20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s the reality for the 2017 Ford Explorer 2WD FFV with its 3.5L V6. This Explorer isn’t about hypermiling; it’s about hauling kids, soccer gear, and the occasional Home Depot supplies, and providing comfortable family transport for road trips. Its buyers prioritize space, practicality, and the perceived safety of a larger vehicle, and they’re willing to accept middling fuel economy as the price of admission.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Ford Explorer 2WD FFV at 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the Explorer’s weight and aerodynamics. In stop-and-go city driving, the 3.5L V6 works harder, especially when loaded with passengers and cargo. The highway number, while better, still isn’t stellar due to the vehicle’s size and frontal area. The transmission’s overdrive ratios help on the open road, but physics always wins. Drivers who stick to lower speeds and anticipate traffic flow will see results closer to the EPA estimate, but aggressive acceleration and heavy braking will definitely lower those numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Explorer 2WD FFV at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s crucial to remember that this is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the amount of city versus highway driving you do. If you live in an area with higher-than-average fuel prices or drive significantly more than 15,000 miles per year, expect to exceed that $2,200 figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing methodology, real-world MPG can vary significantly. Explorer owners often report numbers close to, but often slightly below, the EPA estimates. Expect 15-19 MPG in predominantly city driving and 22-26 MPG on long highway trips when driven conservatively. Towing or carrying heavy loads will further decrease fuel economy. Drivers who frequently tow should consider a truck-based SUV instead. Wind resistance also plays a big role, with headwinds notably reducing MPG at highway speeds. As always, careful driving offers the best chance of meeting or even exceeding the EPA estimates.

How it compares

The 2017 Ford Explorer’s fuel economy puts it middle-of-the-pack compared to its competitors. The Toyota Highlander with its 3.5L V6 achieves a slightly better 22 MPG combined, while the Honda Pilot with its 3.5L V6 also manages around 22 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Traverse, another popular three-row SUV, posts numbers similar to the Explorer at 18 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. Even within Ford’s own lineup all all Ford fuel economy data proves to vary across trims and model years. The smaller Ford Edge, for example, offers better fuel economy, but sacrifices third-row seating. For Explorer shoppers, the choice often comes down to balancing fuel efficiency with the need for space, towing capacity, and other features. Owners should also check EXPLORER MPG across all years to see how the model generation performs across the years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are key to maximizing fuel economy in the Explorer. Avoid jackrabbit starts and hard stops, as these actions waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed to reduce the need for frequent acceleration and deceleration. The 3.5L V6 responds well to a light foot, so focusing on smooth, gradual movements can make a big difference.

Tire pressure significantly impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it’s inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended level, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. A simple tire pressure check can yield noticeable improvements.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Excess cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove any items from the Explorer that you don’t need on a daily basis, such as sporting equipment, tools, or other bulky items. The lighter the vehicle, the less fuel it will consume.