Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid. This SUV has been making waves, and we're here to give you the lowdown on everything it offers. From its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior comfort and technology, we'll cover all the bases to help you decide if this is the right ride for you. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is designed to offer a blend of power and efficiency, making it a compelling option for those who want the benefits of an SUV without the guilt of excessive fuel consumption. At the heart of this hybrid SUV is a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provides ample power for daily commutes, family road trips, and even some light towing. The Explorer Limited Hybrid can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is quite impressive for a hybrid SUV. The instant torque from the electric motor enhances the overall driving experience, providing quick acceleration and smooth transitions between electric and gasoline power. One of the standout features of the Explorer Limited Hybrid is its fuel efficiency. It achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined. These figures are significantly better than the non-hybrid Explorer models, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers. The hybrid system seamlessly integrates with the vehicle's operation, providing electric-only driving at lower speeds and during gentle acceleration. This not only saves fuel but also reduces emissions, contributing to a greener environment. The Explorer Limited Hybrid also comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission that ensures smooth and efficient gear changes. The transmission is well-tuned to the hybrid system, optimizing performance and fuel economy. Additionally, the Explorer offers various drive modes, including a dedicated Eco mode, which further enhances fuel efficiency by adjusting the vehicle's settings. These enhancements collectively make the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid a strong contender in the hybrid SUV market. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a balanced and efficient driving experience.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid, you'll immediately notice the attention to detail and the array of features designed for comfort and convenience. The cabin is spacious and well-appointed, offering plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The Limited trim comes standard with leather upholstery, providing a touch of luxury and enhancing the overall feel of the interior. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives more enjoyable for both the driver and passengers. The front seats are heated and ventilated, ensuring optimal comfort in any weather. The second-row seats are also heated, adding to the comfort of rear passengers. One of the standout features of the Explorer Limited Hybrid is its advanced technology. The centerpiece of the dashboard is an 8-inch touchscreen display that runs Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system. This system is user-friendly and responsive, offering seamless integration with smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SYNC 3 system also includes voice recognition, allowing you to control various functions of the vehicle without taking your hands off the wheel. In addition to the touchscreen display, the Explorer Limited Hybrid also features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. This display provides a wealth of information about the vehicle, including speed, fuel economy, and navigation directions. The digital instrument cluster is customizable, allowing you to tailor the display to your preferences. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid also comes with a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system. This system delivers crisp and clear audio, making your favorite music sound even better. The sound system includes 12 speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin, providing an immersive listening experience. Other notable technology features include a wireless charging pad, multiple USB ports, and a 360-degree camera system. The wireless charging pad allows you to charge your smartphone without the need for cables, while the USB ports provide convenient charging options for other devices. The 360-degree camera system provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. These features collectively make the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid a technologically advanced and comfortable SUV.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid doesn't hold back. Ford has equipped this SUV with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. These features not only help prevent accidents but also mitigate the severity of collisions if they occur. Standard safety features on the Explorer Limited Hybrid include Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of driver-assist technologies that enhance awareness and provide added peace of mind. This suite includes features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring uses sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots, alerting you to their presence with a visual warning in the side mirrors. Rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space or driveway. Lane-keeping assist helps you stay in your lane by providing gentle steering corrections if you start to drift. Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate the severity of an accident. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a safe following distance. In addition to these standard features, the Explorer Limited Hybrid also offers optional safety features such as evasive steering assist and post-collision braking. Evasive steering assist provides additional steering support to help you avoid collisions when you need to make a sudden maneuver. Post-collision braking automatically applies the brakes after a collision to help prevent secondary impacts. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid has also performed well in crash tests, earning high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings reflect the vehicle's robust construction and effective safety features. With its comprehensive suite of safety features and strong crash-test ratings, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid provides a safe and secure driving experience for you and your loved ones. Whether you're driving around town or embarking on a long road trip, you can have confidence knowing that the Explorer Limited Hybrid is equipped to protect you.

Pricing and Value

The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a compelling blend of features, performance, and fuel efficiency, making it a strong contender in the hybrid SUV market. However, it's essential to consider the pricing and overall value proposition when making your decision. The starting price for the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is around $50,000. This price is higher than the non-hybrid Explorer models, but it reflects the added cost of the hybrid powertrain and the additional features that come standard on the Limited trim. While the initial price may seem steep, it's important to consider the long-term cost savings associated with owning a hybrid vehicle. The Explorer Limited Hybrid offers significantly better fuel economy than its non-hybrid counterparts, which can save you a considerable amount of money on gas over the lifespan of the vehicle. Additionally, some states and municipalities offer tax incentives and rebates for purchasing hybrid vehicles, which can further reduce the overall cost of ownership. When evaluating the value of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid, it's also important to consider the standard features that come with the Limited trim. These features include leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies. These features enhance the overall driving experience and provide added comfort and convenience. Compared to other hybrid SUVs in its class, the Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a competitive value proposition. It provides a similar level of features and performance as its rivals, but at a slightly lower price point. Additionally, the Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a more spacious interior and a higher towing capacity than many of its competitors. Ultimately, the value of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and a comfortable interior, the Explorer Limited Hybrid is an excellent choice. However, if you're on a tight budget or don't need the added features of the Limited trim, you may want to consider a lower trim level or a non-hybrid Explorer model. But, its performance and comfort make it a good choice if you can afford it.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid? Overall, this SUV is a solid choice for those looking to blend efficiency with the practicality of a mid-size SUV. You get a good amount of space, a decent set of tech features, and the fuel savings that come with a hybrid powertrain. It's not the cheapest option out there, but it does offer a compelling package for families or individuals who want to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing comfort and convenience. If you value fuel economy and appreciate a well-equipped interior, the Explorer Limited Hybrid is definitely worth considering. However, be sure to weigh the cost against your needs and budget to determine if it's the right fit for you. Thanks for joining us on this deep dive, and we hope this review has been helpful in your car-buying journey!