Explorer is becoming the flagship SUV in Ford’s family. The mid-size model is now available with the PHEV system and the next upgrade for the carmaker is an all-electric Mach E. The vehicle was redesigned for the current season, so we don’t expect too many changes for the 2022 Ford Explorer. The company will revisit the color palette, trim levels, and additional options. Nevertheless, the plug-in hybrid system might get a boost, since European buyers are getting the PHEV with 457 hp. In the US, Explorer Hybrid is capable of returning ‘only’ 318 horsepower.
The 2022 Ford Explorer will be one of the most exciting SUVs for building. The company already offers five trim levels and you can mix them with four different engine configurations. A turbo-four, twin-turbo V6 with 365 and 400 hp, and a hybrid are available. The hottest rumor at this time is centered around the Raptor edition. Well, it doesn’t seem so likely to happen, but Ford is well known for its surprises.
Engines and Specs
Under the bonnet of the base version of the Explorer sits a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. The first appearance the four-pot unit had in the latest generation of Mustang. It was a surprise to bring the muscle car with such a small displacement. But, early judgments turned to be wrong. Now, even bigger models, such as the 2022 Ford Explorer are using this mill capable of producing 300 hp and 310 b-ft of torque. A 10-speed gearbox is a reliable partner of all engines in the lineup.
Although the four-cylinder unit is producing more power than some drivetrains with six clips, a V6 is also an option for the 2022 Ford Explorer. A twin-turbo system comes as the support to make the system bursting 365 horsepower along with 380 lb-ft. That is not all. The high-output version with 400 ponies is available if you select the 2022 Ford Explorer ST.
The towing capacity of the smaller block is 5,300 pounds. You can gain extra 300 lbs with V6. You lose the same amount of hauling potential if you are after a hybrid setup.
RELATED: 2022 Ford Excursion Comes Back with a 7.3 V8 Engine
2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid, PHEV
Still, the most exciting vehicle in the lineup is the 2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid. Well, we would like to see a more powerful version, like in Europe. But, for now, this configuration is based on a 3.3-liter powerplant that is paired with electric motors. Power output is 318 hp and the vehicle also comes with a boosted torque – 322 lb-ft. The most important detail is fuel economy. With the RWD, Explorer Hybrid returns 27/29 mpg. All-wheel drive is thirsty, going 23/26 miles per gallon. Still, there are a few drive modes that can change these outputs.
The plug-in hybrid in Europe produces 457 horsepower. A V6 PHEV configuration is also available in the US. Explorer’s premium sibling, Lincoln Aviator Sport Hybrid will deliver 500 hp. Nevertheless, we won’t see the standard SUV with so much power, especially with the ST edition producing 400 ponies.
2022 Ford Explorer XLT, Limited, Platinum, ST
The base package for the mid-size SUV brings a few highlights. A four-cylinder engine is one of them, as well as the power tailgate, dual-zone climate control, 8-inch touchscreen as the center of the Sync infotainment system. The Co-Pilot 360 safety bundle is also there right from the start. 18-inch wheels are standard and the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited increases the size to 20 inches. Between these two trims is the XLT with signature LED lights, push-button start, and USB ports for rear seats. The entry-level option offers only the rear-wheel drive, while AWD becomes a possible upgrade for XLT and higher trim levels.
Besides larger wheels, the Explorer Limited includes leather seats, 10-way power-adjustable seats, and significant safety upgrades through the Co-Pilot 360+ system. The liftgate has a hands-free function, the wireless charging station is added, as well as the premium B&O audio. The 2020 Ford Explorer ST is all about the performance. A V6 with 400 hp is exclusive for this model. Still, there are other features that will make a ride more comfortable. Suspension and damping systems are keys. Park assist is available, and the center of multimedia is a huge 12-inch screen. Sport seats come with heating. Unique optional upgrades include special packages and 21-inch ST wheels.
The top of the range offer is the 2022 Explorer Platinum. Special trimming and seat design will make you fall in love with this model from the first sight. Wooden details are impressive and more surfaces are covered with leather. Quad exhaust outlets and unique wheels will make the Platinum package recognizable.
Prices
You can guess that the Platinum package skyrockets the price of the SUV. Even the base version, without any further upgrade, will cost nearly $60,000 (destination fee included). For buyers looking for performance, not a luxury, the ST is a better and $5,000 cheaper option. The base 2022 Ford Explorer will start at $35,000 and XLT adds about $4,000.