2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 Ford Escape

The 2021 Ford Escape presented a blend of SUV and hatchback aesthetics. Its curved front and sleek roofline gave it a resemblance to an enlarged Ford Focus, yet it maintained the elevated ride height typical of an SUV. This design made it appear less truck-like compared to rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, but it lacked the distinctive flair of models like the Hyundai Tucson. The Escape offered new appearance packages across its trims, enhancing its visual appeal with features like 19-inch alloy wheels and upgraded upholstery. However, the interior design felt disjointed, with low-quality materials and odd design choices, such as an angular instrument cluster that clashed with the exterior's theme.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from Toyota's Tacoma, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that lent it a rugged look. However, its side profile introduced a swooping character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear somewhat bloated. The rear design echoed the front grille, but the overall look felt disjointed compared to more cohesive designs like the Kia Telluride. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash and metallic styling elements provided a unique yet functional layout. The infotainment system was positioned for easy visibility, but the choice of light grey fabric upholstery in the Bronze Edition was questionable, as it attracted dirt and lacked durability.

The 2021 Ford Escape offered a variety of powertrains, including two gasoline engines and hybrid options. The base model featured a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and 191 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. An upgrade to a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine increased output to 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, available only with AWD. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models used a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric assist, producing 200 hp. The plug-in hybrid's larger battery allowed for extended electric-only driving. Despite adequate power, the Escape's chassis tuning was criticized for sloppy suspension and steering, making it less enjoyable to drive.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT. It featured standard FWD, with an optional AWD system powered by an electric motor on the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, slightly slower than its gasoline-only counterparts. The hybrid powertrain provided a smooth transition from electric to gasoline power, though the CVT's drone was noticeable during heavy acceleration. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension effectively smoothing out road imperfections, making it a comfortable choice for families.

The 2021 Ford Escape offered competitive interior space for a compact SUV. It featured ample headroom and legroom in both rows, with a sliding rear seat to adjust legroom or cargo space. Non-hybrid models provided 40.7 inches of rear legroom, while hybrid models had slightly less due to battery placement. Cargo space varied, with gasoline models offering up to 65.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, while hybrid models offered 60.8 cubic feet. Despite this, competitors like the Nissan Rogue offered more cargo capacity.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with ample adjustments for drivers of all sizes. Storage options were plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second-row seats provided generous space and comfort, with sliding and reclining capabilities. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips due to limited headroom and legroom. Cargo space behind the third row was 16 cubic feet, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with the second row stowed, which was average for its class.

The 2021 Ford Escape featured the older Sync 3 infotainment system, with a base 4.2-inch touchscreen. Upgrading to the SE trim provided an 8-inch touchscreen and SiriusXM radio, while the Titanium trim added a 12.3-inch digital cluster and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Although Sync 3 was user-friendly, it lacked the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto found in newer systems.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Higher trims offered a wireless charging pad, navigation, and a JBL audio system. However, the larger screen's glossy surface could reflect light, affecting visibility.

The 2021 Ford Escape received a “Top Safety Pick” rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. The optional Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist required some fine-tuning for smoother operation.