2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid Expert Review
Reviewed by Kelly Lin
Ford is saving the plug-in Explorer for Europe, so the traditional hybrid model is the greenest Explorer you'll find here in the U.S. The 2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid boasts better fuel economy than the rest of the Explorer range, but is only available in two trims: Limited and Platinum. Its closest competitor is the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
For the 2022 model year, the Explorer Hybrid carries over mostly unchanged. Burgundy Velvet and Stone Blue are new color options this year.
What We Think
The Explorer Hybrid is capable both on and off the beaten path. Although it's slower than Explorers with the base four-cylinder engine and the upgraded twin-turbo V-6, the hybrid feels pretty quick off the line. It doesn't suffer from the unnatural brake feel that plagues many hybrids. With optional AWD, the hybrid SUV tackled a challenging off-road course with aplomb. Towing capacity is impressive at 5,000 pounds.
However, the hybrid Explorer has some serious shortcomings for those seeking a hybrid three-row SUV. The six-cylinder Ford isn't particularly efficient, especially when compared to the four-cylinder Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Kia Sorento Hybrid. In past reviews, we've also complained about cheap plastics and low-quality leather inside the cabin. The Ford Explorer Hybrid is competent, but perhaps not the most well-rounded vehicle, nor the most affordable. We recommend test driving other three-row SUVs before signing on the dotted line.
Performance and Fuel Economy
All Explorer Hybrids come with a 3.3-liter naturally aspirated V-6 engine and electric motor. Together, they produce 318 hp. Power is routed through a 10-speed automatic transmission. In our tests, an Explorer Hybrid ran to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds, making it quicker than the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, which took 8.4 seconds.
Fuel economy tops out at 27/28 mpg city/highway when paired with RWD. Compare that to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid's best figure of 36/35 mpg. AWD Explorer Hybrids get 23/26 mpg.
Safety Ratings and Features
The 2022 Ford Explorer nabbed a 2022 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, earning Good scores in all crash test categories and an Acceptable headlight score.
Standard safety features on the 2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, and lane keep assist. Adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system are also included.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Ford doesn't sacrifice interior space for hybrid efficiency. The Explorer Hybrid boasts the same amount of legroom and cargo space as other Explorers. Interior dimensions compare favorably to the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
In our testing, we've found the Explorer's second-row seats to be spacious, but the third row a bit tough to exit. Six and seven-passenger versions of the Explorer Hybrid are available.
Cargo space (behind first/second/third rows):
2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid: 87.8/47.9/18.2 cubic feet
2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid: 84.3/48.4/16.0 cubic feet
Legroom (first/second/third rows):
2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid: 43.0/39.0/32.2 inches
2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid: 42.0/41.0/27.7 inches
Technology
An 8.0-inch touchscreen is standard on the Explorer Hybrid Limited. It runs on Sync 3 and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, plus voice-activated navigation. Upgrade to the Platinum, and you're looking at a 10.1-inch touchscreen. A B&O sound system is included.
What's This About an Explorer Plug-In Hybrid?
Customers in the U.S. can buy a plug-in hybrid version of the Ford Escape, but not the larger Explorer. In 2020, Ford debuted a plug-in hybrid version of the Explorer for Europe, and it's quite powerful, at least on paper. Equipped with standard AWD, this SUV makes a total of 450 hp and 608 lb-ft of torque. Electric driving range was estimated at around 25 miles in the city. The closest thing we have in the U.S. to an Explorer plug-in hybrid is the Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring.
