Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid, a fantastic SUV that blends practicality with fuel efficiency. If you're in the market for a family-friendly vehicle that doesn't guzzle gas, this might just be the perfect fit. We're going to cover everything from its performance and fuel economy to its interior features and technology. Buckle up, because we're about to explore what makes this hybrid SUV a compelling choice for today's drivers.

Performance and Powertrain

The heart of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is its robust powertrain, which combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor. This dynamic duo delivers a combined output of 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily commutes and weekend adventures. The electric motor adds a noticeable boost, especially during acceleration, making the Explorer Hybrid feel responsive and energetic. The transition between gasoline and electric power is seamless, contributing to a smooth and refined driving experience.

The Explorer Hybrid's 10-speed automatic transmission further enhances its performance, offering quick and precise shifts. This transmission optimizes power delivery and contributes to the vehicle's overall efficiency. Whether you're cruising on the highway or navigating city streets, the transmission ensures that the engine is always operating in its sweet spot. The intelligent design of the transmission also helps to minimize fuel consumption, making the Explorer Hybrid an eco-conscious choice.

Furthermore, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but offers available all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and stability. The all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence in challenging weather conditions, such as snow or rain. It distributes power to the wheels that need it most, helping to maintain control and stability. This feature makes the Explorer Hybrid a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of driving situations. The Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a great balance of power, efficiency, and capability, making it a standout in the hybrid SUV segment. With its strong performance, smooth transmission, and available all-wheel drive, it's a vehicle that's ready for anything.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

One of the most compelling reasons to consider the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is its impressive fuel economy. With an EPA-estimated rating of 27 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined, this hybrid SUV offers significant savings at the pump compared to its non-hybrid counterparts. These numbers are particularly impressive for a vehicle of this size and capability, making the Explorer Hybrid an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. By combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor, Ford has created a vehicle that delivers both power and efficiency.

The Explorer Hybrid's regenerative braking system also contributes to its fuel efficiency. This system captures energy that would otherwise be lost during braking and uses it to recharge the battery. This not only helps to extend the vehicle's electric range but also reduces wear and tear on the brakes. The regenerative braking system operates seamlessly, providing a natural and responsive braking feel. It's just one of the many technologies that Ford has incorporated into the Explorer Hybrid to maximize its efficiency.

In real-world driving conditions, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid consistently delivers impressive fuel economy. Drivers report achieving numbers that are close to the EPA estimates, even in demanding driving situations. This is a testament to the vehicle's well-engineered hybrid system and its ability to seamlessly transition between gasoline and electric power. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a road trip, the Explorer Hybrid will help you save money on fuel while reducing your carbon footprint. If you're looking for an SUV that's both practical and environmentally friendly, the Explorer Hybrid is definitely worth considering.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Step inside the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid, and you'll be greeted by a spacious and well-appointed interior. The Limited trim offers a range of premium features, including leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable steering wheel. These amenities provide a high level of comfort for both the driver and passengers, making long journeys more enjoyable. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, and the cabin is designed to minimize noise and vibration, creating a relaxed and refined atmosphere.

The Explorer Hybrid also boasts an impressive array of technology features. The centerpiece of the dashboard is an 8-inch touchscreen display, which houses Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system. This system is intuitive and easy to use, with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. These smartphone integration technologies allow you to seamlessly connect your mobile device to the vehicle, enabling you to access your favorite apps, make calls, and send texts using voice commands. The SYNC 3 system also includes navigation, which provides turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates.

Additionally, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid comes standard with a suite of advanced safety technologies, including blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to enhance driver awareness and prevent accidents. The blind-spot monitoring system alerts you when a vehicle is in your blind spot, while the lane-keeping assist system helps to keep you centered in your lane. The automatic emergency braking system can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if you don't respond in time. With its combination of comfort, technology, and safety features, the Explorer Hybrid offers a well-rounded and enjoyable driving experience. It's a vehicle that's designed to make your life easier and more convenient.

Cargo Space and Versatility

When it comes to cargo space and versatility, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid doesn't disappoint. With all three rows of seats in place, it offers 18.2 cubic feet of cargo volume, which is enough for groceries or luggage. When you fold down the third-row seats, the cargo space expands to 47.9 cubic feet, providing ample room for larger items. And when you fold down both the second and third-row seats, the Explorer Hybrid offers a maximum cargo capacity of 87.8 cubic feet. This is comparable to many full-size SUVs, making the Explorer Hybrid a practical choice for families and individuals who need to haul a lot of gear.

The Explorer Hybrid's versatile seating configuration also allows you to customize the interior to meet your specific needs. The second-row seats can be easily folded down to create a flat load floor, making it easier to load and unload bulky items. The third-row seats are also easy to operate, and they can be quickly folded down or raised to accommodate passengers or cargo. The Explorer Hybrid's flexible interior design ensures that you'll always have the space you need, whether you're transporting passengers, hauling cargo, or both.

Moreover, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is equipped with a range of features that enhance its versatility. These include a power liftgate, which makes it easier to access the cargo area, and roof rails, which allow you to carry additional items on top of the vehicle. The power liftgate can be operated with the touch of a button, and it can also be programmed to open to a specific height. The roof rails provide a secure and convenient way to transport items like bicycles, kayaks, or luggage. With its combination of cargo space, versatile seating, and practical features, the Explorer Hybrid is a vehicle that's ready for anything. Whether you're running errands around town or embarking on a long road trip, the Explorer Hybrid will help you transport your passengers and cargo in comfort and style.

Safety Features

Ford has equipped the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid with a comprehensive suite of safety features, making it a safe and reliable choice for families. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. These features work together to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The anti-lock brakes prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking, while the stability control system helps to maintain control of the vehicle in slippery conditions. The traction control system prevents wheel spin, ensuring that power is distributed evenly to the wheels.

In addition to these standard safety features, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid also comes standard with a range of advanced safety technologies. These include blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The blind-spot monitoring system alerts you when a vehicle is in your blind spot, while the lane-keeping assist system helps to keep you centered in your lane. The automatic emergency braking system can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if you don't respond in time. These advanced safety features provide an extra layer of protection, helping to prevent accidents and minimize the severity of collisions.

Furthermore, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid has earned excellent safety ratings from government and independent organizations. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given the Explorer Hybrid a 5-star overall safety rating, while the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named it a Top Safety Pick. These ratings are a testament to the vehicle's robust construction and its comprehensive suite of safety features. With its combination of standard safety features, advanced safety technologies, and excellent safety ratings, the Explorer Hybrid offers peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

Pricing and Value

The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a compelling value proposition in the hybrid SUV segment. With a starting price of around $50,000, it's competitively priced compared to other hybrid SUVs in its class. While the initial investment may be higher than a non-hybrid SUV, the Explorer Hybrid's superior fuel economy can help you save money in the long run. Over the course of several years, the savings on fuel can add up to a significant amount, offsetting the initial price premium.

In addition to its fuel efficiency, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid also offers a range of premium features and technologies that enhance its value. The Limited trim comes standard with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, and an 8-inch touchscreen display with Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system. These features provide a high level of comfort and convenience, making the Explorer Hybrid a pleasure to drive and own.

Moreover, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is backed by Ford's comprehensive warranty, which provides coverage for 3 years or 36,000 miles. The powertrain is covered for 5 years or 60,000 miles, and the hybrid components are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles. This warranty provides peace of mind, knowing that you're protected against unexpected repairs. With its combination of fuel efficiency, premium features, and comprehensive warranty, the Explorer Hybrid offers excellent value for the money. It's a vehicle that's designed to provide years of reliable and enjoyable service.