Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid. If you're in the market for a spacious, family-friendly SUV that doesn't guzzle gas like there's no tomorrow, this might just be the ride you've been waiting for. We'll cover everything from performance and fuel economy to interior features and overall value. Buckle up, because we're about to explore what makes this hybrid SUV tick!

Performance and Powertrain

Let's kick things off with what's under the hood. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid powertrain provides a smooth and responsive driving experience, making it perfect for daily commutes and long road trips alike. The 10-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless gear changes, optimizing both performance and fuel efficiency. One of the standout features is its ability to run on electric power alone at lower speeds, which is a huge plus for city driving. Ford's intelligent 4WD system is available, providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions. Whether you're navigating snowy roads or tackling light off-road trails, the Explorer Hybrid has got you covered. The transition between gasoline and electric power is virtually imperceptible, contributing to a refined and comfortable ride. Moreover, the regenerative braking system helps to recapture energy, further enhancing fuel economy. The Explorer Hybrid also offers various driving modes, including a dedicated tow/haul mode, which optimizes performance when towing trailers or hauling heavy loads. Speaking of towing, the Explorer Hybrid boasts a respectable towing capacity, making it a practical choice for families with recreational vehicles or those who frequently need to transport equipment. Overall, the performance and powertrain of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid strike a great balance between power, efficiency, and versatility.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

One of the main reasons people consider a hybrid is, of course, fuel economy. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid doesn't disappoint in this area. It boasts an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined for the RWD model. The 4WD model gets slightly lower figures at 23 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. These numbers are significantly better than the non-hybrid Explorer models, making it a compelling choice for those looking to save money at the pump. In real-world driving conditions, these figures hold up pretty well. Many owners have reported achieving or even exceeding the EPA estimates, especially during city driving where the electric motor can contribute significantly to fuel savings. The hybrid system seamlessly switches between gasoline and electric power, optimizing efficiency without sacrificing performance. The regenerative braking system also plays a crucial role in enhancing fuel economy by capturing energy that would otherwise be lost during braking. This energy is then used to recharge the battery, extending the electric driving range. Compared to other hybrid SUVs in its class, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid offers competitive fuel economy, making it a smart choice for environmentally conscious buyers. By reducing your carbon footprint and saving money on fuel, the Explorer Hybrid provides a win-win situation. So, if you're looking for an SUV that's both spacious and fuel-efficient, the Explorer Hybrid should definitely be on your radar. The long-term savings on fuel costs can add up significantly, making it a worthwhile investment.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid, you'll find a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The Limited trim comes with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable steering column, providing a comfortable and luxurious driving experience. The second-row seats are also heated, ensuring that your passengers stay cozy during colder months. The Explorer Hybrid offers ample headroom and legroom in all three rows, making it suitable for families with taller members. The cargo area is also generous, providing plenty of space for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. With the third-row seats folded down, the cargo capacity expands significantly, allowing you to haul larger items with ease. In terms of technology, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid comes loaded with features. The centerpiece is the 8-inch touchscreen display, which is easy to use and responsive. It comes with Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system, accessing your favorite apps, music, and navigation features. Other notable tech features include a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, a wireless charging pad, and a 360-degree camera system. The 360-degree camera provides a bird's-eye view of your surroundings, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. The Explorer Hybrid also comes with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features help to enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue, especially on long journeys. Overall, the interior comfort and technology of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid make it a pleasant and convenient place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid doesn't skimp. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. These include:

• Automatic Emergency Braking: This system can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid an impact.
• Lane-Keeping Assist: This feature helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing gentle steering assistance.
• Blind-Spot Monitoring: This system alerts you when a vehicle is detected in your blind spot, helping to prevent accidents during lane changes.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: This feature warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space or driveway.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: This system maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed as needed.

In addition to these standard features, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid also offers optional safety features such as:

• Active Park Assist: This system can automatically steer the vehicle into a parking space, making parallel and perpendicular parking a breeze.
• Reverse Brake Assist: This feature can automatically apply the brakes to prevent a collision when you're backing up.

The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid has also undergone rigorous crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It has earned high ratings in these tests, demonstrating its ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Explorer Hybrid's strong safety performance is due in part to its robust body structure, which is designed to absorb and distribute crash energy. The vehicle also comes equipped with a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to provide additional protection in a collision. With its advanced safety features and excellent crash test ratings, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid offers peace of mind for families who prioritize safety. You can drive with confidence, knowing that you and your loved ones are well-protected.

Pricing and Value

Let's talk about the bottom line: pricing and value. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid has a starting MSRP of around $50,000. Of course, this price can vary depending on the options and packages you choose. While that might seem like a hefty price tag, it's important to consider the value you're getting for your money. The Limited trim comes loaded with features, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a premium sound system. Plus, you're getting the benefits of a hybrid powertrain, which can save you money on fuel in the long run. Compared to other hybrid SUVs in its class, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a competitive price point. It's not the cheapest option on the market, but it provides a good balance of features, performance, and fuel economy. When evaluating the value of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid, it's also important to consider its reliability and resale value. Ford has a good reputation for building durable vehicles, and the Explorer has historically held its value well over time. This means that you can expect to get a decent return on your investment when you eventually decide to sell or trade in your Explorer Hybrid. Furthermore, the Explorer Hybrid qualifies for various tax incentives and rebates in certain states, which can further reduce the overall cost of ownership. Be sure to check with your local government to see what incentives are available in your area. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a compelling value proposition for buyers who are looking for a spacious, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped SUV. While the initial price may be higher than some of its competitors, the long-term savings on fuel and the vehicle's strong resale value make it a worthwhile investment.

Final Thoughts

So, what's the final verdict on the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid? Well, it's a pretty solid choice if you're in the market for a hybrid SUV that offers a good balance of space, fuel economy, and features. It's not perfect, but it does a lot of things well. The hybrid powertrain provides decent power and impressive fuel efficiency, making it a great option for daily commutes and long road trips. The interior is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. And the tech features are modern and user-friendly. Of course, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The price tag is a bit steep, and the 4WD model's fuel economy isn't quite as impressive as the RWD model. But overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is a well-rounded SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. If you're looking for a hybrid SUV that can handle your family's needs, it's definitely worth checking out. Just be sure to do your research and compare it to other models in its class to see if it's the right fit for you. Thanks for joining me on this deep dive into the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid! I hope you found this review helpful. Until next time, happy driving!