2022 Ford Explorer

History/Overview

The Explorer is the linchpin of Ford’s utility vehicle lineup, a mid-size model that toes the line between car-like crossovers and truck-based SUVs. The current Explorer debuted in 2020 as the sixth generation of a vehicle that helped create the SUV craze in the 1990s.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

For 2022, Ford has added an ST-Line trim level, which combines the sportier look of the speedy ST variant with the entry-level model’s powertrain and chassis tuning.

Available Trims

ST-Line becomes the Explorer’s sixth distinct trim, joining XLT, Timberline, Limited, ST, and Platinum. Most Explorer grades are powered by a 2.3L turbo four-cylinder engine, a 10-speed transmission, and standard AWD. Limited can be optioned with a gas-electric hybrid setup that uses a 3.3L V6, and ST and Platinum get a 3.0L turbo V6.

Standard Features

XLT trim comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, three-zone A/C with rear-seat controls, passive keyless entry, six-speaker audio, second-row captains’ chairs, heated front seats, auto on/off LED headlights and fog lights, LED taillights, power tailgate, heated side mirrors, and an 8.0-inch infotainment display.

The Explorer’s standard safety suite comprises lane keeping assist, rear parking sensors, forward collision mitigation, blind spot monitor, and automatic high beams.

Timberline reverts to 18-inch wheels, and gains remote engine start, heated steering wheel, navigation, heated second-row seats, and an enhanced safety suite called Co-Pilot 360 Assist+. This trim also offers more ground clearance and underbody protection for light off-road driving.

ST-Line adds 20-inch wheels, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, 360-degree cameras, wireless phone charging, ambient lighting, garage door remote, 12-speaker audio, and rain-sensing wipers.

Limited rides on 20-inch wheels and gets front parking sensors, electric steering wheel adjustments, power-folding second- and third-row seats, ventilated front seats, hands-free tailgate, and power-folding side mirrors.

ST gains active park assist, reverse brake assist, and a digital gauge cluster.

Finally, Platinum uses 21-inch wheels, and adds a dual-panel sunroof, and 14-speaker audio.

Key Options

XLT can add the Co-Pilot 360 Assist+ suite, and a convenience package.

ST offers a premium technology package; XLT, ST-Line, and Limited can add a class IV towing package.

Fuel Economy

Explorer fuel consumption is rated at 11.7/8.6 L/100 km (city/highway) with the 2.3L engine, and 12.2/10.5 L/100 km in Timberline trim. Explorer Hybrid estimates are 10.1/9.0 L/100 km (city/highway), and ST and Platinum are rated for 13.4/9.8 L/100 km.

Competition

The Ford Explorer competes against the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Dodge Durango, Nissan Pathfinder, Subaru Ascent, Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Telluride.