2022 Ford Explorer SUV | Pricing, Photos, Specs | Latest Details

2022 Ford Explorer Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Explorer’s 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine is standard on the base, XLT, and Limited trims and provides strong propulsion. A 400-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 is available in the King Ranch, Platinum, and ST trims for those who like to push the limits behind the wheel.

As of the 2020 model year, the Explorer lineup included a hybrid option. Together, the 3.3-liter V-6 and electric motor produce 318 horsepower. The Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds with the right accessories. The Explorer is built on a rear-wheel-drive platform, but four-wheel drive is still an available feature. Every model comes equipped with a state-of-the-art 10-speed automatic transmission. The Explorer’s ride and handling are pleasant and composed, but they don’t do much to excite. The Explorer ST, however, is much more athletic, and its increased power and stiffer suspension make it a genuine performance SUV.

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2022 Ford Explorer Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The Explorer has a wide range of EPA fuel economy ratings because of its many possible powertrain and drivetrain configurations. With estimated maximums of 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, the rear-drive hybrid model is the most fuel-efficient option.

If the hybrid vehicle has all-wheel drive, the fuel economy drops by 3 and 4 mpg. When we put one through its paces at 75 miles per hour on the highway, we found that it only averaged 24 miles per gallon. Our 400-horsepower Explorer ST achieved 25 mpg in testing, better than the EPA’s estimate of 24 mpg.

The all-wheel-drive four-cylinder Explorer was also tried and true. The EPA predicts that the model will achieve 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, but we averaged 28 mpg in our testing. Fuel economy figures for the Explorer can be found on the EPA’s website.

2022 Ford Explorer Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Explorer’s cabin is functional and comfortable, at least for the front two rows of seats, despite its somewhat uninspiring interior design. To access the standard third row, simply press a button on the center console, which activates a mechanism that slides the second-row seat forward.

However, once back there, both older children and adults will find the seat to be too low for comfort. The Chevrolet Traverse and the Volkswagen Atlas are two competitors with larger SUVs that offer more spacious third-row seating and higher quality amenities. In the Ford, we were able to fit four suitcases behind the third row, and thirty-one with both rear seats collapsed.

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2022 Ford Explorer Infotainment and Connectivity

A Wi-Fi hotspot and an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are included as standard equipment. Although visually appealing and reasonably responsive, the system lacks the intuitiveness we would prefer.

That’s where a rotatory controller comes in handy. You’ll need to spring for one of the Explorer’s priciest trims if you want to take advantage of the available 10.1-inch vertically oriented screen. However, every model offers an optional rear seat entertainment system and voice-activated navigation. A B&O sound system with 12 speakers is standard equipment on all Explorers apart from the entry-level model.

2022 Ford Explorer Specifications