I'd get the Escape 1 and make one change-
Get a narrower range cassette, such as a 12-23/25.
That will give you more "usable" gears without the wide gaps between them.

Maybe you'll enjoy the bike that much more that you'll ride a lot more miles than you expect.

A 2nd change I personally would make is going to a slightly smaller tire, such as a 28mm.