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.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
