As family-friendly, three-row SUVs go, the 2022 Ford Explorer is exceptionally quick and capable. Its rear-wheel-drive platform, unique for the midsize crossover segment, will help you tow a nice-size boat. And its spacious, high-tech cabin is exactly what your family needs for your comfy adventures.
What’s new for the 2022 Ford Explorer?
- New ST-Line with exclusive sporty styling
- Performance-based ST now available with rear-wheel drive
How powerful is the 2022 Ford Explorer?
There are three Explorer engine options, all of which are designed to deliver impressive power:
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque)
- Turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 3.3L hybrid powertrain (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)
Most Explorer trim models come standard with the turbo four-cylinder engine. You’ll find the high-performance V6 on the ST and King Ranch models. The hybrid powertrain, standard for Platinum models, helps this big SUV earn up to 27 mpg combined (27 city/28 highway).
Which 2022 Ford Explorer is best?
It’s really up to you to decide which Explorer is best. Each of the eight trim models appeal to slightly different types of drivers.
Because each of these Explorers adds more features to the last, you should keep in mind that the price tag also goes up accordingly (more on that below). And if you’re looking for the twin-panel moonroof, it’s optional on the XLT and up.
Base
The least-expensive Explorer is very handsomely equipped. It includes smartphone-friendly infotainment features, a handy power liftgate, and comfort-boosting tri-zone automatic climate control. The Base comes standard with a second-row bench seat and seating for up to seven passengers.
- 18-inch aluminum wheels
- LED headlamps
- Power liftgate
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- 8-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
- Six-speaker sound system
- Ford Co-Pilot360 (frontal collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, trailer sway control)
XLT
With standard second-row captain’s chairs, the XLT reduces overall seating capacity to six. The XLT also adds to the standard lineup with some coveted conveniences, including sporty roof rails to help you haul kayaks or surfboards. And this Explorer is increasingly comfortable, thanks to its heated-front seats and power-adjustable driver’s seat.
- 18-inch five-spoke Sparkle Silver-painted aluminum wheels
- Roof rails
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Heated front seats
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Second-row captain’s chairs
- Second-row USB ports
- Optional SYNC infotainment with voice-activated navigation
- Optional twin-panel moonroof
- Optional remote start
ST-Line
The ST-Line stands apart from the rest of the Explorers with its exclusive design components, including special wheels and unique trim, inside and out. You also get a longer list of high-tech safety aids, including adaptive cruise control and a surround-view parking camera.
- 20-inch machined-aluminum wheels with painted pockets
- Black grille
- Tinted headlamps and taillamps
- Unique Black interior trim
- Faux leather upholstery with microfiber inserts
- SYNC infotainment with voice-activated navigation
- 12-speaker B&O sound system
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- Ford Co-Pilot Assist+ (lane-keeping system, surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist)
Timberline
The Explorer’s off-road-ready trim model is ready for action, with rugged features you won’t find on other models. The Timberline’s increased ride height and limited-slip rear differential help you go where other Explorers wouldn’t be able.
- All-wheel drive
- All-terrain tires
- Off-road-ready suspension with increased ride height
- Limited-slip rear differential
- Underbody skid plates
- Front tow hooks
- Unique Dark Carbonized Gray grille
- Faux leather upholstery
- Trailer Tow package
- Ford Co-Pilot Assist+ (lane-keeping system, surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist)
Limited
The Limited is synonymous with luxury. Inside, you’ll find rich leather seating, ambient interior lighting, and cozy heated first- and second-row seats.
- 20-inch Premium-painted aluminum wheels
- Leather upholstery
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Power-folding and heated second-row seats
- Second-row sunshades
- Ambient interior lighting
- Ford Co-Pilot Assist+ (lane-keeping system, surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist)
ST
The ST is the Explorer’s performance-based model. The ST boosts speed with its standard turbocharged V6, and it even gives drivers the means to downshift at will, with handy paddle shifters. And the special sport-tuned suspension will have you cornering with confidence.
- 20-inch machined-aluminum wheels with painted pockets
- Turbocharged 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- Sport-tuned independent front and rear suspension
- Paddle shifters
- Leather seating with micro-perforated inserts
- Front sport seats
- Digital driver information display
King Ranch
This Explorer provides a healthy dose of luxury, along with special Western-themed design. The King Ranch also upgrades your tech experience, with a bigger central touchscreen and a 14-speaker premium audio system.
- 20-inch 10-spoke aluminum wheels with King Ranch center caps
- Turbocharged 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- Del Rio leather upholstery with Lasso-perforated inserts
- Multicontour front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage settings
- Exclusive wood interior trim
- 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen
- 14-speaker B&O sound system
- Digital driver information display
- Rear automatic braking
Platinum
When it comes to tech and convenience features, the Platinum is equipped a lot like the King Ranch. However, this Explorer has a style all its own, with posh tri-diamond leather upholstery and unique interior and exterior trim. The Platinum also adds adaptive headlamps, which swivel as you turn the steering wheel to illuminate each turn. The Platinum’s standard automated parking system can pull into a parallel space without your assistance.
- 21-inch machine-face wheels with Luster Nickel-painted pockets
- 3.3L hybrid powertrain (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)
- Adaptive headlamps
- Tri-diamond perforated leather upholstery
- Automated parking system
How much is a 2022 Ford Explorer?
Every Explorer trim model has its own MSRP, so perhaps a better question might be, “How much is a 2022 Ford Explorer XLT?” or “How much is a 2022 Ford Explorer Limited?”
As you’re shopping around, keep in mind that the price can vary depending on any optional features or special packages that you choose to add.
Here’s a look at each model’s recommended starting price tag:
- Base: $33,245
- XLT: $36,145
- ST-Line: $44,745
- Timberline: $46,245
- Limited: $45,495
- ST: $47,245
- King Ranch: $53,610
- Platinum: $52,115