2022 Jeep Wrangler vs 2023 Ford Escape

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler offered a choice between the classic two-door and the more practical four-door models, each with a variety of powertrains, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, gasoline V6, turbodiesel V6, gas V8, and a plug-in hybrid. The standard six-speed manual transmission could be upgraded to an eight-speed automatic, and four-wheel drive was a given, with multiple systems available depending on the trim. The Wrangler came in four core trims: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, with numerous special editions like the High Tide model, which featured a body-color hardtop, LED lighting, and the Xtreme Recon package. Despite its rugged appeal, the Wrangler's interior remained basic, with durable materials and practical features like floor drain plugs, but it lacked the plushness expected at its price point.

In contrast, the 2023 Ford Escape embraced a more European design language, moving away from the rugged, boxy aesthetic of its predecessors. The refreshed model featured a traditional front end with a stylish LED light bar and a range of trims from Active to ST-Line Elite. The ST-Line Elite trim, which we tested, boasted 19-inch wheels and a sleek design, giving it an upscale appearance akin to a Mazda CX-5. Inside, the Escape offered diamond-stitched leather upholstery, though it felt hard and plasticky. The seats were comfortable, and the 10-way power adjustable driver's seat made long drives pleasant. However, the interior was dominated by plastic, which felt cost-cutting in some areas.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide was equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine featuring eTorque mild-hybrid electrification, producing 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 260 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission was a mandatory upgrade, and the Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system was optional. Despite an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving, the Wrangler averaged 16.8 mpg over a week of testing. Known for its unique driving experience, the Wrangler was loud, with vague steering and a rough ride, but it offered an immersive off-road adventure that appealed to enthusiasts.

The 2023 Ford Escape offered two engine options: a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder with 180 horsepower and 199 pound-feet of torque, and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. The latter, available on higher trims like the ST-Line Elite, provided better acceleration and was paired with AWD. While the Escape wasn't a performance crossover, its soft suspension and well-weighted steering made it comfortable for daily driving. The brakes were predictable, and the suspension handled rough roads well, though the transmission lacked performance tuning.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler's raised suspension made entry and exit challenging, especially for shorter individuals. The interior featured durable cloth upholstery and a mix of plastic and rubber materials, with some padded areas for comfort. Visibility varied, with excellent views in some areas but compromised in others. Rear-seat passengers faced similar entry challenges but found comfortable accommodations once inside. Cargo space was 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with the seat folded, though the heavy tailgate required caution when opening.

The 2023 Ford Escape provided comfortable seating with excellent ergonomics, though cargo space was limited compared to competitors. It offered 37.5 cubic feet of storage behind the second row and 65.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. Passenger space was adequate, with good headroom and padded front-seat backs to maximize rear-seat legroom. The Escape's interior was well-designed for daily use, though it might feel cramped during larger moves.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide, based on the Sport S trim, featured a 7-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. While it lacked the optional Uconnect 8.4 system with satellite radio and navigation, streaming services and smartphone integration sufficed. Additional tech included remote engine start, satellite radio, and a passive keyless entry system. The Cold Weather Group added heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, enhancing open-air driving comfort.

The 2023 Ford Escape impressed with its Sync 4 system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 13.2-inch screen on higher trims like the ST-Line Elite. The larger screen enhanced the cabin's look and offered intuitive navigation with individual tiles for various functions. While Sync 4 was occasionally slow to respond, its layout and features were user-friendly. Minor annoyances included the volume knob's placement, but overall, the tech package was impressive.

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler High Tide included the Safety Group and Advanced Safety Group, offering features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Wrangler's safety ratings were lacking, with a three-star NHTSA rollover rating and Marginal IIHS ratings in some tests. Safety features were optional, and the Wrangler required careful driving due to its design.

The 2023 Ford Escape received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with high scores in frontal and side-crash tests. The IIHS rated it Good in most tests, though it received a Marginal score in the updated side-impact test. Standard Co-Pilot360 included advanced driver assistance systems like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 2.0 added features like adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera, enhancing safety and convenience.