2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid: Review, Specs & More
Hey guys! Are you thinking about getting a new SUV that’s not only spacious and comfortable but also good for the environment? Well, let’s dive into the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid. This car is an excellent choice for families and adventurers alike, blending Ford's rugged Explorer heritage with modern hybrid technology. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about this amazing vehicle, from its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior features and technology. So, buckle up and get ready for an in-depth exploration!
Overview of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid
The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid represents a fantastic blend of capability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It's designed to meet the needs of modern families and adventurers who want a vehicle that can handle daily commutes and weekend getaways with equal ease. As part of the popular Ford Explorer lineup, the Limited Hybrid trim adds an extra layer of sophistication and eco-friendliness to the mix. This SUV stands out due to its hybrid powertrain, which combines a traditional gasoline engine with an electric motor to deliver improved fuel economy and reduced emissions. This makes it an ideal choice for environmentally conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on space or power. In terms of exterior design, the Explorer Limited Hybrid maintains the bold and recognizable look of the Explorer family. It features a distinctive grille, sleek lines, and modern lighting, giving it a commanding presence on the road. The interior is equally impressive, with premium materials, comfortable seating, and a host of tech features designed to enhance the driving experience. The Limited trim adds luxurious touches such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium audio system. One of the key highlights of the 2022 Explorer Limited Hybrid is its spaciousness. With three rows of seating, it can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers, making it perfect for large families or carpooling. The rear seats can be easily folded down to create ample cargo space, allowing you to transport everything from groceries to sports equipment with ease. Under the hood, the Explorer Limited Hybrid features a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 318 horsepower. This powertrain provides plenty of power for accelerating, towing, and tackling various driving conditions. The hybrid system also helps to improve fuel economy, allowing you to save money at the pump and reduce your carbon footprint. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is equipped with a range of advanced technology features, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. These features work together to keep you connected, entertained, and safe on the road. Whether you're navigating city streets or embarking on a long road trip, the Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
When it comes to performance, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid doesn't disappoint. The combination of a 3.3-liter V6 engine and an electric motor delivers a robust 318 horsepower, ensuring you have enough power for any situation. Whether you're merging onto the highway, climbing steep hills, or towing a trailer, this SUV offers confident acceleration and responsive handling. The hybrid powertrain provides instant torque from the electric motor, giving you a quick boost of power when you need it most. This makes the Explorer Limited Hybrid feel lively and engaging to drive, even in challenging conditions. The 10-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth and seamless gear changes, further enhancing the driving experience. One of the key benefits of the hybrid system is its ability to improve fuel efficiency. The Explorer Limited Hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. This is a significant improvement over the standard gasoline-powered Explorer, allowing you to save money on fuel costs and reduce your environmental impact. The hybrid system also includes features such as regenerative braking, which captures energy during deceleration and stores it in the battery. This helps to further improve fuel efficiency and extend the driving range of the vehicle. In addition to its impressive fuel economy, the Explorer Limited Hybrid also offers excellent towing capabilities. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for hauling boats, trailers, and other recreational equipment. This makes it a versatile choice for families who enjoy outdoor activities and need a vehicle that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures. The Explorer Limited Hybrid also comes with a range of driving modes that allow you to customize the vehicle's performance to suit your preferences. These modes include Normal, Sport, Eco, Tow/Haul, and Trail, each of which adjusts the engine, transmission, and other settings to optimize performance for different driving conditions. Whether you're looking for maximum fuel efficiency, sporty handling, or enhanced off-road capability, the Explorer Limited Hybrid has a mode to suit your needs. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a compelling combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and versatility. It's a great choice for drivers who want a capable and efficient SUV that can handle a variety of driving situations.
Interior and Technology
Stepping inside the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid, you'll immediately notice the attention to detail and the high-quality materials used throughout the cabin. The interior is designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious experience for both the driver and passengers. The Limited trim adds premium touches such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. These features enhance the overall ambiance of the cabin and make every journey a pleasure. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing ample comfort for long drives. The second-row seats can be easily adjusted to provide more legroom for passengers in the third row, ensuring everyone has enough space to stretch out. The third-row seats are also surprisingly comfortable, making the Explorer Limited Hybrid a great choice for families with older children or adults who need to ride in the back. In terms of technology, the Explorer Limited Hybrid is packed with features designed to keep you connected, entertained, and safe on the road. The centerpiece of the dashboard is a large touchscreen infotainment system, which provides access to navigation, music, phone calls, and other functions. The system is intuitive and easy to use, with clear graphics and responsive touch controls. It also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the vehicle. The Explorer Limited Hybrid also comes with a premium audio system, which delivers crisp and clear sound throughout the cabin. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, you'll enjoy a rich and immersive audio experience. The vehicle also includes a range of driver-assistance technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features help to improve safety and reduce the risk of accidents. Adaptive cruise control maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, while lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you if there is a vehicle in your blind spot, making it easier to change lanes safely. Other notable technology features include a 360-degree camera system, which provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The Explorer Limited Hybrid also includes a wireless charging pad, allowing you to charge your smartphone without the need for cables. Overall, the interior and technology of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid are designed to provide a comfortable, convenient, and safe driving experience. It's a great choice for drivers who value both luxury and practicality.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority in the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid, and it comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. Ford has incorporated advanced technologies and structural enhancements to ensure that the Explorer Limited Hybrid provides a safe and secure driving experience. One of the key safety features is the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes a range of driver-assistance technologies. These technologies work together to help you avoid accidents and stay safe on the road. The suite includes features such as automatic emergency braking, which can detect pedestrians and vehicles in your path and automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision. It also includes lane-keeping assist, which can detect if you are drifting out of your lane and provide gentle steering assistance to help you stay on course. The Explorer Limited Hybrid also comes with blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you if there is a vehicle in your blind spot, making it easier to change lanes safely. Rear cross-traffic alert is another valuable feature, which alerts you if there is a vehicle approaching from the side while you are backing up. This can be particularly helpful in crowded parking lots or when backing out of a driveway. In addition to these driver-assistance technologies, the Explorer Limited Hybrid also includes a range of passive safety features. These features are designed to protect you in the event of a collision. The vehicle is equipped with a strong and rigid body structure, which helps to absorb and distribute crash energy. It also includes a full complement of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, which provide additional protection for occupants. The Explorer Limited Hybrid has undergone rigorous crash testing by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It has earned high safety ratings from both organizations, demonstrating its commitment to safety. Other notable safety features include a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The Explorer Limited Hybrid also includes a tire pressure monitoring system, which alerts you if your tires are underinflated. This can help to improve fuel efficiency and prevent tire blowouts. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is a safe and reliable SUV that offers a wide range of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. It's a great choice for families who prioritize safety and want a vehicle that can provide peace of mind on the road.
Pricing and Value
When considering the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid, it's important to understand its pricing and overall value proposition. The MSRP for the Explorer Limited Hybrid typically starts around $50,000, but this can vary depending on the options and packages you choose. While this price point may seem high compared to some other SUVs in its class, it's important to consider the features and benefits that the Explorer Limited Hybrid offers. One of the key factors that contribute to its value is its hybrid powertrain. The combination of a gasoline engine and an electric motor provides excellent fuel efficiency, which can save you money on fuel costs over the long term. The Explorer Limited Hybrid also qualifies for certain tax incentives and rebates, which can further reduce the overall cost of ownership. In addition to its fuel efficiency, the Explorer Limited Hybrid also offers a spacious and comfortable interior, a range of advanced technology features, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. These features enhance the overall driving experience and provide added convenience and peace of mind. The Explorer Limited Hybrid also boasts strong resale value, which means you can expect to get a good return on your investment when you eventually decide to sell or trade it in. This is due in part to the Explorer's reputation for reliability and durability, as well as its strong brand recognition. When comparing the Explorer Limited Hybrid to other SUVs in its class, it's important to consider the features and benefits that are most important to you. Some competitors may offer a lower starting price, but they may not offer the same level of fuel efficiency, technology, or safety features. Others may offer similar features, but they may not have the same level of space and comfort. Ultimately, the value of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a spacious, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped SUV that offers a great driving experience and a strong reputation for reliability, then the Explorer Limited Hybrid is definitely worth considering. It's a versatile and capable vehicle that can handle a variety of driving situations, from daily commutes to weekend adventures. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid represents a solid value proposition in the SUV market. Its combination of fuel efficiency, features, and reliability make it a compelling choice for drivers who want a vehicle that can do it all.
Conclusion
So, there you have it, guys! The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is a fantastic SUV that offers a compelling blend of performance, fuel efficiency, interior comfort, and advanced technology. It’s an excellent choice for families and adventurers who want a versatile and capable vehicle that can handle a variety of driving situations. With its spacious interior, comfortable seating, and a host of tech features, the Explorer Limited Hybrid provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience for both the driver and passengers. The hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy, allowing you to save money at the pump and reduce your environmental impact. The comprehensive suite of safety features provides added peace of mind, ensuring you and your loved ones are protected on the road. While the price point may be higher than some other SUVs in its class, the Explorer Limited Hybrid offers a great value proposition when you consider its features, benefits, and strong resale value. If you're in the market for a new SUV, be sure to check out the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid. You might just find that it's the perfect vehicle for your needs. Happy driving!
