Hey guys! Thinking about getting a new ride that's both spacious and eco-friendly? Let's dive into the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid. This SUV combines the practicality of a large vehicle with the fuel efficiency of a hybrid, making it a compelling option for families and adventurers alike. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its interior comfort and overall value. Buckle up, because we're about to take a detailed look at what makes this hybrid SUV tick.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

When it comes to performance and fuel efficiency of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid, this SUV doesn't disappoint. The hybrid powertrain combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 318 horsepower. This setup provides ample power for daily driving and confident acceleration when you need it. Whether you're merging onto the highway or tackling hilly terrain, the Explorer Hybrid offers a smooth and responsive driving experience. The electric motor provides instant torque, which enhances the vehicle's overall agility and makes it feel more lively than its non-hybrid counterparts.

One of the main reasons people consider a hybrid is for its fuel efficiency, and the Explorer Hybrid delivers respectable numbers in this area. According to EPA estimates, it achieves around 27 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. These figures are significantly better than the non-hybrid Explorer, which typically gets around 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Over the course of a year, this difference in fuel economy can translate to significant savings at the pump. Plus, the Explorer Hybrid's ability to run on electric power at lower speeds further enhances its fuel efficiency in urban environments. The transition between electric and gasoline power is seamless, so you won't notice any jarring shifts or changes in performance. Additionally, the hybrid system incorporates regenerative braking, which captures energy during deceleration and uses it to recharge the battery. This helps to further improve fuel efficiency and reduce wear on the brakes.

The Explorer Hybrid also offers different driving modes that allow you to tailor the vehicle's performance to your specific needs. For example, there's an Eco mode that optimizes fuel efficiency by adjusting the throttle response and shift points. There's also a Sport mode that enhances acceleration and provides a more engaging driving experience. And for those who need to tow, the Explorer Hybrid has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is plenty for hauling a trailer, boat, or other recreational equipment. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid strikes a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it a practical and eco-conscious choice for drivers who need a spacious and capable SUV.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid reveals a blend of comfort and technology designed to enhance the driving experience for both the driver and passengers. The Limited trim boasts leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat with memory settings, ensuring a comfortable and supportive ride even on long journeys. The second-row seats are also heated, providing added comfort for rear passengers during colder months. The spacious cabin offers ample headroom and legroom in all three rows, making it suitable for families with growing children or adults who frequently travel with a full load of passengers.

On the technology front, the Explorer Hybrid comes equipped with a host of features that keep you connected, entertained, and safe on the road. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is an 8-inch touchscreen display that's easy to use and responsive to the touch. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation tools. The system also includes a Wi-Fi hotspot, so you can stay connected to the internet even when you're on the go. A premium audio system delivers crisp and clear sound throughout the cabin, enhancing the listening experience for everyone on board.

In terms of safety technology, the Explorer Hybrid comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of advanced driver-assistance features that includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to prevent accidents and make driving safer and more enjoyable. The Explorer Hybrid also has a rearview camera with parking sensors, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Optional features include a 360-degree camera, which provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings, and active park assist, which can automatically steer the vehicle into a parking space. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a well-appointed interior with a generous array of comfort and technology features that cater to the needs of modern drivers and passengers.

Exterior Design and Features

The exterior design and features of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid combine ruggedness with a touch of sophistication. The Explorer's bold and athletic stance is complemented by sleek lines and stylish accents, giving it a modern and upscale appearance. The Limited trim adds chrome accents to the grille, door handles, and window surrounds, enhancing its premium look. LED headlights and taillights provide excellent visibility and add to the vehicle's overall aesthetic appeal. A power liftgate makes it easy to access the cargo area, and a panoramic sunroof lets in plenty of natural light, creating a more open and airy feel inside the cabin.

The Explorer Hybrid rides on 20-inch alloy wheels that give it a commanding presence on the road. Available features include rain-sensing wipers, which automatically adjust their speed based on the amount of rainfall, and power-folding side mirrors, which make it easier to navigate tight spaces. The Explorer Hybrid also has a roof rack, which provides additional storage space for carrying luggage, sporting equipment, or other bulky items. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid boasts a well-designed exterior that's both stylish and functional, making it a standout in the competitive SUV market. The combination of ruggedness and sophistication gives it a versatile appeal, making it suitable for both urban and outdoor adventures.

Safety Ratings and Features

When it comes to safety ratings and features, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid excels in providing a secure and protected environment for its occupants. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have both put the Explorer through rigorous testing, and it has earned top marks for its crashworthiness. The Explorer's strong and durable structure, combined with its advanced safety technologies, contribute to its excellent safety ratings. In addition to its crash-test performance, the Explorer Hybrid also comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety features that help to prevent accidents in the first place.

Ford Co-Pilot360, which is standard on the Explorer Hybrid, includes features such as automatic emergency braking, which can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid an impact. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you when there's a vehicle in your blind spot, making it safer to change lanes. Lane-keeping assist helps you stay centered in your lane by providing gentle steering corrections if you start to drift. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you, automatically adjusting your speed to match the flow of traffic. These features work together to create a safer and more confident driving experience.

The Explorer Hybrid also has a rearview camera with parking sensors, which makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and avoid collisions when backing up. Optional features include a 360-degree camera, which provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings, and active park assist, which can automatically steer the vehicle into a parking space. Other available safety features include rain-sensing wipers, which automatically adjust their speed based on the amount of rainfall, and automatic high beams, which automatically switch between high and low beams to improve visibility at night. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a comprehensive array of safety features and has earned excellent safety ratings, making it a top choice for families and individuals who prioritize safety.

Pricing and Value

Let's talk pricing and value – always a key consideration when buying a new car. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid typically starts around $50,000, but the final price can vary depending on the options and packages you choose. While this might seem like a significant investment, it's important to consider the value you're getting in return. The Explorer Hybrid offers a spacious and comfortable interior, a host of advanced technology features, and respectable fuel efficiency, making it a practical and eco-conscious choice for families and individuals alike. When compared to other hybrid SUVs in its class, the Explorer Hybrid offers a competitive combination of features and performance at a reasonable price.

One of the key factors that contribute to the Explorer Hybrid's value is its long list of standard features. Even in the base trim, you get a generous array of amenities, including leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and a suite of advanced safety features. As you move up to the higher trims, you get even more luxurious features, such as ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a 360-degree camera. The Explorer Hybrid also offers a variety of optional packages that allow you to customize the vehicle to your specific needs and preferences.

Another factor to consider is the Explorer Hybrid's resale value. Ford vehicles typically hold their value well over time, which means you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you eventually decide to sell or trade in your Explorer Hybrid. Additionally, the Explorer Hybrid's fuel efficiency can save you money at the pump over the long term, which further enhances its overall value. When you add it all up, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a compelling combination of features, performance, and value, making it a smart choice for drivers who are looking for a spacious, eco-friendly, and well-equipped SUV.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid? This SUV is a solid choice if you need space, want decent fuel economy, and appreciate a comfortable ride. It's not the flashiest or most exciting vehicle on the market, but it gets the job done. The hybrid powertrain provides a good balance of power and efficiency, and the interior is well-appointed with plenty of tech features. The Explorer Hybrid also has a strong safety record, which is always a plus for families.

Of course, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The Explorer Hybrid's price tag can be a bit steep, especially if you opt for the higher trims or add a lot of optional features. And while the hybrid powertrain does improve fuel efficiency, it's not as impressive as some other hybrid SUVs on the market. Additionally, the Explorer Hybrid's handling can feel a bit cumbersome at times, especially when cornering. 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 in the market for a spacious, eco-friendly, and well-equipped SUV, it's definitely worth checking out.