The Ford Explorer is one of those iconic vehicles where if you don’t own one, you know someone does. For good reason too, as the Explorer is a fantastic midsize SUV for versatility as well as reliability. Whether driving the family around, going camping, or just driving back and forth in town, the Explorer is a perfect fit. The new 2022 Ford Explorer is the best yet with several trims to choose from, including the Timberline, ST, Platinum, and even several hybrid models. Some impressive technology and features adorn the Explorer as well! Read on, and then come visit Cogswell Motors to take a test drive.
Quick Specs
- MSRP Price: $34,010
- Seating Capacity: 7
- MPG: 20/28 City/Hwy
- Engine: 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder
- Horsepower: 300-hp
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Towing Capacity: 5,600 lbs.
What’s New for the 2022 Ford Explorer?
This year, Ford added the ST-Line trim to the Explorer lineup. This is a stylish, yet budget friendly, trim and has already received much positive response. Other changes to the 2022 lineup include more powerful engines in the King Ranch and Platinum and the option to change out the second-row bench seat with captain’s chairs.
Technology improvements are getting better and better each year. The infotainment system in the Explorer is easy to use and responsive and features an available 10.1 inch color touchscreen. Intelligent 4WD with a standard Terrain Management System provides you with seven easily accessible modes to handle all types of terrain and driving needs, and even have special 3D animated graphics for the available 12.3 inch digital productivity cluster. All of Ford’s new vehicles come with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver assistance aid technology to help keep everyone safe out there. AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control can help keep your Explorer in control of anything you are hauling also.
Technology Reigns Supreme
These days, technology is everywhere. Not only is tech fun to have, but in many cases now it is vital. The new Explorer is outfitted with plenty of smart tech to enhance your driving experience. The SYNC 3 and in-vehicle Wi-Fi hotspot features keep you seamlessly connected with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. When properly equipped, you can relax knowing that the enhanced voice recognition and navigation system will keep you headed in the right direction without having to worry about taking your hands off the wheel.
An available 10.1 inch color LED touchscreen, perfectly positioned vertically in the center console provides an amazing infotainment system with easy access to all your music, podcasts, navigation tools, and more. For most models, you can also enjoy a standard Bang & Olufsen 12-speaker sound system to make your Explorer into your personal concert hall.
Comfort and Elegance
The inside of the 2022 Ford Explorer is all about sleek and comfortable elegance. The multicontour seats for the driver and front seat passenger not only are designed to be as comfortable as possible, but also can feature Active Motion which offers five massage themes. Whether you choose to focus it on your upper or lower back, it can help prevent back strain and fatigue on long drives. All of the interior is designed to be soothing and durable, with high quality seating materials, ambient lighting, and a center console that is precision-engineered. It will surely make you smile to experience what the Explorer has to offer.
So Many Trim Options Available for the 2022 Explorer!
Base
The base trim of the Explorer starts at an MSRP of $34,010 and is pretty great just on its own. Several of the Ford Co-Pilot360 safety technologies are standard, such as a lane-keeping system, rear view camera, AdvanceTrac with roll stability control, and more. It also offers an infotainment system with an 8-inch LCD touchscreen and SYNC 3 technologies.
XLT
The XLT has a starting MSRP of $38,320. There are a lot of available options here for customizing your vehicle to meet your needs, such as remote start or voice activated navigation, or luxuries such as a twin-panel moonroof. The instrument panel is upgraded at this level to a standard 6.5-inch color LCD productivity screen.
ST-Line
The brand new ST-Line really kicks things up a notch while maintaining a very reasonable starting MSRP of $45,510. A 12-speaker B&O sound system and wireless charging pad make your drive a little more fun. Meanwhile a 360 degree camera with split-view and SYNC voice-activated navigation keeps it a little less stressful.
Limited
The trim recommended by Car and Driver, the Limited trim starts at an MSRP of $46,820. Many perks such as a heated and power-adjustable steering wheel, a power-folding third row, leather trimmed seats with accent stitching, second row heated seats, and more all make this model very enticing.
Timberline
Timberline starts at an MSRP of $47,570 and offers a more rugged and adventurous model to the lineup. This option has better ground clearance and steel underbody skid plates as well as an off-road style in exterior design.
ST
With the ST you see a switch in standard engine to a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 with auto start-stop technology. Priced at a starting MSRP of $48,510 it also makes you eligible for the complimentary Ford Performance Racing School ST SUV Experience. At one of these schools you and a guest can learn how to get the most out of your SUV’s track-inspired performance.
Platinum
An experience of true 1st class luxury is what you will receive from the Platinum model. This trim is priced at a starting MSRP of $52,125 and can offer you a high quality experience inside and out. Nothing has been overlooked here, from the satin aluminum lower bodyside cladding accent and finish on the grille, to the interior’s tri-diamond perforated leather seating surfaces and 12.3-inch digital productivity screen. Even the B & O sound system is upgraded to a 14 speaker system including a subwoofer.
King Ranch
Finally, we have the King Ranch starting at an MSRP of $53,380. This trim offers an authentic Southwestern feel and detail. The seating surfaces are Mesa Del Rio heated leather with lasso-perforated inserts which give a hand-crafted southwestern feel and a beautiful color reminiscent of the country. All the bells and whistles can be found in this trim, even down to second-row sunblinds and multi-color ambient lighting. Truly, this is an SUV to spoil you as you deserve.
Hybrid Options in the 2022 Ford Explorer
Ford now offers a hybrid engine option for the Limited and Platinum models. This offers a 3.3-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine combined with an electric motor. Towing capacity is still an impressive 5,000 pounds, is fully off-road capable, and the interior space is the same as other Explorers even with the added technology under the hood.
Why Should You Buy the 2022 Ford Explorer?
The Explorer has always been a popular midsize SUV, and the 2022 model only improves on the foundation Ford created. Towing power and stability, comfortable interior with room for everyone, and better fuel economy than many others in its class…the Explorer is simply a great vehicle. Perfect for family drives, work commutes, or even bringing a camper out on a fun adventure, this is a vehicle that can fit any lifestyle. Come down to Cogswell Motors to take a test drive and see for yourself how comfortable and convenient the 2022 Ford Explorer really is.