23 MPG combined is the EPA estimate for the 2023 Ford Explorer with the 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder and all-wheel drive. While it won’t win any awards for thriftiness, it’s generally acceptable to the Explorer’s target demographic: families who need three rows of seating and all-wheel drive for confident handling in unpredictable weather. This isn’t a vehicle bought for maximum fuel sipping; it’s bought for practicality and its inherent SUV capabilities.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the Explorer’s fuel economy further, estimating 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s need to work harder in stop-and-go traffic, and the added weight of the all-wheel-drive system certainly doesn’t help. The 10-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient rev range. The highway number is more respectable. The Explorer’s aerodynamic shape and the transmission’s ability to settle into a high gear for cruising contribute to better fuel economy on longer trips where all-wheel-drive isn’t as necessary and the Explorer finds itself at constant speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Ford Explorer AWD 2.3L at $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs could vary significantly depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the price of gasoline in your area. Someone who primarily drives short distances in the city will likely spend more than $1,900 per year, while someone who does mostly highway driving may spend less. Gas price fluctuations will naturally have a proportional effect. As gas prices rise and fall, so will the annual cost that the 2.3L EcoBoost engine demands.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary. Expect to see numbers that fluctuate somewhat around the 23 MPG combined rating. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel economy. Conversely, driving cautiously, practicing smooth acceleration, and keeping up on regularly scheduled maintenance can help you get closer to the EPA’s figures. Terrain also matters, mountainous regions will require more fuel than flat midwestern terrain. Consider all of these factors when tracking your EXPLORER MPG across all years.

How it compares

The Explorer’s fuel economy is generally competitive within its class of mid-size, three-row SUVs with all-wheel drive. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, for example, achieves a significantly better 36 MPG combined, but it comes at a higher price point and sacrifices some towing capacity. The Kia Telluride, powered by a V6 and also with all-wheel drive, manages around 21 MPG combined. The Honda Pilot, similarly equipped with a V6 and AWD, lands around 22 MPG combined. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L with a V6 and 4×4 is rated at 21 MPG combined. The Explorer’s four-cylinder engine offers a reasonable balance of performance and fuel economy, especially for buyers who are prioritizing fuel efficiency over outright acceleration. When considering all Ford fuel economy data, the Explorer with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine is a fairly economical choice compared to larger, thirstier SUVs in Ford’s lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Explorer’s 10-speed transmission is designed to keep the engine in its optimal efficiency range, but it can’t compensate for a heavy foot. Gentle acceleration and anticipating stops will minimize fuel consumption. The stop/start feature will also help in this instance by cutting off the engine when completely still in traffic to save an extra mile per gallon.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels specified on the doorjamb sticker.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Especially in colder weather, warming up the engine will negatively impact fuel economy, as it requires the engine to burn richer. Unless in extreme conditions, starting the car up and setting off will be efficient enough.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo in the Explorer adds to its weight, which decreases fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the vehicle to lighten the load and improve efficiency. Remove roof racks or crossbars if they aren’t in use, as these decrease the vehicle’s aerodynamics, and can negatively affect fuel efficiency.