS crashworthiness evaluations, as well as an advanced or superior rating for front crash prevention. The Escape SEL met all of these criteria, demonstrating its commitment to safety. The vehicle's strong safety ratings provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike, making it a safe and reliable choice for families.
In addition to its crash test performance, the Escape SEL's suite of driver-assistance technologies also contributes to its safety. Features such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist can help prevent accidents from occurring in the first place. These systems use sensors and cameras to monitor the vehicle's surroundings, providing warnings and intervention when necessary. The combination of strong crash test performance and advanced safety technologies makes the 2022 Ford Escape SEL a standout in its class.
Potential Drawbacks
While the 2022 Ford Escape SEL has many positive attributes, it's also important to consider its potential drawbacks. One common complaint is the quality of some of the interior materials. While the overall design is appealing, some critics have noted that certain plastics and trim pieces feel cheap or flimsy. This can detract from the overall sense of luxury and refinement, particularly when compared to some of its competitors.
Another potential drawback is the performance of the base engine. While the 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine is adequate for most daily driving situations, it can feel underpowered when accelerating or climbing hills. Drivers who frequently carry passengers or cargo may want to consider upgrading to the more powerful 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. However, this will come at the expense of fuel economy.
Finally, some reviewers have criticized the Escape SEL's infotainment system. While the 8-inch touchscreen is user-friendly, some have found it to be slow or unresponsive at times. The system's graphics and menus can also feel dated compared to some of the more modern infotainment systems offered by competitors. Despite these drawbacks, the 2022 Ford Escape SEL remains a compelling choice in the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and safety.
Is the 2022 Ford Escape SEL a Good Car? The Verdict
So, is the 2022 Ford Escape SEL a good car? Absolutely. It offers a compelling package of performance, fuel economy, interior features, and safety. The available engine options cater to a range of driving styles, while the spacious interior and user-friendly technology make it a comfortable and convenient choice for daily commutes and long road trips. The Escape SEL's strong safety ratings provide peace of mind, making it a safe and reliable option for families. While it has some minor drawbacks, such as the quality of some interior materials and the performance of the base engine, these are outweighed by its many positive attributes. If you're in the market for a compact SUV, the 2022 Ford Escape SEL is definitely worth considering. It offers a great value for the money and is sure to impress with its all-around performance and practicality.