21 MPG combined places the 2017 Ford Explorer AWD with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine in the “acceptable but not exceptional” category. For a mid-size SUV prioritizing spaciousness, safety, and all-weather capability over outright fuel efficiency, it’s a compromise many buyers willingly make. These buyers are typically families needing three rows of seating, active individuals requiring cargo space for gear, and those living in climates where all-wheel drive provides genuine peace of mind.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway accurately reflect the Explorer’s behavior in varied driving conditions. The city figure, while not stellar, is reasonable considering the vehicle’s weight and all-wheel-drive system. Expect some variation based on driving style and traffic congestion, with more aggressive acceleration significantly impacting fuel consumption. The 25 MPG highway rating is achievable during steady-state cruising, but maintaining that number requires effort to avoid excessive speeding and abrupt maneuvers. The six-speed automatic transmission performs predictably, but it may occasionally hunt for gears on hilly terrain, impacting efficiency. Note that those extra gears weren’t included with this engine; see updated EXPLORER MPG across all years to see what the newer 10-speed transmission can do.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Explorer AWD 2.3L at $2,100. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price at the time of the estimate. Individual fuel costs will fluctuate based on location, driving habits, and fuel prices. It’s a good benchmark, but your personal expenses may be higher, especially with frequent short trips or heavy reliance on city driving. While it provides a useful measure, consider current fuel prices in your region to assess the likely impact to your personal budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many drivers report averaging slightly below the combined 21 MPG rating, falling in the 19-20 MPG range during mixed driving. Factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and the use of accessories like air conditioning can influence fuel consumption. Drivers who primarily operate in urban environments or frequently tow loads will likely experience lower MPG numbers. Conversely, those who prioritize highway driving and practice fuel-efficient habits may achieve results closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA estimates. Consider that the weight of passengers and cargo impacts fuel economy; the more weight on board, the worst the fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2017 Explorer’s fuel economy places it in the middle of the pack compared to its competitors. For example, a 2017 Toyota Highlander AWD with its V6 engine returns an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined offering similar space and functionality. The Honda Pilot, another popular choice in this segment, achieves a slightly better 22 MPG combined with its AWD system. A Jeep Grand Cherokee V6 4×4 can achieve around 21 MPG combined, but it generally carries a higher price tag and prioritizes off-road prowess over sheer fuel efficiency. The Dodge Durango focuses on power over efficiency; it offers a V6 model, but its fuel economy is noticeably lower, at around 19 MPG combined with AWD. The Explorer’s 2.3L EcoBoost provides a reasonable balance of power and fuel economy, but those prioritizing maximum MPG might consider hybrid or diesel alternatives in other segments and from other manufacturers – see all Ford fuel economy data for more.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which lowers fuel economy. Regularly check your tire pressure, especially during temperature changes, and maintain the recommended PSI for optimal efficiency.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Rapid acceleration consumes significantly more fuel compared to gradual acceleration. Anticipate traffic flow and brake smoothly, minimizing the need for hard stops, because every time you must accelerate again you are wasting gas.

Reduce excess weight in the vehicle. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area and passenger compartment. Extra weight increases the engine’s workload, which reduces fuel economy. Empty the trunk of useless items, don’t use the roof racks unless necessary, and keep the Explorer as light as possible.

Use cruise control on the highway, when conditions allow. Maintaining a constant speed minimizes variations in engine load, resulting in better fuel economy. Cruise control can also reduce driver fatigue on long trips, meaning you’ll be more focused on driving efficiently.

Schedule regular maintenance and keep up with oil changes and tune-ups according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, delivering better fuel economy. Also, make sure to use the grade of gasoline recommended by Ford for the 2.3L EcoBoost engine.