The 2022 Ford Escape SE is meant for adventurous drivers, delivering turbocharged power and everyday comforts at a great price. Our buying guide examines everything this small crossover has to offer.
Key Takeaways
- The 2022 Ford Escape SE adds to the base Escape S lineup with a longer list of standard features and available options.
- This small crossover is a sporty performer, offering your choice of two turbocharged engine options, including a thrifty hybrid powertrain.
- As the Escape’s mid-grade model, the SE is handsomely equipped with comfort and convenience features.
- Every 2022 Ford Escape includes warranty coverage, casting a secure safety net under this crossover’s already reliable performance.
What’s the difference between the 2022 Ford Escape SE and the Escape S?
In the Escape trim model lineup, the S is the base model and the SE is the next level up. Compared to the S, the SE offers more features at a slightly higher price. While the Escape S starts at $27,185, the SE’s extra features raise the MSRP slightly, to $28,520.
So what exactly does the SE add to the base S lineup? For starters, the SE’s tech upgrades include the SYNC 3 infotainment system, along with its 8-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. You also get keyless entry and ignition. Outside, the SE is a little flashier, with chrome trim and 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels.
Compared to the S, the SE also offers a much wider range of optional features. For example, the available Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package can add evasive steering assist and adaptive cruise control, among other driver safety aids. The Cold Weather package makes for a cozier ride, with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start, and more.
Does the 2022 Ford Escape SE have enough power?
The Escape SE can handle your daily drive, no problem. Whether you choose its standard turbocharged engine (181 horsepower) or upgrade to the available hybrid powertrain (200 horses), this Escape delivers traffic-friendly acceleration. With the base engine and the right equipment, this little crossover can even tow max loads of 2,000 pounds. Hybrid models can tow up to 1,500 pounds. Finally, all-wheel drive is available to improve traction, helping you stay safe on a wintery road or avoid getting stuck on a muddy trail.
The Escape SE powertrain specs include:
- Standard turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine (181 horsepower, 190 lb-ft of torque) (paired with eight-speed automatic transmission)
- Optional 2.5L hybrid powertrain (200 total hp) (paired with continuously variable transmission)
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
What are the standard features on the 2022 Ford Escape SE?
The 2022 Ford Escape SE has everything you need for a comfy, modern cruise. This small crossover SUV offers space for up to five passengers, with nicely padded seating and generous head- and legroom in both rows. This particular trim model comes standard with cloth upholstery and manual climate control, but you can choose upgrades like heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control for greater interior comfort.
The SE’s standard tech lineup is impressive, adding features you won’t find on the base S model. For instance, the SYNC 3 infotainment system sets you up with an 8-inch touchscreen and smartphone integration (namely, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). The cabin also hosts dual rear-seat USB ports, making it easy to keep devices charged. The SE also offers a range of options that aren’t available to the base S model, including navigation and adaptive cruise control.
Standard features include:
- Keyless entry with push-button ignition
- Cloth upholstery
- Manual climate control
- 4.2-inch instrument cluster
- SYNC 3 infotainment with 8-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Six total cupholders
- Manual liftgate
- Second-row passenger and liftgate privacy glass
- Forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection
- Lane-keeping system
- Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert
Optional for the Escape SE:
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Voice-activated navigation
- Eight total cupholders
- Panoramic Vista Roof
- Power liftgate
- Black roof rack side rails
- Remote start system
- Adaptive cruise control
Is the 2022 Ford Escape SE reliable?
These small Ford crossovers were built to withstand your daily drive for years to come! In addition to their reputation for reliable performance, each Escape SE comes with Ford’s warranty coverage. It’ll give you peace of mind, with limited coverage that includes:
- Limited bumper-to-bumper coverage: three years/36,000 miles
- Limited powertrain coverage: five years/60,000 miles