25 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling competitions, but in the 2022 Ford Explorer HEV AWD, it’s a practical compromise. This is a three-row SUV with genuine utility, space for seven, and all-wheel drive for year-round confidence. Fuel efficiency is a bonus.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 Explorer HEV AWD are 23 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. These figures show the advantage of the hybrid powertrain in stop-and-go traffic, where regenerative braking captures energy that would otherwise be lost. The electric motor provides a boost during acceleration, reducing the reliance on the gasoline engine and improving efficiency. On the highway, the Explorer HEV still benefits from its hybrid system, but the difference is less obvious as the gasoline engine becomes the primary power source.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Ford Explorer HEV AWD is $1,750. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs highway) and gasoline prices in your area. However, the $1,750 figure provides a standardized baseline for comparison.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates offer a useful comparison point, drivers should understand that real-world fuel economy can vary. Factors such as driving style, terrain, weather conditions, and cargo weight can all impact MPG. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will reduce efficiency, while smooth, steady driving will maximize it. You can expect to see MPG figures that fluctuate around the EPA estimates, depending on your specific circumstances. Those who drive primarily on the highway may see figures closer to 26 MPG, while those who are always in stop-and-go city traffic may see numbers closer to 23 MPG.

How it compares

The Explorer HEV occupies a unique space in the mid-size SUV market. Compared to the non-hybrid Explorer with its EcoBoost engines, the HEV offers a clear MPG improvement, especially in city driving. For example, the standard 2.3L EcoBoost AWD Explorer gets around 20 MPG combined. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid, a key competitor, achieves around 35 MPG combined in its front-wheel drive configuration, but the all-wheel drive version drops slightly below 35. The Kia Sorento Hybrid AWD delivers around 37 MPG combined. While the Toyota and Kia hybrids offer superior fuel economy, they may not match the Explorer’s towing capacity or interior space, features that are important to many Explorer buyers. For those prioritizing fuel economy above all else, the Ford Escape Hybrid AWD, with its 40 MPG combined, is another in-house alternative, but it’s considerably smaller than the Explorer. To compare all Ford fuel economy data, see our brand page. You can also narrow down the results and compare EXPLORER MPG across all years of the Ford SUV.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Explorer HEV’s regenerative braking system. Anticipate stops and decelerate gradually, allowing the system to capture as much energy as possible. Avoid hard braking whenever possible.

Use the Explorer’s Eco driving mode when appropriate. This mode optimizes the powertrain for fuel efficiency, but it may reduce throttle response and acceleration. Eco mode is most effective in city driving and on relatively flat terrain.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo increases the vehicle’s overall weight, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your Explorer to lighten the load.

Plan your routes carefully. Avoid congested areas and routes with frequent stop-and-go traffic whenever possible. Choosing routes with fewer hills, fewer stops and starts, and more consistent speeds can improve fuel economy.