19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it’s a figure many 2016 Ford Explorer owners readily accept as the price of owning one. This isn’t a vehicle designed for hypermiling; it’s a capable family hauler with available all-wheel drive and the space to carry people and cargo. The 3.5L V6, while not the most efficient engine in its class, delivers enough power for everyday driving and the occasional adventure. That’s what matters most to its target demographic.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway show the Explorer’s expected performance. Stop-and-go city driving significantly impacts its fuel consumption, while highway cruising allows the engine to settle into a more efficient rhythm. These numbers aren’t surprising for a vehicle of this size and weight with a naturally aspirated V6 and all-wheel drive. It’s a compromise many SUV buyers are willing to make for the added utility and safety that the Explorer provides.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ford Explorer AWD FFV 3.5L 6-cyl is $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This cost is a critical factor for potential buyers, especially those with larger families and tighter budgets. It’s realistic to assume this is a minimum figure, as many Explorer owners will likely exceed the 15,000-mile annual mileage, further increasing fuel expenses. The EPA only considers gasoline prices when calculating the “annual fuel cost” estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving habits, terrain, and load. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Smooth driving, consistent highway speeds, and proper tire inflation can help achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates, or even slightly better in ideal conditions. Many owners of the 2016 Explorer AWD FFV, specifically with the 3.5L V6 engine, won’t experience better-than-labeled MPG because of the vehicle’s age and relative mechanical inefficiencies compared to newer models.

How it compares

In the mid-size SUV segment, the 2016 Ford Explorer’s fuel economy sits squarely in the middle of the pack. For example, the 2016 Toyota Highlander AWD with its 3.5L V6 manages a slightly better 20 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Traverse, another large offering from the same year, gets around 17 MPG combined. Even some V8-powered SUVs from the same era, such as the Dodge Durango, offer comparable or slightly improved fuel economy in certain configurations. Buyers prioritize other factors like space, towing capacity, and features, sometimes accepting less gas mileage in return. You can view all Ford fuel economy data and see how it compares.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2016 Ford Explorer’s 6-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth, but shifting into “Sport” mode will hurt your MPG. Keep it in standard “Drive” for best efficiency. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as the vehicle is heavy and requires more gradual inputs to maintain momentum. Smooth, consistent driving is key to maximizing fuel economy.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Refer to the sticker on the driver’s side door jamb for the correct tire pressure, and check it regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Avoid extended idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently. Idling consumes fuel unnecessarily, especially in the Explorer’s V6 engine.

Use cruise control whenever appropriate on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps the engine operate at its most efficient level, reducing fuel consumption. Be mindful of terrain and traffic conditions, and disengage cruise control as needed for safety.

Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, is important for good fuel economy. A clean air filter ensures proper airflow to the engine, while fresh oil reduces friction and improves efficiency. See all EXPLORER MPG across all years and learn about the differences between models.