2022 Ford Explorer review

2022 Ford Explorer Review: 

This sixth-generation Ford Explorer has a strong stance and a sleek design that suggests motion. It offers a much better driving experience than previous Explorers or the majority of its competition. This is the "hot rod" in its class—it's fast, absolutely planted in corners, and holds up well if you push it. This Ford is the one to get if your daily drive includes mountain roads or fun corners.

That said, it wasn't Edmunds' top pick for three-row SUVs at this point in time. While the Kia Telluride surpasses the Explorer in interior space and refinement, offering more room for both passengers and cargo despite similar dimensions, the Explorer remains a strong contender if you prioritize a used SUV with a powerful engine and excellent handling.

The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV that ranks 19th out of 26 in its class, according to RepairPal®. Its average rating is 3.5 out of 5.0. It has about average ownership costs, with an average annual repair cost of $732.

• Technology

• Comfort

• Cargo and storage

• Ease of use

• Driving
  

What tech does the 2022 Ford Explorer have?

Connectivity

Standard features on the Explorer include an eight-inch touchscreen, Ford's SYNC® infotainment system, and integration with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. Bluetooth® connectivity for audio and phone is also standard.

Infotainment

Ford's software interface during this time presented some usability challenges. The system lacked essential physical shortcut buttons (such as Home, Media, Map, and Back), requiring users to rely solely on the screen. These on-screen buttons were not consistently present across all menus, leading to an inconsistent user experience. While basic functions were covered by prominent physical volume, tune knobs, and pause/skip buttons, the screen's responsiveness could be erratic. For instance, while switching to the tune screen was quick, the system sometimes lagged a second or two before actually tuning.

When it comes to screen size, Edmunds recommends searching for Explorer models with the eight-inch option over the 10.1-inch. Despite appearing larger on paper, the 10.1-inch screen is actually almost 1.5 inches narrower horizontally than the "smaller" eight-inch screen found on lower trims, and many users may find it less intuitive to use. Plus, it resembles a tacked-on iPad.

Driver-Assist Tech

The Explorer comes standard with a suite of driver-assist features, including automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, cross-traffic and blind-spot warning alerts, and automatic high beams. Higher trims offer additional features as either standard or optional. While these systems generally perform well, the alert sounds can be difficult to distinguish, and the lane-centering system may occasionally misinterpret that your hands are not on the wheel.

How comfortable is the 2022 Ford Explorer? 

Front Seating

The front seats are notably supportive and comfortable. Look for Explorers with heated and cooled seat options. However, Edmunds editors advise against the optional massaging seats, as their internal mechanism can create an uncomfortable, lumpy sensation when not in use.

Rear Seating

While the front seats offer good comfort, the second and third rows progressively lose cushioning. The third row is particularly cramped, with flat, unsupportive seating and limited legroom, making it only useful for children and, even then, perhaps only for short trips. Though most adults are fine in the second row, overall rear passenger comfort remains a notable weakness.

Ride Quality and Interior Noise

The Ford Explorer delivers a smooth ride, effortlessly absorbing city bumps and offering comfort on the highway. However, the cabin can be noisy, especially with the more powerful V6 engine. Edmunds evaluations also noted some creaks and groans, which raise concerns about its overall build quality. Edmunds recommends a comprehensive test drive on diverse road surfaces to help you form your own opinion, as individual experiences may vary.

Does the 2022 Ford Explorer have good storage?

Cargo 

The Explorer offers a competitive 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind its third row, which is on par with other midsize three-row SUVs. However, this is less than the Kia Telluride's 21 cubic feet. One significant advantage of the Explorer's cargo area is its flat loading surface, simplifying the loading of items. Furthermore, the third row folds flat effortlessly, expanding the available space.

Storage

As with most midsize SUVs, storage in the second and third rows is mostly limited to door pockets and a small shelf. Overall, small-item storage is adequate, with a convenient shelf below the center touchscreen for small items. The compact center console is also functional.

How easy is the 2022 Ford Explorer to use?

Entry, Exit, and Car Seats

The Explorer's wide door openings make accessing the front seats easy. Middle- and rear-seat passengers, however, might not find the experience as comfortable. Kneeroom and legroom in the middle row are not competitive for the class, and taller adults will likely find the third row unimpressive. Access can also be awkward if the rear doors cannot open past the first detent, as space is tight between the large door map pockets and prominent rear wheel arches. While the third row offers a convenient power-folding mechanism, passengers must raise it from the hatch area.

Interior Layout and Visibility

The driver has plenty of room up front and a highly adjustable driving position, which helps with all-around visibility. The large windows and decent-sized mirrors mean you can see outside pretty well.

What’s the 2022 Ford Explorer like to drive?

Driving

The Ford Explorer is an outstanding three-row SUV, ideal for drivers who appreciate a mix of balanced handling and strong acceleration. It offers impressive agility, lightness in turns, and excellent grip, setting it apart from many competitors.

Ford has optimized the Explorer's power, with its standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine easily outperforming rivals. For those seeking more power, the Explorer ST offers a thrilling turbo V6. Both engines are paired with a 10-speed transmission, which provides responsive gear shifts, though it can sometimes be indecisive during city driving with light throttle inputs.

Towing

When properly equipped, the Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds. This is comparable to other vehicles in its class and should be enough for most drivers' needs, allowing for towing a midsize camper. However, for those needing to tow heavier loads, a full-size truck or truck-based SUV such as the F-150 or Expedition would be more suitable.

Fuel Economy/Electric Efficiency

The Explorer's fuel economy varies significantly, with EPA estimates of 20-27 mpg combined, depending on the engine and drive type (all-wheel drive or not). For instance, the all-wheel-drive hybrid model achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined. This is only 2 mpg more than a standard Explorer equipped with the base turbocharged engine. In Edmunds' testing, this hybrid model averaged 23.3 mpg over 610 miles of mixed driving, falling slightly short of the EPA's estimate.

Some engine estimates may appear the same due to different wheel sizes or specific trims. See fueleconomy.gov for more information.

EPA Fuel Economy Estimates 2022