Hey guys! Are you thinking about getting a 2022 Ford Explorer? You've probably been scouring the internet for reviews, and Edmunds is definitely a trusted source. So, let's dive deep into what the 2022 Ford Explorer offers, taking a look at what Edmunds and other experts are saying, and help you decide if it's the right SUV for you. We'll cover everything from performance and comfort to tech and overall value. By the end of this article, you'll have a solid understanding of whether the 2022 Explorer is worth your hard-earned cash.

Overview of the 2022 Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer has been a staple in the SUV market for decades, and the 2022 model aims to continue that legacy. It's a three-row SUV, making it a great option for families or anyone who needs extra passenger and cargo space. The 2022 Explorer comes in several different trim levels, each offering a unique set of features and capabilities. Whether you're looking for a fuel-efficient daily driver or a powerful, off-road-ready machine, there's likely an Explorer model that fits your needs. Ford has made some updates and improvements over previous years, focusing on technology, comfort, and overall driving experience. The competition in the SUV market is fierce, with rivals like the Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride, and Honda Pilot all vying for the top spot. So, how does the 2022 Explorer stack up? Let's get into the details.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2022 Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options to suit different driving styles and needs. The base engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, which provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. If you're looking for more oomph, there's a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 available, which delivers significantly more horsepower and torque. For those who want the best of both worlds, the Explorer also comes in a hybrid version, combining a 3.3-liter V6 with an electric motor. The hybrid offers decent fuel economy and can provide a boost of power when needed. Handling-wise, the 2022 Explorer feels fairly planted and stable on the road. It's not the sportiest SUV in its class, but it offers a comfortable and confident driving experience. The steering is responsive, and the brakes provide adequate stopping power. Depending on the trim level, you can choose between rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive system is particularly useful in inclement weather or when driving on unpaved roads. Overall, the 2022 Explorer provides a solid performance package that should satisfy most drivers. It's a versatile SUV that can handle daily commutes, family road trips, and even some light off-roading. The different engine options allow you to choose the level of performance that best fits your needs and preferences. So, whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, power, or a combination of both, the 2022 Explorer has you covered.

Interior Comfort and Design

Stepping inside the 2022 Ford Explorer, you'll notice a cabin designed with both comfort and functionality in mind. The interior is generally spacious, with ample room for both passengers and cargo. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives more enjoyable. The second-row seats offer decent legroom, and even the third-row seats are reasonably comfortable for shorter trips. The design of the dashboard and center console is modern and intuitive, with most controls being easy to reach and use. The materials used throughout the cabin are of decent quality, although some critics have noted that certain areas could use a bit more refinement. Depending on the trim level, you can find features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. One of the standout features of the 2022 Explorer is its cargo capacity. With all three rows of seats in place, there's still a reasonable amount of space for groceries or luggage. When you fold down the third-row seats, the cargo area expands significantly, providing plenty of room for larger items. And with the second-row seats folded down, the Explorer offers a cavernous cargo area that rivals some minivans. In terms of storage, there are plenty of cubbies, bins, and cupholders throughout the cabin to keep your belongings organized. Overall, the interior of the 2022 Explorer is a comfortable and practical space that's well-suited for families and anyone who needs plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The design is modern and functional, and the available features add a touch of luxury and convenience.

Technology and Features

The 2022 Ford Explorer is packed with technology and features designed to enhance your driving experience. The standard infotainment system includes an 8-inch touchscreen display, which is easy to use and responsive. It comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. Higher trim levels offer a larger 10.1-inch touchscreen display, which provides even more screen real estate and enhanced functionality. Other available tech features include a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, a wireless charging pad, and a 360-degree camera system. The 360-degree camera is particularly useful when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces, as it provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings. In terms of safety technology, the 2022 Explorer comes standard with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver-assistance features. This includes features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features can help you stay safe on the road and avoid accidents. Adaptive cruise control is also available, which can automatically adjust your speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Overall, the 2022 Explorer offers a comprehensive suite of technology and features that enhance both convenience and safety. From its user-friendly infotainment system to its advanced driver-assistance features, the Explorer is designed to keep you connected, entertained, and safe on the road. The available upgrades and options allow you to customize the Explorer to your specific needs and preferences.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2022 Ford Explorer comes in a variety of trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The base trim is the Explorer, which comes standard with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, an 8-inch touchscreen display, and Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features. The XLT trim adds features like heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a keyless entry system. The Limited trim offers a more luxurious experience, with leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and a panoramic sunroof. The ST trim is the performance-oriented model, with a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, a sport-tuned suspension, and unique styling cues. The Platinum trim is the top-of-the-line model, with all the bells and whistles, including premium leather upholstery, massaging front seats, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen display. In addition to the different trim levels, there are also several optional packages and stand-alone features that you can add to customize your Explorer. These include things like a tow package, a sport appearance package, and a technology package. The tow package includes features like a Class IV trailer hitch and trailer sway control, allowing you to tow trailers and other equipment safely. The sport appearance package adds unique styling elements, such as blacked-out exterior trim and sporty wheels. The technology package includes features like a wireless charging pad and a 360-degree camera system. When choosing a trim level and options, it's important to consider your budget, your needs, and your preferences. Think about what features are most important to you and choose the trim level and options that best fit your lifestyle. With so many different options available, you're sure to find an Explorer that's perfect for you.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many car buyers, and the 2022 Ford Explorer offers a range of options to suit different needs. The base 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is the most fuel-efficient option, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine offers more power but at the expense of fuel economy, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. The hybrid version of the Explorer offers the best fuel economy, with EPA-estimated ratings of up to 27 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. These ratings can vary depending on driving conditions and habits. If you do a lot of city driving, you can expect to see slightly lower fuel economy numbers than the EPA estimates. And if you do a lot of highway driving, you can expect to see slightly higher fuel economy numbers. In real-world testing, the 2022 Explorer has generally performed well in terms of fuel economy. Many drivers have reported achieving fuel economy numbers that are close to the EPA estimates. However, it's important to keep in mind that your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving style and the conditions in which you drive. If you're concerned about fuel economy, the hybrid version of the Explorer is the best option. It offers the best combination of power and fuel efficiency, and it can save you money at the pump over the long term. However, if you need more power, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is a good compromise. It offers decent fuel economy and plenty of power for most driving situations. Ultimately, the best way to determine which engine is right for you is to test drive the different models and see which one fits your needs and preferences.

Pricing and Value

The 2022 Ford Explorer has a starting price of around $33,000, but the price can vary significantly depending on the trim level and options you choose. The higher trim levels, such as the Limited, ST, and Platinum, can easily exceed $50,000. When considering the price of the 2022 Explorer, it's important to compare it to its competitors in the mid-size SUV market. Some of the Explorer's main competitors include the Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride, and Honda Pilot. The Highlander and Telluride are generally considered to be strong values, offering a lot of features for the money. The Pilot is also a popular choice, known for its reliability and spacious interior. In terms of value, the 2022 Explorer offers a good balance of features, performance, and price. It's not the cheapest SUV in its class, but it offers a lot of content for the money. The available engine options, trim levels, and features allow you to customize the Explorer to your specific needs and preferences. One of the key factors in determining the value of the 2022 Explorer is its reliability. Ford has made improvements in recent years to improve the reliability of its vehicles, but the Explorer has had some issues in the past. It's important to research the reliability ratings and reviews before making a purchase. Overall, the 2022 Explorer is a good value for the money. It offers a lot of features, performance, and versatility. However, it's important to consider your budget, your needs, and your preferences before making a decision. Be sure to compare the Explorer to its competitors and research its reliability ratings before making a purchase.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

Edmunds is a well-respected source for car reviews, and their expert rating of the 2022 Ford Explorer can provide valuable insights. According to Edmunds, the 2022 Explorer scores well in several key areas, including performance, comfort, and technology. However, they also note some drawbacks, such as the relatively high price and the somewhat cramped third-row seats. Edmunds' experts praise the Explorer's available engine options, noting that the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 provides plenty of power for most driving situations. They also appreciate the Explorer's comfortable ride and its user-friendly infotainment system. However, Edmunds' experts also point out that the Explorer's third-row seats are not as spacious as those in some of its competitors. They also note that the Explorer's price can be a bit high, especially when you start adding options. Overall, Edmunds gives the 2022 Explorer a positive rating, but they recommend that buyers carefully consider their needs and budget before making a purchase. They also suggest test-driving the Explorer and comparing it to its competitors to see which SUV is the best fit. In addition to their expert rating, Edmunds also provides a wealth of information about the 2022 Explorer, including detailed specifications, photos, and videos. They also offer a price quote tool that can help you find the best deal on a new Explorer. If you're considering buying a 2022 Explorer, Edmunds is a great resource to consult. Their expert rating and in-depth reviews can help you make an informed decision. Be sure to check out their website for the latest information and reviews.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Ford Explorer Worth Buying?

So, is the 2022 Ford Explorer worth buying? Ultimately, the answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. The 2022 Explorer is a versatile and capable SUV that offers a lot of features and performance. It's a good choice for families or anyone who needs plenty of passenger and cargo space. The available engine options, trim levels, and features allow you to customize the Explorer to your specific needs and preferences. However, the 2022 Explorer is not without its drawbacks. It can be a bit pricey, and the third-row seats are not as spacious as those in some of its competitors. It's also important to consider the Explorer's reliability ratings before making a purchase. If you're looking for a mid-size SUV that offers a good balance of features, performance, and price, the 2022 Ford Explorer is definitely worth considering. However, it's important to do your research, compare it to its competitors, and test drive it before making a final decision. Consider what's most important to you in an SUV - whether it's space, fuel economy, performance, or technology - and make sure the Explorer checks the right boxes for your lifestyle. I hope this review has helped you in your car-buying journey. Good luck, and happy driving!