19 MPG combined is the fuel economy for the 2017 Ford Explorer AWD FFV equipped with the 3.5L V6. This isn’t a Prius, and it doesn’t pretend to be. Ford engineered this Explorer to haul families, tow small trailers, and handle snowy roads, and the fuel economy reflects those priorities. This specific configuration appeals to buyers who need the added confidence of all-wheel drive and perhaps the flexibility of a flex-fuel engine, understanding that those features come with a predictable fuel penalty.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Ford Explorer AWD FFV at 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, which takes a toll on a vehicle of this size and weight. The highway number is more palatable, showing that the Explorer can achieve reasonable efficiency on longer trips when driven with restraint. Note that these numbers are averages. Aggressive acceleration or consistently exceeding the speed limit will quickly reduce the observed MPG. Payload also matters; loading up the Explorer with passengers and gear will reduce economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Explorer AWD FFV at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. Keep in mind your actual fuel costs could be higher or lower, depending on how often you drive, how you drive, and the price of gasoline in your area. For those covering significantly more than 15,000 miles annually, particularly in urban environments, expect to exceed this estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy often varies. Many Explorer owners report fuel economy figures that are close to the EPA estimates, if they drive conservatively. Lower fuel economy is frequently reported among drivers who frequently tow, live in hilly areas, or drive aggressively. The availability of the flex-fuel engine further clouds expectations. When running on E85 (a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline), fuel economy will decrease significantly compared to gasoline. Consider that EXPLORER MPG across all years is useful data, but each model year and configuration will have different real-world results.

How it compares

The 2017 Ford Explorer AWD FFV exists in a competitive segment. The Toyota Highlander AWD typically achieves slightly better fuel economy, with EPA ratings of 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway for the V6 model. The Honda Pilot AWD also offers better numbers, around 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. The difference in MPG may seem small, but it can add up over time, especially for high-mileage drivers. The Explorer offers a different driving experience and often offers more competitive pricing, depending on trim level and incentives. For buyers prioritizing less gas, the Nissan Pathfinder (rated around 19 city and 26 highway for AWD models) is another option to consider, understanding that each option carries its own tradeoffs in space, capability, and driving dynamics. For more information, all Ford fuel economy data is available.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are crucial for maximizing fuel economy in the Explorer. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, as these actions consume more fuel. Maintaining a steady speed on the highway also helps. The Explorer’s automatic transmission is programmed to shift into higher gears quickly, which can enhance fuel economy, but it only works if your driving style matches.

Tire pressure impacts rolling resistance, which in turn affects fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires create more friction and reduce fuel efficiency. This Explorer trim level may require a tire pressure adjustment based on its payload capacity.

Avoid excessive idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. This is especially relevant in city driving where frequent stops are unavoidable.

Reduce aerodynamic drag by removing roof racks or cargo carriers when they’re not needed. These accessories create wind resistance and reduce fuel economy, particularly at highway speeds. Emptying unnecessary cargo from the vehicle can also improve MPG, although its impact may be less noticeable compared to aerodynamic improvements.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. This can help to improve fuel economy by preventing you from inadvertently accelerating or decelerating unnecessarily. Be cautious of using cruise control in hilly terrain, as it can sometimes cause the transmission to downshift frequently, which consumes more fuel.