The 2018 Ford Explorer AWD FFV with the 3.5L V6 gets 18 MPG combined. People buy this Explorer configuration for its all-weather traction, reasonable price, and ability to haul a family and their gear in comfort. Fuel economy is a trade-off accepted by Explorer owners.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Ford Explorer AWD FFV 3.5L are 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. This difference reflects how sensitive the engine is to driving style. Stop-and-go traffic and idling hurt the city MPG, and steady highway driving can get you close to, or even a bit above, the EPA estimate. The six-speed automatic transmission is proven and reliable, but it lacks the gears of newer transmissions, which results in lower highway MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Ford Explorer AWD FFV 3.5L is $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation assumes average national fuel prices, so the actual cost will change based on where you live and current gas prices. Drivers in states with higher fuel taxes or those who do more city driving will likely have a higher fuel bill. If you mainly drive on the highway or live where gas is cheaper, you might spend less.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a good starting point, but real-world MPG often varies. You’ll probably see lower numbers if you often tow, carry heavy loads, or drive fast. The 3.5L V6 has enough power, but it has to work harder when the vehicle is loaded, which hurts fuel consumption. Careful driving, regular maintenance, and proper tire inflation can help you match, or even beat, the EPA estimates. The Explorer’s trip computer shows real-time and average fuel economy data, which helps you monitor your driving.

How it compares

The 2018 Ford Explorer AWD FFV 3.5L isn’t the best when compared to other three-row SUVs. A 2018 Toyota Highlander AWD with its 3.5L V6 gets an EPA combined rating of 20 MPG. The Honda Pilot AWD also gets 20 MPG combined. Even the Acura MDX SH-AWD, which is larger and more luxurious, gets 21 MPG combined. For people considering an Explorer, this fuel economy difference often comes down to priorities. The Explorer usually costs less upfront than some competitors, depending on the trim level. The Explorer also looks tougher, like a truck, which some buyers like. Explore EXPLORER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking can really improve fuel economy in the 2018 Ford Explorer. The 3.5L V6 responds well to a light touch on the gas pedal, so avoid accelerating hard if you can avoid it. Watch the traffic so you can brake less and keep a steady speed when you can.

Tire inflation is critical for good fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often and inflate your tires to the level recommended by the manufacturer, which is usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Tires with low pressure increase rolling resistance, causing the engine to work harder and burn fuel.

Reduce weight and aerodynamic drag. Take off any cargo or roof racks you don’t need, because they can make your fuel economy worse. Every extra pound adds to the engine’s workload, and more drag makes the car less aerodynamic, particularly at highway speeds.

Think about using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control keeps a consistent speed, which can help you save gas compared to using the gas pedal yourself. Be careful of hills, and turn off cruise control there, because the car might downshift too aggressively to keep up speed, which cancels out any fuel savings. Drivers should explore all Ford fuel economy data when considering their decision.