2022 Ford Explorer: Is It Worth Your Money?
Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Ford Explorer to see if it's the right SUV for you. The Explorer is a popular choice for families, offering a blend of space, features, and performance. But, like any vehicle, it has its pros and cons. So, is the 2022 Ford Explorer a good car? Let's find out! We'll cover everything from its performance and features to its reliability and value. Get ready to explore the ins and outs of this SUV and decide if it deserves a spot in your driveway. Let's get started, guys!
Performance and Driving Experience
Alright, let's kick things off by talking about how the 2022 Ford Explorer performs on the road. The Explorer offers a range of engine options, so the driving experience can vary quite a bit depending on which one you choose. The base engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder that's surprisingly peppy, delivering a good balance of power and fuel efficiency. It's a solid choice for everyday driving, especially if you're primarily commuting or running errands. The engine produces a decent amount of horsepower. If you are looking for more power, there is an optional 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine available in higher trims, which adds a significant boost in performance. This engine provides quicker acceleration and makes the Explorer feel more confident when merging onto highways or passing other vehicles. It also offers a higher towing capacity, which is great if you need to haul a trailer or boat. Then there's the Explorer ST, which is the performance-oriented model. With a tuned version of the 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine, the ST delivers exhilarating acceleration and sporty handling. It's perfect for those who want an SUV that's fun to drive. The 2022 Ford Explorer handles well for its size, thanks to its independent suspension system, providing a comfortable ride on various road surfaces. The steering is responsive, making it easy to maneuver in both city and highway driving. While it may not be as nimble as a smaller SUV, the Explorer still feels composed and confident. The Explorer comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available as an option. The all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The system can automatically distribute power to the wheels with the most grip, providing better control on slippery surfaces. The transmission is a 10-speed automatic, which is smooth and efficient. It helps optimize fuel economy and provides seamless gear changes. The transmission works well with all the engine options, contributing to a pleasant driving experience. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer provides a balanced driving experience. Its performance and handling characteristics make it suitable for a variety of driving needs. It offers enough power for daily commutes while providing the option for more performance with the upgraded engines.
Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency
The 2022 Ford Explorer offers a selection of engine options to suit different needs and preferences. Each engine option comes with its own fuel efficiency ratings, which can affect your overall ownership costs. The base engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, which is a good choice for those prioritizing fuel economy. The engine is rated at around 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, making it relatively efficient for an SUV of its size. The 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine provides a significant increase in power, but it also comes with a slight reduction in fuel efficiency. This engine is rated at approximately 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. For those seeking maximum performance, the Explorer ST features a tuned version of the 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which delivers impressive acceleration. However, this engine also has the lowest fuel efficiency ratings, with around 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The fuel efficiency of the 2022 Ford Explorer is competitive within its class. The EcoBoost engines provide a good balance of power and fuel economy, making the Explorer a practical choice for everyday driving. The availability of multiple engine options allows you to choose the one that best matches your driving style and budget. All engine options are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which helps optimize fuel economy and provide smooth gear changes. The transmission plays a crucial role in maximizing the efficiency of each engine. The fuel tank capacity varies slightly depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration. Generally, the Explorer has a fuel tank capacity of around 18 to 20 gallons. The 2022 Ford Explorer also comes with features designed to improve fuel efficiency. These include automatic start-stop technology, which can shut off the engine when the vehicle is stopped to save fuel.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
Inside the 2022 Ford Explorer, you'll find a comfortable and well-equipped cabin designed to accommodate families and provide a pleasant driving experience. The interior design is modern and functional, with a focus on practicality and ease of use. The seats are supportive and offer ample space for both front and rear passengers. The Explorer offers three rows of seating, making it a great choice for families with multiple children or those who frequently transport passengers. The second-row seats are spacious and provide plenty of legroom, and the third-row seats are suitable for children or smaller adults. The interior materials are of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces and durable materials in high-wear areas. The overall build quality is solid, and the cabin feels well-assembled. The Explorer features a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display. The system includes features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. It also includes navigation, a premium sound system, and various connectivity features. The Explorer is equipped with a range of advanced driver-assistance features, designed to enhance safety and convenience. These features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies help to prevent accidents and make driving safer. The Explorer offers a generous amount of cargo space, with ample room for luggage, groceries, or other items. With all three rows of seats in use, there's still a decent amount of cargo space available. When the second and third rows are folded down, the Explorer provides a large, flat cargo area, making it easy to transport larger items. The Explorer offers a comfortable ride, thanks to its independent suspension system and well-insulated cabin. The suspension absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and composed ride. The cabin is designed to minimize road noise and wind noise, creating a quiet and relaxing environment. The interior design of the 2022 Ford Explorer is focused on practicality, comfort, and technology. The spacious cabin, comfortable seats, and user-friendly infotainment system make it a great choice for families and anyone seeking a versatile SUV. The advanced driver-assistance features and generous cargo space further enhance the Explorer's appeal.
Infotainment and Features
The 2022 Ford Explorer boasts a modern and feature-rich infotainment system, designed to enhance the driving experience. The centerpiece of the system is a touchscreen display, which varies in size depending on the trim level. The base models typically feature a smaller screen, while the higher trims offer a larger, more prominent display. The touchscreen is responsive and intuitive, making it easy to access the various features and functions of the system. The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as standard. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone, providing access to your favorite apps, music, navigation, and more. The system supports voice commands, allowing you to control various functions without taking your hands off the wheel. The system includes a built-in navigation system, which provides turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates. The navigation system is easy to use and provides accurate information. The Explorer offers a variety of connectivity features, including USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. These features allow you to connect your devices, stream music, and stay connected on the go. The infotainment system includes a premium audio system, which delivers high-quality sound throughout the cabin. The system provides a rich and immersive listening experience. The Explorer is equipped with a digital instrument cluster, which displays important information such as speed, fuel level, and other vehicle data. The display is customizable, allowing you to personalize the information that is displayed. The Explorer offers a range of advanced driver-assistance features, which are integrated into the infotainment system. These features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The infotainment system is well-integrated with the vehicle's other features and functions. It provides a user-friendly interface for controlling various aspects of the vehicle, such as climate control, seat adjustments, and more. The 2022 Ford Explorer's infotainment system is a major highlight, offering a combination of advanced features, intuitive controls, and seamless smartphone integration. It enhances the overall driving experience and provides a convenient and enjoyable experience for both the driver and passengers.
Reliability and Safety
When you're considering a car, especially an SUV for your family, reliability and safety are probably high on your list, right? Let's break down the 2022 Ford Explorer in these areas. Reliability is always a key concern. Based on various owner surveys and reliability ratings, the 2022 Ford Explorer has shown mixed results. Some owners report positive experiences with minimal issues, while others have reported problems, particularly with the vehicle's electrical systems and transmission. It's essential to research specific model years and trim levels, as reliability can vary. Checking owner reviews, and ratings from reputable sources can give you a better idea of what to expect. Ford has made efforts to address previous issues in later model years, but it's always a good idea to stay informed. Ford offers warranties to help protect against unexpected repair costs. The basic warranty typically covers the vehicle for a certain period of time or mileage, while the powertrain warranty covers the engine and transmission. The length of the warranty coverage can vary, so be sure to check the details. The 2022 Ford Explorer is designed with safety in mind. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to help protect occupants in the event of a collision and prevent accidents from happening in the first place. The Explorer received good safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings are an important indicator of the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in a crash. The Explorer comes standard with a range of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. These features are designed to enhance safety and help prevent accidents. Ford also offers advanced driver-assistance features to enhance safety and convenience. These features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies can help prevent accidents and make driving safer. The 2022 Ford Explorer's safety ratings and features are reassuring. While the reliability of the vehicle has shown mixed results, the safety features and crash test performance indicate that Ford has prioritized occupant protection.
Safety Features and Ratings
The 2022 Ford Explorer is equipped with a comprehensive array of safety features designed to protect occupants and help prevent accidents. These features contribute to the overall safety of the vehicle and provide peace of mind to drivers and passengers. Standard safety features include airbags throughout the cabin, including front, side, and curtain airbags. These airbags are designed to deploy in the event of a collision to protect occupants from injury. The Explorer is equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS), which help prevent the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. Electronic stability control (ESC) helps to maintain vehicle stability by monitoring and correcting oversteer or understeer situations. This helps to prevent loss of control on the road. The Explorer comes standard with a rearview camera, which provides a view of the area behind the vehicle, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Ford also offers advanced driver-assistance features, designed to enhance safety and convenience. Adaptive cruise control helps to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead. Lane-keeping assist helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane, preventing unintentional lane departures. Blind-spot monitoring alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, making it safer to change lanes. Automatic emergency braking can automatically apply the brakes if a potential collision is detected, helping to mitigate or avoid an accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conduct crash tests to assess the safety performance of vehicles. The 2022 Ford Explorer received good safety ratings from both organizations. These ratings are an important indicator of the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in a crash. The 2022 Ford Explorer's safety features and ratings reflect Ford's commitment to vehicle safety. The comprehensive suite of safety features and good crash test performance make it a safe choice for families.
Trim Levels and Value
The 2022 Ford Explorer comes in a variety of trim levels, each offering a different set of features and price points. The trim levels include base models, XLT, Limited, ST-Line, Timberline, ST, and Platinum. The base model offers essential features, while the higher trims add more luxury, technology, and performance options. The base model provides a good value for those seeking a practical and affordable SUV. It comes with a decent set of standard features, including the base engine, essential safety features, and a basic infotainment system. The XLT trim adds additional features, such as upgraded upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a more advanced infotainment system. This trim offers a step up in comfort and convenience. The Limited trim adds even more luxury features, such as leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and additional driver-assistance features. The Limited trim is a good choice for those seeking a more upscale experience. The ST-Line trim is styled with sportier design elements, such as unique wheels, blacked-out trim, and a sport-tuned suspension. The Timberline trim is designed for off-road adventures, with features like increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a rugged exterior design. The ST trim is the performance-oriented model, featuring a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and unique styling elements. The Platinum trim offers the highest level of luxury and features, including premium leather upholstery, advanced technology, and a panoramic sunroof. The value of the 2022 Ford Explorer varies depending on the trim level and features. The base model offers a good value for its price, while the higher trims provide more features and luxury at a higher cost. It's important to consider your budget and needs when choosing a trim level. The Explorer competes with other mid-size SUVs, such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Chevrolet Traverse. These competitors offer similar features, performance, and value. The 2022 Ford Explorer offers a compelling value proposition, especially when you consider its range of features, performance options, and available trim levels. The choice of which trim is best depends on your individual needs and budget.
Pricing and Comparisons
When considering the 2022 Ford Explorer, understanding the pricing and comparing it to its competitors is essential to make an informed decision. The starting price of the Explorer varies depending on the trim level and the options selected. The base model is typically the most affordable, while the higher trims with more features and performance enhancements come at a higher cost. The price of the Explorer is competitive with other mid-size SUVs in its class, such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Chevrolet Traverse. It's important to compare prices across different trims and configurations to find the best value for your needs. The cost of ownership includes not only the initial purchase price but also ongoing expenses, such as fuel costs, insurance premiums, and maintenance costs. The fuel efficiency of the Explorer varies depending on the engine and drivetrain. The maintenance costs of the Explorer are generally in line with other vehicles in its class. It's essential to factor in these costs when evaluating the overall value of the vehicle. When comparing the Explorer to its competitors, consider the features, performance, and reliability of each vehicle. Some competitors may offer more standard features, while others may have better fuel economy or reliability ratings. Researching and comparing different models can help you identify the best fit for your specific needs and preferences. The Honda Pilot is known for its reliability, spacious interior, and user-friendly features. The Toyota Highlander is praised for its fuel efficiency, strong resale value, and advanced safety features. The Chevrolet Traverse offers a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and a large cargo area. Comparing the Explorer to its competitors can help you determine which vehicle offers the best value for your money. Comparing the trim levels and options available on each vehicle. Some trims may offer more features or performance enhancements than others, so it's essential to compare them based on your needs and budget.
So, Is the 2022 Ford Explorer a Good Car?
Alright, guys, so after all this information, is the 2022 Ford Explorer a good car? The answer is: it depends! The Explorer offers a lot to like, including a spacious and comfortable interior, a range of engine options to suit different needs, and a decent array of features and technology. It's a great choice for families, offering three rows of seating and plenty of cargo space. On the other hand, the Explorer's reliability has been a mixed bag for some owners. Some report issues with electrical systems and other components. It's super important to do your research, read reviews, and consider your priorities. If you're looking for a comfortable, versatile SUV with a decent amount of features, and you're willing to accept the possibility of some reliability concerns, then the Explorer could be a good choice. If reliability is your top priority, you might want to consider other options, like the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander, known for their strong reliability records. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to test drive the Explorer and see if it meets your needs and expectations. Consider the trim level that best fits your budget and lifestyle, and don't forget to weigh the pros and cons before making your final decision. The 2022 Ford Explorer has a lot to offer. However, whether it is the right car for you depends on your individual needs and priorities. Do your homework, and you'll find the perfect SUV! Happy driving, everyone!