2022 Ford Escape SEL: Is It Worth Your Money?

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2022 Ford Escape SEL: Is It Worth Your Money?

Hey car enthusiasts! Ever wonder if a specific car is really worth the hype and your hard-earned cash? Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Ford Escape SEL. Is this car a practical choice? Does it offer the features you crave? Is it a good car overall? We'll break down everything from its performance and features to its pros and cons, helping you decide if the Escape SEL is the right fit for you. So, buckle up, grab your favorite drink, and let's explore whether the 2022 Ford Escape SEL deserves a spot in your driveway! We'll look into all the details and help you decide whether this car is for you. Get ready for a thorough look at this car!

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's kick things off by talking about what's under the hood and how the 2022 Ford Escape SEL handles the road. Performance is a huge factor when considering any car. The Escape SEL typically comes with a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine, which is a turbocharged three-cylinder that produces a decent amount of power for its size. You'll get around 181 horsepower, which is enough for everyday driving, like commuting to work or running errands. It's not a sports car, so don't expect blistering acceleration, but it's more than adequate for most drivers. However, some trims might have a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which packs more of a punch, offering about 250 horsepower. If you are looking for more fun and power, this is your choice.

The driving experience in the Escape SEL is generally smooth and comfortable. The suspension is tuned for a softer ride, which means it absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road pretty well. This makes it a great choice for long trips or navigating city streets. Steering is responsive, although some might find it a bit light. The car is also easy to maneuver, making parking and navigating tight spaces a breeze. Ford has also made improvements to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness, resulting in a quieter cabin. This is a big plus, as it makes for a more relaxed driving experience. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, and the available all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability, especially in less-than-ideal weather conditions. The front-wheel-drive models are also quite capable, and offer better fuel economy. Overall, the driving experience is designed to be user-friendly and enjoyable for a wide range of drivers. The car is also equipped with different drive modes to help adapt the car to your driving style and the environment.

Now, let's talk about fuel economy. The 1.5-liter engine gets pretty good gas mileage, which helps save money on fuel costs. The EPA estimates for the 2022 Escape SEL with the 1.5-liter engine are around 28 mpg combined. The 2.0-liter engine, of course, isn't quite as efficient, but it still delivers acceptable fuel economy for its increased power. Actual fuel economy can vary depending on driving habits and conditions. So, if fuel efficiency is a top priority, the Escape SEL does a decent job. The Ford Escape SEL is easy to drive, offers a good ride quality, and provides enough power for daily activities.

Interior, Technology, and Features

Let's move inside the 2022 Ford Escape SEL and see what it offers in terms of interior, technology, and features. The Escape SEL is known for its well-designed and functional interior. The materials used are generally of good quality, and the cabin feels reasonably upscale. The seats are comfortable, providing good support for both short and long drives. There's plenty of space for passengers, both in the front and rear seats, making it a great choice for families or anyone who frequently carries passengers. Cargo space is also generous, with plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or whatever you need to haul around. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, which is really convenient.

On the technology front, the 2022 Escape SEL is well-equipped. It comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is the heart of the car's technology features. This system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car. You can access your music, navigation, and other apps directly on the touchscreen. The system is user-friendly, with intuitive menus and controls. The car also features Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, which includes things like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to enhance safety and provide peace of mind while driving. Other available features include a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free liftgate. These features add to the overall comfort and convenience of the car.

The Escape SEL typically includes some nice features that make it stand out. These may include heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control. These features enhance comfort and convenience for both the driver and passengers. The car also offers several USB ports for charging devices, along with available wireless charging. The interior design is modern and stylish, with a focus on functionality. The dashboard layout is clean and uncluttered, with easy-to-reach controls. The infotainment system is well-integrated, and the overall look and feel of the interior is quite appealing. Ford has done a good job of balancing practicality with a touch of luxury. The interior of the 2022 Ford Escape SEL is comfortable, spacious, and packed with technology and features, making it a great place to spend time.

Pros and Cons

To help you make a fully informed decision, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Ford Escape SEL. This will give you a clear overview of the car's strengths and weaknesses.

Pros:

  • Comfortable and Spacious Interior: The Escape SEL offers a well-designed and comfortable interior with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. This makes it ideal for families and anyone who values a roomy cabin. It's a great choice for long trips.
  • User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is easy to use, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The inclusion of the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite provides a range of safety features, which is a major plus.
  • Good Fuel Economy: The 1.5-liter engine offers decent gas mileage, helping to save money on fuel costs. This is an important consideration for many drivers, and the Escape SEL delivers.
  • Smooth Ride Quality: The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride. This makes the Escape SEL a great car for everyday driving, especially in areas with less-than-perfect road conditions.
  • Stylish Design: The Escape SEL has a modern and attractive exterior design. The interior is also well-designed, with a focus on functionality and a touch of luxury.

Cons:

  • Base Engine Performance: While adequate for daily driving, the base 1.5-liter engine might feel a bit underpowered for some drivers, especially when fully loaded or in certain driving situations. For those seeking more spirited performance, the 2.0-liter engine is a better choice.
  • Infotainment System Glitches: Some users have reported occasional glitches or issues with the infotainment system. While the system is generally user-friendly, this can be a potential annoyance.
  • Road Noise: While improvements have been made, some road noise can still be noticeable at higher speeds. This is a common issue in this class, but it's worth noting.
  • Price: The price of the Escape SEL can be a bit higher than some of its competitors, especially when you start adding options. This should be considered in your budget.
  • Limited Off-Road Capability: The Escape SEL is not designed for serious off-roading. If you need a vehicle that can handle rough terrain, this might not be the best choice.

Should You Buy the 2022 Ford Escape SEL?

So, is the 2022 Ford Escape SEL a good car for you? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a comfortable, spacious, and technologically advanced compact SUV with good fuel economy, the Escape SEL is definitely worth considering. It's a great choice for families, commuters, and anyone who values a user-friendly and enjoyable driving experience. The interior is well-designed, the technology is up-to-date, and the overall package is very appealing.

However, if you prioritize performance and power, you might want to consider the 2.0-liter engine option, or look at other vehicles in this class. If you need a vehicle for serious off-roading, the Escape SEL might not be the best choice. And, of course, you should always compare prices and features with other vehicles to make sure you're getting the best deal. Overall, the 2022 Ford Escape SEL is a well-rounded vehicle that offers a lot of value for its price. It's a strong contender in the compact SUV segment, and it's definitely worth a closer look if you're in the market for a new car. The 2022 Ford Escape SEL is a solid choice for those seeking a practical, comfortable, and well-equipped compact SUV. It's a great option for those who value comfort, technology, and fuel efficiency. It has a lot to offer and is definitely worth taking a closer look at.