2022 Ford Escape Concealed and Visible Trailer Hitch Comparison and Recommendation

Updated 09/08/2023 | Published 09/05/2023

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(174)

$223.26

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(54)

$213.20

Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(297)

$549.00

Question:

I have a 2022 Ford Escape and I am looking for a 2 inch hitch to carry my 2 bikes that are over 30 lbs. Can you tell me what hitch I need? what is the difference between concealed and visible? Will I be able to install the concealed on my own? I am NOT handy.

asked by: Jim

Expert Reply:

Finding the right hitch receiver can be overwhelming because of all the options and information out there, but you've definitely come to the right place! I'll get into the comparison in just a moment but right off the bat I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e89YR for your 2022 Ford Escape because it has the concealed design and a matte black finish which means you're getting a great looking product that will last.

The concealed style (like part # e89YR) means the crosstube of the hitch is hidden behind the bumper. This not only looks better than the visible options but it also promotes better ground clearance since there isn't as much material hanging below your bumper)

The visible style (like part # DR47FR) is more traditional and while there isn't anything wrong with it, it doesn't look as clean and on some shorter vehicles it can cause ground clearance problems when turning into steep driveways or going over speed bumps. Your Escape is tall enough that ground clearance won't be an issue, but it still doesn't look as nice as the concealed which is why I went that way.

If you're interested in taking a step into the DIY world then this is a great hitch to start that endeavor. It calls for using a die grinder to enlarge one of the access holes but that sounds more intimidating than it really is. For a beginner you're looking at a 45 minute to 1 hour installation time which is still pretty great for hitches. If you'd rather not mess with the installation yourself, you can have any local trusted shop install the hitch for you pretty easily.

If you don't already have a bike rack then I recommend checking out the Kuat Transfer V2 # KU84FR since it's very easy to use and is compatible with a wide variety of bikes on the market (as long as they don't have a front fender).