A Trim-By-Trim Guide to the 2022 Ford Explorer

If you’re searching for a new Ford Explorer, you probably have a lot of questions. The new 2022 model has eight different trim levels, not to mention eight different exterior color options to match. As you can see, it’s not as easy as going to Kate Faupel Ford, your local Ford Explorer dealer, and saying, “I want the new 2022 Ford Explorer, please!” That’s why we’re here to help you out. We’ve got details on this model’s specs and features, along with the differences between each trim level. Let’s get started.

Engine Options and Performance Specs

Power and capacity are some of the most important specs to factor in if you’re looking for a larger, family-friendly SUV. The good news is that the Explorer is capable no matter which engine option you choose. The 2022 Ford Explorer offers three different engines: a 2.3-liter EcoBoost Turbo I-4, a 3.0-liter EcoBoost Turbo V6, and a 3.3-liter Hybrid V6. All three engine options have similar towing capacities, ranging between 5,000 and 5,600 lbs.

Folks who don’t need any additional towing capacity will benefit most from the Explorer’s hybrid engine. It produces more horsepower and torque than the base EcoBoost I-4 engine and can still tow up to 5,000 lbs. Plus, it gets the best EPA-estimated fuel-efficiency ratings at up to 27 MPG combined. The I-4 engine follows closely behind at up to 24 MPG combined, but it can tow 300 lbs more than the hybrid engine.

For maximum power, you can opt for the EcoBoost V6 engine, which offers 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque for an overall 5,600 lbs of max towing capacity. While this engine does take a fuel efficiency cut compared to the other engine options, it still offers up to an estimated 21 MPG combined. A 10-speed automatic transmission is standard no matter which engine you choose.

Available on Every Trim Level

Trim levels aside, there’s plenty more to the 2022 Ford Explorer. Every new Explorer trim comes with standard driver-assistance features thanks to Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes Auto High-Beam Headlamps, a Rear View Camera, and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control. It also offers more distinct technologies such as a Lane-Keeping System, Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, and Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking.

The Explorer also has the impressive SYNC 3 infotainment system, which allows you to access multiple applications, music streaming, navigation, and more via voice-activated and touchscreen controls. Finally, every trim level can offer up to 87.8 cu.ft. of cargo space, and the 2022 Explorer can seat up to seven passengers in its three rows of comfortable seats.

Trim Level Differences

Picking a suitable Ford Explorer trim level is no easy task. Each trim has unique features, from the base-level Explorer to the high-end Explorer Platinum and everything in between. We’re looking at each trim level and its features to help you decide which one’s the best fit for you.

2022 Explorer Base

Thanks to Ford’s trim lineup and pricing, you don’t have to spend a lot to get impressive features. This trim level includes automatic LED headlights, LED taillights, and a standard Reverse Sensing System. It also has a power liftgate and second and third-row privacy glass. One of our favorite features is the standard Tri-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control, which allows the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers to individually adjust the temperature to meet their preferences. Additional features include the standard Lane-Keeping System, Rear View Camera with Washer, and one-touch power front windows.

2022 Explorer XLT

The XLT comes with everything the base Explorer does, plus a few additional features. One new option for the 2022 Explorer XLT is the Sport Appearance Package, which includes a number of aesthetic upgrades from 20-inch wheels to two-tone Ebony/Light Slate seating. This trim also comes with more optional comfort and convenience features, such as a twin-panel moonroof, wireless charging pad, remote start, and more.

2022 Explorer ST-Line

Are you looking for more than your regular driver-assist features such as automatic braking and forward collision warning? The 2022 Ford Explorer ST-Line has you covered. This trim level includes standard Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, an upgrade from the normal Ford Co-Pilot360 that includes higher-end driver-assist features such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Lane Centering. The Explorer ST-Line also includes ActiveX seating material and a 12-speaker B&O sound system.

2022 Explorer Timberline

The 2022 Explorer Timberline is made for off-roading and outdoorsy drivers. It includes steel underbody skid plates to help prevent damage from rocks, logs, and debris. This trim level also offers a 3.58 Torsen limited-slip rear differential, which shifts torque to the wheel that needs it most–an essential feature for off-roading adventures. The Explorer Timberline has unique aesthetics, including a Dark Carbonized Gray grille and High Gloss Black painted aluminum wheels.

2022 Explorer Limited

The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited is a modern twist on an old favorite. This trim offers a 3.3-liter hybrid engine, making it the most fuel-efficient Explorer on the market. It has an upgraded interior, offering standard heated and ventilated leather-trimmed seating. Those who love built-in navigation will be happy with the Explorer Limited’s Voice-Activated Touchscreen Navigation System.

2022 Explorer ST

Luxury-level features appear more and more as you climb the trim lineup. As expected, leather seating is part of that upgrade. The Explorer ST trim includes leather seating surfaces with silver stitching and an “ST” logo. Performance-wise, this trim has the EcoBoost V6 engine option with Intelligent 4WD and seven different drive modes standard. You’ll also get Hill Descent Control, which makes inclines far less intimidating. It’s essentially downhill cruise control for off-roaders.

2022 Explorer King Ranch

Ford introduced the Texas-inspired King Ranch trim in 2001. While it first appeared for the F-150, the King Ranch has made its way over to the Explorer, bringing Del Rio leather seating and shiny 20-inch 10-spoke wheels. Looks aren’t everything, though, which is why the 2022 Explorer King Ranch comes with the potent EcoBoost V6 engine standard plus Stop-Start technology to mitigate its higher fuel consumption.

2022 Explorer Platinum

If for some reason, the King Ranch trim just isn’t luxurious enough for you, there’s the 2022 Explorer Platinum. This model comes with Tri-Diamond Perforated Leather seating surfaces, a twin-panel moonroof, and a 980-watt 14-speaker sound system with a built-in subwoofer. The Explorer Platinum also comes standard with Active Park Assist 2.0, which parks the vehicle for you as long as you’re paying attention behind the wheel.

Which Trim Level Is Best for Me?

It’s safe to say that when you’re looking at the 2022 Ford Explorer, there are plenty of options for every buyer. Thanks to eight different trim levels that cater to many different drivers, variety is abundant. Keeping that in mind, remember that no trim level is necessarily “better” than any other. Sure, the more expensive trim levels do come with the most luxurious features; however, when it comes to performance, there are variations throughout the lineup.

It’s not necessarily better to go with the Platinum trim if you need 4×4 capability, for example. Instead, you’ll want to go with the Explorer Timberline, which offers off-road-specific features. Likewise, if high-speed handling is on your wishlist, look for the Explorer ST. Meanwhile, families and commuters may be perfectly fine with the base-level Explorer or Explorer XLT.

It all depends on your particular lifestyle. While this outline certainly helps the Explorer buying process, you may still have some unanswered questions. That’s why we’re here. When you’re ready to find your Ford Explorer dealership and make the next move, the team here at Kate Faupel Ford will be happy to help you out.

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