20 MPG combined is what you can expect for the 2023 Ford Explorer Timberline. While it’s not the most fuel-efficient, understanding this figure is key to appreciating what the vehicle offers. No one buys a Timberline expecting Prius-like fuel economy. They buy it for its rugged style, its added ground clearance, its reliable all-wheel-drive system, and its ability to tackle trails that would leave other SUVs stuck. The fuel economy is simply a factor given its capabilities.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Ford Explorer Timberline gets 19 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These figures show fairly consistent fuel consumption, suggesting the 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic transmission operate efficiently across different driving situations. The city MPG reflects the frequent stops in urban environments, where acceleration and braking affect fuel efficiency. The highway MPG, while slightly better, shows the engine’s ability to maintain reasonable economy while cruising. Drivers should know that these numbers are based on ideal conditions, factors like aggressive driving, cargo weight, and harsh weather can change real-world results.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Ford Explorer Timberline AWD at $2,200. This number is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful point of comparison for the Timberline’s running costs compared to other SUVs. Individual spending will change based on local fuel prices, driving habits, and the amount of city versus highway miles driven. Someone who mostly uses their Timberline for short trips around town will likely spend more than $2,200, while someone who mainly drives long distances on the highway might spend less.

Real-world expectations

Your actual MPG will depend on driving habits and conditions. Timberline owners who frequently use the vehicle off-road, or for towing, can expect lower numbers. The added weight of off-road tires and accessories, combined with driving in mud or sand, will reduce fuel efficiency. But drivers who accelerate smoothly, maintain consistent speeds, and minimize idling could get numbers closer to, or even slightly better than, the EPA estimates. The Timberline is a capable SUV built for adventure, and getting there comes with a fuel consumption trade-off.

How it compares

The 2023 Ford Explorer Timberline’s fuel economy is about what you’d expect when compared to other SUVs in its class. The Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, another off-road SUV, gets only 17 MPG combined. The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk, with its V6 engine, gets around 19 MPG combined. Even the Honda Passport Trailsport, typically known for Honda’s efficiency, clocks in at roughly 21 MPG combined. These comparisons show that the Timberline’s 20 MPG is typical for its class; buyers wanting off-road capability know they’re trading some fuel economy. For those who want better mileage, the standard Explorer with the 2.3L is rated at 24 MPG combined, and even the hybrid model achieves 27 MPG, as you can confirm by reviewing EXPLORER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Because the Timberline uses a turbocharged engine, avoid hard acceleration. Gently press the gas pedal to minimize fuel consumption and keep the turbocharger from working harder than necessary. This is important in city driving where frequent stops can quickly use up fuel.

Maintain proper tire inflation. The Timberline’s off-road tires can lose pressure more easily. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, directly affecting fuel economy. Check your tire pressure and make sure it matches the recommended settings on the door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The Timberline is already a heavy vehicle, so don’t carry extra cargo. Removing extra gear from the trunk or roof rack can improve fuel efficiency, especially on long trips. You can see all Ford fuel economy data at FuelEconomyHub.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed can improve fuel economy, especially on flat roads. Cruise control helps to minimize unnecessary acceleration, resulting in more efficient fuel consumption.

Consider using a fuel additive. Some fuel additives can help clean fuel injectors and improve engine performance, potentially improving fuel economy. Research reputable brands and choose an additive designed for turbocharged engines.