Ford Escape Active Vs Sel: Which Trim Level Is Right For You? (detailed Comparison)
What To Know
- The SEL trim level with the standard engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
- The Active trim level is a great choice for those seeking a value-oriented SUV with a rugged exterior and a comfortable interior.
- The Active trim level achieves slightly better fuel efficiency than the SEL trim level, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the SEL’s 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
The Ford Escape is a compact SUV that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. It’s available in a variety of trim levels, including the Active and SEL. These two trim levels offer different features and options, so it’s important to compare them before making a decision about which one is right for you.
Feature Face-Off: Comparing the Ford Escape Active and SEL
1. Exterior Design: Bold Looks and Subtle Sophistication
The Active trim level features 17-inch alloy wheels, black exterior accents, and a unique grille design. The SEL trim level, on the other hand, has 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior accents, and a more refined grille design.
2. Interior Comfort and Convenience: A Tale of Two Cabins
Inside, the Active trim level offers cloth seats, a 6-speaker audio system, and a 4.2-inch LCD display. The SEL trim level upgrades to leather-trimmed seats, a 9-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, and an 8-inch touchscreen display.
3. Performance and Power: Unleashing the Potential
Both the Active and SEL trim levels come standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 168 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. However, the SEL trim level offers an optional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque.
4. Safety and Driver Assistance: Protecting Every Journey
The Active and SEL trim levels come standard with a suite of safety and driver assistance features, including lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The SEL trim level adds adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, and evasive steering assist.
5. Technology and Connectivity: Embracing the Digital Age
The Active trim level features a 4.2-inch LCD display and a 6-speaker audio system. The SEL trim level upgrades to an 8-inch touchscreen display, a 9-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, and the SYNC 3 infotainment system.
6. Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Performance and Economy
The Active trim level achieves an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The SEL trim level with the standard engine achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The SEL trim level with the turbocharged engine achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
7. Price Point: A Matter of Value and Budget
The Active trim level has a starting price of $26,395, while the SEL trim level starts at $29,995. The SEL trim level with the turbocharged engine starts at $33,495.
The Verdict: Choosing the Ideal Escape
The Ford Escape Active and SEL trim levels offer distinct features and capabilities. The Active trim level is a great choice for those seeking a value-oriented SUV with a rugged exterior and a comfortable interior. The SEL trim level is a better option for those who prioritize luxury, technology, and performance. Ultimately, the best trim level for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. What are the key differences between the Active and SEL trim levels?
The Active trim level features a more rugged exterior design, cloth seats, a 4.2-inch LCD display, and a 6-speaker audio system. The SEL trim level has a more refined exterior design, leather-trimmed seats, an 8-inch touchscreen display, and a 9-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
2. Which trim level offers better fuel efficiency?
The Active trim level achieves slightly better fuel efficiency than the SEL trim level, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway compared to the SEL’s 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
3. Which trim level has more safety and driver assistance features?
The SEL trim level offers more safety and driver assistance features than the Active trim level, including adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, and evasive steering assist.
