2022 Ford Explorer: A Great SUV?

Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2022 Ford Explorer? Awesome choice! The Explorer has been a family favorite for years, and for good reason. But is the 2022 model the right ride for you? Let's dive in and explore what makes the 2022 Ford Explorer tick. We'll break down the good, the not-so-good, and everything in between to help you make an informed decision. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Performance and Powertrain Options

First things first: let's talk about what's under the hood! The 2022 Ford Explorer offers a variety of engine options, catering to different driving styles and needs. This is a HUGE plus, because what works for one person may not work for another. The base engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. This engine generates a solid 300 horsepower, and it delivers plenty of punch for everyday driving, including merging onto highways and navigating city streets. It's a great balance of power and fuel efficiency.

Then, we have the option to upgrade to a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This is where things get really exciting, especially if you're looking for extra power. This engine packs a wallop with up to 400 horsepower (depending on the trim level), providing exhilarating acceleration and robust towing capabilities. Perfect for those who need a little more oomph or plan on hauling trailers or boats. The ST model, in particular, showcases this engine's performance prowess. Moreover, the Explorer Hybrid offers a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 318 horsepower and excellent fuel economy. This hybrid option is a fantastic choice for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money at the pump. Finally, there's a plug-in hybrid option available, giving you the best of both worlds with electric-only driving for shorter distances and the gas engine for longer trips. All of these engines are mated to a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, which enhances both performance and fuel efficiency. That means the transmission does a lot of the work for you, so you can just enjoy the ride.

So, whether you're prioritizing fuel efficiency, raw power, or a blend of both, the 2022 Ford Explorer has an engine option that's bound to fit your needs. Choosing the right engine is key to ensuring that the Explorer aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and driving preferences. This variety is something that truly sets the Explorer apart.

Driving Experience

When it comes to the driving experience, the 2022 Ford Explorer aims to please with its comfortable ride and responsive handling. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and composed ride, even on less-than-perfect surfaces. This means you and your passengers can enjoy a relaxed journey, whether it's a short trip to the grocery store or a long road trip. The steering is nicely weighted, giving you a good sense of control and making it easy to maneuver, especially in tight parking situations.

Acceleration is brisk with most engine options, particularly the more powerful V6 engines. This ensures that the Explorer feels confident and capable in various driving scenarios, from merging onto highways to overtaking slower vehicles. The 10-speed automatic transmission complements the engine performance by providing smooth and timely gear changes. This contributes to a seamless driving experience, with the transmission always seeming to be in the right gear at the right time. The Explorer also offers available all-wheel drive (AWD), which enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions or on challenging road surfaces. This can be a significant advantage if you live in an area with snowy or icy conditions.

Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer offers a well-rounded driving experience that strikes a good balance between comfort, performance, and handling. This makes it a great choice for families and individuals alike, providing a pleasant and confident driving experience in various driving situations.

Interior and Technology Features

Alright, let's talk about the inside! The 2022 Ford Explorer boasts a modern and spacious interior. The cabin is designed with both practicality and comfort in mind. The materials used are generally of good quality, and the overall fit and finish are well-executed. The seats are supportive, offering good comfort for both short commutes and long road trips. The Explorer provides ample legroom and headroom in both the front and second rows, accommodating adult passengers with ease.

This makes it an excellent choice for families or anyone who frequently travels with passengers. The third-row seating, which is available in some trims, provides added versatility for larger groups. However, keep in mind that the third row is best suited for children or smaller adults, as space can be limited. The dashboard features a user-friendly layout, with an available 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system that's easy to navigate. The infotainment system includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation.

Additional technology features include a digital instrument cluster, a premium sound system, and a range of driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features enhance the driving experience and provide added safety and convenience. The Explorer's interior also offers plenty of storage space, including a generous cargo area behind the rear seats. This makes it easy to carry luggage, groceries, or other items. The availability of multiple USB ports throughout the cabin keeps everyone's devices charged and connected. The thoughtfully designed interior, with its blend of comfort, technology, and practicality, makes the 2022 Ford Explorer a compelling choice for those seeking a modern and well-equipped SUV.

Infotainment System

The 2022 Ford Explorer's infotainment system is a key part of the in-cabin experience. The system is centered around an available 10.1-inch touchscreen, which serves as the central hub for various vehicle functions, entertainment, and connectivity. This touchscreen is designed to be intuitive and easy to use, with large, clear icons and a responsive interface. It allows you to access features like navigation, audio controls, and vehicle settings with ease.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard features, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. This means you can access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and use navigation apps directly through the touchscreen. This makes it easy to stay connected and entertained while on the road, without having to take your hands off the wheel or your eyes off the road. The Explorer's infotainment system also includes Ford's SYNC 3 or SYNC 4 system (depending on the trim level), which provides a variety of features and services. SYNC 3 and SYNC 4 offer voice-activated controls, allowing you to control many functions without taking your hands off the wheel. The system also supports over-the-air software updates, ensuring that your infotainment system is always up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.

A premium sound system is often available in higher trim levels, providing an enhanced audio experience. This system delivers high-quality sound, making your music, podcasts, and audiobooks sound even better. The infotainment system in the 2022 Ford Explorer strikes a good balance between functionality, user-friendliness, and technology, making it a valuable part of the overall driving experience.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2022 Ford Explorer is well-equipped to protect you and your passengers. It comes standard with a range of advanced driver-assistance features, designed to help prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of a collision. These features include: Automatic emergency braking, which can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if necessary. Lane-keeping assist, which helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you to the presence of vehicles in your blind spots. Adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead.

These safety features can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and help to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The Explorer also earned good safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), further demonstrating its commitment to safety. In addition to these advanced features, the Explorer is equipped with a full suite of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to provide additional protection in the event of a collision.

The Explorer's sturdy construction and robust safety features help to create a secure environment for passengers. The combination of advanced driver-assistance features, strong structural integrity, and comprehensive airbag system makes the 2022 Ford Explorer a safe and reliable SUV. These features can provide peace of mind, knowing that you and your loved ones are well-protected on the road. Safety is clearly a top priority for the Ford Explorer.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2022 Ford Explorer is available in a variety of trim levels, each offering a different set of features and price points. The base trim, typically the Explorer, offers a solid foundation with essential features. Moving up the lineup, you'll find the XLT trim, which adds more comfort and convenience features. Then comes the Limited trim, which offers a more luxurious experience with upgraded materials and technology.

For those seeking performance, the ST trim delivers a sporty driving experience with a more powerful engine and performance-oriented features. The Timberline trim is designed for off-road adventures, with enhanced capabilities and rugged styling. The Platinum trim represents the top-of-the-line option, offering the most premium features and finishes. The pricing for the 2022 Ford Explorer varies depending on the trim level and the options you choose. The base price is typically quite competitive, making the Explorer an accessible option for many buyers.

As you move up through the trim levels, the price increases to reflect the added features and upgrades. It's a good idea to research the different trim levels and their respective features to determine which one best suits your needs and budget. Factors such as engine choice, drivetrain (2WD or AWD), and optional packages will also influence the final price. Considering the value the 2022 Ford Explorer provides, it's generally considered a good value for the features, performance, and space it offers.

Pros and Cons

So, is the 2022 Ford Explorer the right SUV for you? Let's break down the pros and cons to help you decide.

Pros:

• Spacious and Comfortable Interior: The Explorer offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families. The seats are comfortable, and the overall interior design is well-executed.
• Variety of Engine Options: With multiple engine choices, you can choose the right balance of power and fuel efficiency to suit your needs.
• Advanced Technology Features: The Explorer is packed with modern technology, including a user-friendly infotainment system, advanced driver-assistance features, and smartphone integration.
• Good Safety Ratings: The Explorer has earned good safety ratings, giving you peace of mind on the road.
• Available Hybrid Option: The Explorer Hybrid offers excellent fuel economy and reduced emissions, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Cons:

• Third-Row Space: The third row is best suited for children or smaller adults, and space can be limited.
• Fuel Economy: While the base engine offers decent fuel economy, some of the more powerful engine options can be less efficient.
• Some Interior Materials: Some reviewers have noted that the interior materials in the lower trim levels could be improved.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Ford Explorer a Good Car?

Alright, guys, here's the bottom line: the 2022 Ford Explorer is a solid SUV that offers a lot to love. It's spacious, comfortable, packed with tech, and offers a variety of engine options to suit different needs. The safety features are top-notch, and it's a great choice for families. While the third-row space could be better and fuel economy varies depending on the engine, the positives definitely outweigh the negatives. If you're looking for a versatile and capable SUV, the 2022 Ford Explorer is definitely worth considering. It's a great all-around package that should make most drivers happy. So, go test drive one and see if it's the perfect fit for your lifestyle! You won't be disappointed! I hope this helps you make an informed decision!