2022 Ford Explorer Review: Is It Worth Buying?

Hey guys, let's dive into a detailed review of the 2022 Ford Explorer. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV, you've probably considered this popular model. I'll break down everything from its performance and features to its pros and cons, helping you decide if the 2022 Explorer is the right fit for you. This article is all about giving you the lowdown on whether the 2022 Ford Explorer is a good car, so you can make an informed decision. We'll cover everything from the engine options and interior comfort to the technology and safety features. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of what makes the Explorer tick and whether it aligns with your needs and preferences. So, buckle up, and let's explore the 2022 Ford Explorer together!

Performance and Driving Experience

First things first: performance. The 2022 Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, catering to different driving styles and needs. The base engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, which is a solid choice for everyday driving. It provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for city driving and highway cruising. For those seeking more power, the Explorer offers a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, available in certain trims. This engine delivers significantly more horsepower and torque, providing quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. If you prioritize fuel economy, there's also a hybrid option, combining a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor. The hybrid model offers impressive fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for eco-conscious buyers. The Explorer's driving dynamics are generally considered to be composed and comfortable. The suspension is well-tuned, absorbing bumps and providing a smooth ride, which is ideal for long journeys. The steering is responsive, offering decent feedback and making the SUV easy to maneuver in various driving conditions. The Explorer also boasts available all-wheel drive, providing enhanced traction and stability in challenging weather conditions, like rain or snow. This is a great feature for those living in areas with unpredictable weather. One thing to note is that some reviewers have commented on the sometimes-delayed response from the transmission, but overall, the driving experience is positive. The 2022 Explorer's engine options and driving characteristics make it a versatile choice, suitable for various driving needs. You can choose an engine that best fits your lifestyle, whether you're prioritizing fuel efficiency, performance, or a balance of both. For families or individuals who frequently take road trips, the comfortable ride and composed handling will be appreciated. The Explorer's ability to handle different driving scenarios makes it a compelling option in the mid-size SUV segment. I'd give the 2022 Ford Explorer a solid score for its performance and driving experience. Guys, it's a solid performer.

Engine Options and Fuel Economy

Let's break down the engine options a bit further, shall we? As mentioned, the base 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is a workhorse. It produces around 300 horsepower, giving you enough oomph for daily commutes and family trips. Fuel economy is pretty decent, averaging around 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, depending on whether you opt for rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. If you crave more power, the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 is where it's at. This engine cranks out over 400 horsepower in the ST and Platinum trims, providing exhilarating acceleration. However, this extra power does come with a hit to fuel economy. Expect around 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the Explorer Hybrid is a fantastic option. It combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined fuel economy of around 27 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. This is a significant improvement over the gasoline-only models, making it a great choice for those who want to save money on gas and reduce their environmental impact. The Explorer Hybrid doesn't sacrifice much in terms of performance either. It still provides ample power for everyday driving, and the transition between the gasoline engine and electric motor is seamless. When it comes to real-world fuel economy, it's essential to consider your driving habits and conditions. City driving tends to be less fuel-efficient than highway driving, and aggressive acceleration can also impact your fuel consumption. Always check the EPA estimates for the specific configuration you're considering and consider reading owner reviews for real-world fuel economy insights.

Interior Comfort and Features

Alright, let's talk about the inside! The interior comfort and features of the 2022 Ford Explorer are a major selling point. The cabin is spacious, offering ample room for passengers in both the front and rear rows. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long journeys, and the available leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury. The Explorer also features a third-row seat, making it suitable for larger families or those who frequently transport extra passengers. However, the third row is best suited for children or smaller adults, as legroom can be limited. The overall build quality is good, with a mix of soft-touch materials and durable plastics. The design is modern and functional, with an intuitive layout that makes it easy to operate the various controls. The Explorer comes well-equipped with a range of standard features, including an infotainment system with a touchscreen display, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a suite of advanced safety features. Higher trim levels offer additional features, such as a larger touchscreen, a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a variety of driver-assistance technologies. Storage space is plentiful, with plenty of cubbies, cupholders, and a large cargo area. The cargo capacity is generous, even with all three rows of seats in use. With the rear seats folded down, the Explorer offers a vast amount of cargo space, making it easy to haul luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The interior features and comfort levels of the 2022 Ford Explorer make it an appealing choice for families and anyone seeking a comfortable and practical SUV. The spacious cabin, supportive seats, and abundance of features create a pleasant environment for both drivers and passengers. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a road trip, the Explorer provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The variety of features and trim levels allows you to customize the interior to match your needs and preferences, creating a personalized driving experience. Overall, the interior of the 2022 Explorer is designed to provide comfort, convenience, and a touch of luxury, making it a well-rounded SUV.

Infotainment and Technology

Okay, let's delve into the tech! The infotainment system in the 2022 Ford Explorer is user-friendly and packed with features. The base models come with an 8-inch touchscreen display, while higher trims offer a larger 10.1-inch or even a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The system is responsive and easy to navigate, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system is generally well-regarded for its ease of use and responsiveness. You can control various vehicle functions through the touchscreen, including audio settings, climate control, and navigation. The Explorer also offers a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing you and your passengers to stay connected on the go. This is a great feature for families with kids who need to stay entertained or for anyone who needs to work while traveling. Other available technology features include a premium sound system, a wireless charging pad, and multiple USB ports for charging devices. The Explorer also comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features enhance safety and provide peace of mind while driving. The technology features in the 2022 Ford Explorer make it a modern and connected SUV. The user-friendly infotainment system, smartphone integration, and available Wi-Fi hotspot provide a convenient and enjoyable experience. The advanced driver-assistance technologies add an extra layer of safety, making it a great choice for families and anyone who values technology and convenience. Ford has done a solid job integrating technology into the Explorer, and it really enhances the overall driving experience.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is paramount, right? The 2022 Ford Explorer boasts a solid array of safety features. Standard safety features include Ford Co-Pilot360, which bundles together a suite of driver-assistance technologies. This includes features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights. These features work together to help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The Explorer performed well in safety tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA gave the 2022 Explorer an overall safety rating of five stars, the highest possible rating. The IIHS awarded the Explorer a Top Safety Pick+ rating, the highest award given by the institute. This means that the Explorer performed well in all crashworthiness tests and has advanced safety features that can help prevent accidents. Higher trim levels of the Explorer offer even more advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering, and evasive steering assist. These features provide an extra layer of safety and make driving even easier and more comfortable. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer is a safe and reliable SUV. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, and it has received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and the IIHS. If safety is a top priority for you, the Explorer is definitely a vehicle worth considering. Ford has clearly prioritized safety in the design and engineering of the Explorer, and the positive safety ratings reflect this commitment. You can feel confident knowing that the Explorer is designed to protect you and your passengers in the event of a collision.

Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Let's talk more about the advanced driver-assistance systems! The 2022 Ford Explorer is equipped with an impressive array of ADAS that enhance safety and driving convenience. As mentioned, Ford Co-Pilot360 is standard, providing a solid foundation of safety features. Beyond the standard features, higher trims offer even more advanced technologies. Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go allows the Explorer to automatically maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic. Lane centering helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys. Evasive steering assist helps the driver steer around potential obstacles, preventing or mitigating a collision. These ADAS features work together to make driving safer and more enjoyable. They can help prevent accidents, reduce driver fatigue, and provide an extra layer of protection on the road. The Explorer's ADAS features are a testament to Ford's commitment to safety and technological innovation. They are a valuable asset, making the Explorer a compelling choice for anyone who prioritizes safety and wants the latest in driver-assistance technology. These systems aren't just about safety; they also contribute to a more relaxed and confident driving experience. They can be particularly helpful in heavy traffic or on long highway drives, reducing the stress associated with driving.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's sum it up with the pros and cons of the 2022 Ford Explorer to help you make a decision.

Pros:

• Spacious and Comfortable Interior: The Explorer offers ample space for passengers and cargo, with comfortable seats and a well-designed cabin. It's great for families.
• Variety of Engine Options: From the fuel-efficient EcoBoost to the powerful V6, you can choose an engine that suits your needs.
• User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is easy to use, and it includes smartphone integration and available Wi-Fi.
• Strong Safety Ratings: The Explorer has received top safety ratings from both NHTSA and IIHS.
• Available Hybrid Option: The Explorer Hybrid provides excellent fuel economy.

Cons:

• Third-Row Space: The third row is best suited for children or smaller adults.
• Some Transmission Delays: Some reviewers have noted occasional delays in transmission response.
• Fuel Economy (V6 models): The V6 engines can be less fuel-efficient than some competitors.
• Price: Depending on the trim, the Explorer can get a bit pricey. You'll want to check to make sure that the cost is worth the features.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Ford Explorer a Good Car?

So, is the 2022 Ford Explorer a good car? The answer is a resounding yes, with a few caveats. The 2022 Ford Explorer is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling blend of performance, comfort, technology, and safety. Its spacious interior, variety of engine options, and user-friendly technology make it an appealing choice for families and individuals alike. The strong safety ratings and available hybrid option further enhance its appeal. However, it's essential to consider the cons, such as the limited third-row space and the potential for transmission delays. Additionally, if fuel economy is a top priority, be sure to opt for the hybrid or the base EcoBoost engine. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer is a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. It provides a comfortable, capable, and well-equipped driving experience, making it a good choice for those seeking a versatile and practical vehicle. If you're looking for an SUV that can handle both daily commutes and family adventures, the 2022 Ford Explorer is definitely worth considering. Guys, it's a solid choice!