The 2022 Ford Explorer, a stalwart in the midsize SUV segment, continues to offer a blend of practicality, technology, and capability. This generation of the Explorer, introduced in 2020, features a bold new design, a refined interior, and a range of powertrain options.
From its spacious cabin to its advanced driver-assistance features, the Explorer aims to satisfy a diverse range of drivers, from families seeking comfort and convenience to adventurers seeking off-road capability.
The Explorer has been a popular choice for families and individuals alike, thanks to its versatility and robust features. The 2022 model builds upon this legacy, offering a compelling package that competes directly with established rivals like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Chevrolet Traverse.
2022 Ford Explorer: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2022 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that offers a blend of style, practicality, and capability. This generation of the Explorer was redesigned for the 2020 model year, and the 2022 model year brings several updates and refinements. The Explorer is targeted towards families and individuals who need a versatile and spacious vehicle for everyday driving and occasional adventures.
Exterior Design
The 2022 Ford Explorer boasts a bold and modern exterior design that distinguishes it from previous generations. The front fascia features a prominent grille with chrome accents and sleek LED headlights. The side profile is characterized by sharp lines and sculpted bodywork, while the rear end features taillights that wrap around the rear hatch.
The Explorer’s overall design is both aggressive and refined, with a commanding presence on the road.The 2022 Explorer’s exterior styling is a departure from the more rounded and conservative design of previous generations. The new design language is more angular and modern, giving the Explorer a more athletic and sophisticated appearance.
The available exterior color options further enhance the Explorer’s visual appeal, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle to their taste.
| Dimension | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 198.9 inches |
| Width | 78.9 inches |
| Height | 69.5 inches |
| Wheelbase | 116.8 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 7.8 inches |
Interior Design and Features
The interior of the 2022 Ford Explorer is designed for comfort and functionality. The cabin features high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, while the second and third rows offer ample legroom and headroom for passengers.
The Explorer’s interior is spacious and well-appointed, offering a premium feel without sacrificing practicality.The 2022 Explorer offers a variety of seating configurations, including a standard seven-passenger layout and an optional six-passenger layout with captain’s chairs in the second row. The third row is best suited for children or occasional use by adults, as legroom can be limited.The 2022 Ford Explorer is packed with technology features, including a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Higher trim levels offer a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen, a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, and a head-up display. The Explorer also includes a suite of driver assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Infotainment System | 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| Audio System | Standard AM/FM/SiriusXM radio, available premium Bang & Olufsen sound system |
| Driver Assistance Features | Adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi hotspot, multiple USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity |
Performance and Engine Options, 2022 ford explorer
The 2022 Ford Explorer is available with a choice of three engine options: a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, and a hybrid powertrain. The 2.3-liter engine produces 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.0-liter engine produces 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque.
The hybrid powertrain combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 318 horsepower.The 2022 Explorer’s handling is confident and composed, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering. The vehicle feels planted and stable on the road, even when navigating corners at higher speeds.
The Explorer’s driving dynamics are well-suited for both everyday driving and occasional off-road adventures.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder | 300 | 325 lb-ft | 21/28/24 mpg |
| 3.0L Turbocharged V6 | 365 | 380 lb-ft | 19/26/22 mpg |
| Hybrid | 318 | N/A | 27/29/28 mpg |
Safety Features
The 2022 Ford Explorer is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a standard suite of airbags, electronic stability control, and anti-lock brakes. The Explorer also offers a variety of optional safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Airbags | Multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags |
| Electronic Stability Control | Helps maintain control of the vehicle in slippery conditions |
| Anti-lock Brakes | Helps prevent wheel lockup during braking |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead |
| Lane Departure Warning | Alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Automatically applies the brakes to avoid or mitigate a collision |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind spot |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | Alerts the driver to vehicles approaching from the sides when reversing |
| Driver Attention Monitor | Monitors the driver’s alertness and provides warnings if fatigue is detected |
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2022 Ford Explorer is available in a variety of trim levels, each offering a different combination of features and specifications. The base trim level is the Explorer Base, followed by the XLT, Limited, Timberline, and Platinum. The Explorer Timberline is a rugged off-road-oriented trim level, while the Explorer Platinum is the top-of-the-line trim level.
| Trim Level | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
| Explorer Base | $35,150 |
| Explorer XLT | $39,045 |
| Explorer Limited | $45,430 |
| Explorer Timberline | $47,345 |
| Explorer Platinum | $53,765 |
Competitors
The 2022 Ford Explorer faces stiff competition in the mid-size SUV segment from vehicles like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Chevrolet Traverse. These competitors offer a similar blend of space, practicality, and features.
| Competitor | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander | $36,470 |
| Honda Pilot | $38,170 |
| Chevrolet Traverse | $33,300 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
The 2022 Ford Explorer offers a compelling combination of style, practicality, and capability. Its strengths include its spacious and comfortable interior, powerful engine options, and comprehensive suite of safety features. However, the Explorer’s fuel economy is not as impressive as some of its competitors, and the third row is best suited for children or occasional use by adults.
| Strength | Weakness |
|---|---|
| Spacious and comfortable interior | Fuel economy is not as impressive as some competitors |
| Powerful engine options | Third row is best suited for children or occasional use by adults |
| Comprehensive suite of safety features | N/A |
Last Recap
The 2022 Ford Explorer remains a strong contender in the competitive midsize SUV market. With its stylish design, spacious interior, advanced technology, and capable performance, the Explorer offers a compelling blend of features and functionality. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly vehicle, a capable off-roader, or a comfortable daily driver, the Explorer is worth considering.