The Ford Escape has been around since the turn of the millennium and it’s still going strong, thanks to its versatility and spacious cabin. The Escape has expanded its availability in recent years and now comes in three different body types: ute (cab-forward), passenger, and a hybrid version.
Each model comes equipped with standard safety features that include rearview camera, traction control, hill start assist, crash alerts, and more. Because the Escape is one of Ford’s most popular models, it’s no surprise there are several trim levels to choose from.
The newest model is the 2022 Ford Escape SE that delivers a variety of features for an affordable price tag. Let’s take a closer look at what sets this new SUV apart from other models on the market:
New Features on the 2022 Ford Escape SE
The newest Escape is an affordable compact SUV that starts at a little over $25,000. With the SE trim level, you get features like a remote start with climate control, 16-inch painted aluminum wheels, SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities, and LED lighting all around.
If these features aren’t enough to spark your interest, there are even more upgraded features you can add to the Escape SE.
These include adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality, panoramic vista roof with power tilt/slide moonroof, heated leather seating, and so much more. **All of this for less than $30K!**
Exterior Design
The exterior design is modern and sleek. This Escape SE is available in two-tone paint schemes; the top color will be a coppery gold while the bottom is dark gray. The Escape SE also has LED daytime running lamps (DRLs) and LED headlights that provide excellent visibility during nighttime driving.
Interior Design
The 2022 Ford Escape SE has a cabin that seats five passengers, with three rows of seating. The middle row will include a bench-style seat with an easy-to-fold mechanism that allows for additional storage space. The seats are trimmed with cloth inserts and the flooring is covered in carpeting.
Standard features on the SE trim include Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM satellite radio, remote keyless entry, a rearview camera, and more.
Engine and Performance
The Escape SE comes equipped with a 2.5l four-cylinder engine that offers best-in-class fuel economy, low emissions, and responsive performance. This engine can be paired with either a six-speed automatic gear box or an optional six-speed manual transmission.
Pros: What We Like About the 2022 Ford Escape SE
The new Ford Escape SE is designed for a more affordable price point, which makes it more accessible to drivers.
The vehicle has a competitive starting MSRP of $26,345 and offers an impressive variety of features that include remote start, an 8-inch touchscreen interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, heated mirrors, leather upholstery, rain sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, and a 17-speaker Sony audio system.
Cons: What We Don’t Like About the Escape SE
Although the 2022 Ford Escape SE provides a great balance of affordability, safety, and stylish design, there are a few drawbacks. The least expensive trim level does not come with a rearview camera or automatic climate control.
If you’re looking for convenience features like keyless entry, navigation system, and heated seats, you will need to upgrade to higher trim levels. We also noticed that the Escape’s battery life is not as good as other models on the market.
Key Features of the 2022 Ford Escape SE
- 4-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower
- Optional turbocharged engine with 252 horsepower
- 1.5L EcoBoost with 245 hp and .35 L EcoBoost with 182 hp
- Six speed manual or six speed automatic transmission
- Active Exhaust System with Sport mode
- Hill descent control system
- Perpendicular Park Assist with 360 degree camera and sensors for easy parking
- Automatic climate control for driver and front passenger seats
- 12-inch display screen in the center console that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (standard on SE)
- Standard SYNC3 voice-activated infotainment system that can be upgraded to include navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot, SiriusXM, HD Radio, and more (available on SE)
Standard Equipment
The 2022 Ford Escape SE comes with a number of standard features that include:
- Bluetooth for hands-free communication
- Power driver seat
- Front bucket seats with center armrest
- Air conditioning
- Steering wheel mounted audio controls
- Tilt and telescopic steering column
- Heated exterior mirrors
New features for the Escape SE
The 2022 Ford Escape SE is the newest SUV on the market and it has some cool new features. For starters, the SE model comes with a two-tone exterior that gives it a sporty look. You also get a power liftgate, heated mirrors and seats, and hill start assist.
In addition to the standard safety features found on all models, the Escape SE comes with reverse sensing system, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, emergency brake assist, reflective mirror coating for better visibility at night, lane keep assist system (LKAS), auto high beams, rain sensing wipers, and more.
Lastly, there are three different options for your escape: SEL (midgrade), Titanium (top of the line) and Limited (luxury). This gives you more options to choose from depending on your budget.
New Body Style and Design
The 2022 Ford Escape SE is the first SUV to come equipped with a completely new body style. It’s been designed for the modern family, providing an upscale cabin and smart connectivity features. You can sync your voice-activated phone or music device with the car so you don’t have to take your hands off the wheel.