To combine thrifty driving with a pretty luxurious cabin, the 2022 Escape SEL Hybrid and Escape SEL Plug-In Hybrid are at your service. These Escape models offer slightly different hybrid powertrains, but they’re pretty similar when it comes to comfort and convenience features. Let’s take a look at what you get with each of these compact crossover hybrids.
Price
The 2022 Escape SEL Hybrid gives you a slightly lower price, starting at $31,535. The 2022 Escape SEL Plug-In Hybrid starts at $36,675, but its plug-in powertrain ultimately provides greater fuel economy, as we’re about to find out.
Powertrains
These Escape models have slightly different powertrains. The Escape SEL Hybrid features a four-cylinder engine that’s paired with a battery-powered motor, which gives you a total of 200 horsepower and 41 mpg combined (44 city/37 highway).
The Escape SEL Plug-In Hybrid, on the other hand, combines the same four-cylinder engine with a plug-in battery-powered motor. Unlike with the regular hybrid, you have to recharge your plug-in hybrid via a power station.
At home, you can use either a Level 1 or Level 2 charger to refill the battery. Level 1 chargers will refill the battery in about 10 hours, according to Ford. That figure drops to about 3.5 hours with the Level 2 charger.
With the Plug-In Hybrid model, you’ll earn an incredible 105 MPGe when using both gas and electricity. When the electric motor’s battery gives out, this Escape switches into gas mode, where it earns 40 mpg combined.
However, unlike the regular Hybrid model, the Plug-In Hybrid is not available with optional all-wheel drive. If you’re looking for trail-friendly traction, then, you’re better off with the regular Hybrid.
Powertrain features:
- Hybrid 2.5L iVCT Atkinson-cycle inline four-cylinder engine (200 total horsepower)
- Plug-in hybrid 2.5L iVCT Atkinson-cycle inline four-cylinder engine (221 total hp, 155 lb-ft)
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive (Hybrid only)
- eCVT transmission
SEL Comfort & Convenience Features
Here, there’s virtually no difference between the 2022 Escape SEL Hybrid and the SEL Plug-In Hybrid. In the Escape trim model hierarchy, the SEL is only one level away from the top-tier Titanium, so you can expect a very stylish ride.
Outside, these hybrids catch plenty of attention with their flashy chrome trim. They also include a power liftgate, a feature that comes endlessly in handy, whether you’ve just gone grocery shopping or you’re getting ready for a weekend getaway.
Inside, your Escape SEL Hybrid is tech-smart, with modern connectivity features and a fast-acting infotainment touchscreen. And you can always upgrade your listening experience with the optional Bang & Olufsen premium sound system.
2022 Escape SEL features:
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- ActiveX-trimmed seats
- Heated front-row seats
- SYNC 3 infotainment with 8-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi
- Six-speaker stereo
- Halogen fog lamps
- Power liftgate
- Dual chrome exhaust tips
- Optional 10-way power driver seat
- Optional 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, including subwoofer
- Optional voice-activated touchscreen navigation system with pinch-to-zoom capability
- Optional roof rack side rails
- Optional roof rack crossbars
- Optional hands-free, foot-activated liftgate
SEL Safety Technology
These Escape Hybrids are available with just about every high-tech safety feature you can imagine. The standard lineup helps you avoid excessive recklessness with lane-keeping technology and automatic emergency braking. Optional features include evasive steering assist and speed sign recognition to help you get your bearings in a crowded or unfamiliar streetscape.
Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 Technology:
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning and Dynamic Brake Support
- Lane-Keeping System
- Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert
Optional Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ Package:
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering Assist, Speed Sign Recognition, and Evasive Steering Assist
- Voice-activated touchscreen navigation system
- SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link