In-Depth Automotive Reviews

2022 Ford Explorer

Starting from CAD $47,799

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The Ford Explorer is one of the best in the segment and can be tailored to meet your specific needs making it really versatile. Buyers may easily customize an Explorer to their needs with the many trims and engine offerings which include a hybrid option. The base model is a great choice for most families, while the Platinum offers an upscale feel. The Explorer is a great midsize SUV thanks to its seven seats and generous storage space compared to some competitors in the segment.

Performance & Handling

When shopping for a three-row SUV, the 2022 Ford Explorer is a compelling option for those who prioritize good handling and quick acceleration. Whether driving around in the city or taking corners, the Explorer is a joy to drive. Under the hood, the base engine is a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder, which creates 300 horsepower and is perfect for daily driving. It delivers a considerable amount of power that ensures good performance no matter the speed. However, for drivers seeking more power, the Explorer ST variant comes with a turbo V6 engine. This engine transforms this SUV into a performance powerhouse.

The 10-speed transmission in the 2022 Explorer does a great job of providing smooth shifts on most occasions. However, during gentle acceleration and deceleration common in city driving, the transmission was a bit hesitant in its responses. This is something to consider for those who commute a lot in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

Technology & Connectivity

An 8-inch infotainment screen comes standard on all Explorers, it’s responsive and offers a user-friendly interface. Ford also offers an optional 10.1-inch vertically oriented infotainment screen for those seeking a larger display. While the standard screen offers a good balance of size and functionality, the bigger screen makes the cabin feel more advanced. However, it’s worth noting that some users may find the vertical orientation less intuitive or prefer a more traditional horizontal layout. If you do prefer the 10.1-inch screen over the smaller version, you’ll need to explore the higher trims, which come with a higher price tag. Additionally, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on all models.

The 2022 Explorer also comes well-equipped with driving assistance technologies, even on the base model, and these systems work well.

Interior & Comfort

The Explorer provides ample space and comfort for occupants, starting with the front seats. The front area offers plenty of room, and the driving position is easily adjustable, allowing you to find a comfortable position behind the wheel. Moving to the second row, the legroom is decent, but there are some competitors who offer more space in this area. While it can comfortably accommodate adults, other vehicles might provide a bit more legroom. When it comes to the third row, it’s more suitable for children due to the limited legroom and headroom for adults. The Explorer does feature a convenient power-folding mechanism for the third row. Although this is nice to have, it can only be operated from the hatch area.

The front seats are well-designed and comfortable, making them suitable for long road trips. The overall ride quality is smooth, and most road imperfections are effectively absorbed, resulting in a comfortable ride. There is some road and wind noise present at highway speeds, but it never gets too bad.

Cargo Space & Storage

The Explorer has a great amount of cargo space, setting it apart from many other vehicles in its segment. Even with the third-row seats in their upright position, the Explorer provides ample room in the cargo area. This spacious cargo capacity is a significant advantage over some competitors, as it ensures you can carry items without the need to fold down the third-row seats. Whether you’re heading out for a family road trip, going grocery shopping, or simply running errands, you’ll find that the Explorer offers plenty of room to store your belongings.

Furthermore, the Explorer provides convenient storage options up front for smaller items such as phones and wallets. This means you can keep the interior clean and clutter-free while having all the essential items within easy reach while driving. For families with young children, the Explorer excels in accommodating child safety seats. Installing these seats in the middle row is a breeze, thanks to the well-designed layout and accessible latch anchors.

Fuel Economy

The 2.3 L turbocharged four-cylinder engine does a great job of being fuel efficient. This engine is rated at 11.7/8.6 L/100 km (city/highway). In our test, we were able to achieve similar results.