The EPA rates the 2022 Ford Explorer with rear-wheel drive and the turbo 3.0-liter V6 at 20 MPG combined. This figure highlights this SUV’s mix of performance and practicality. It’s a compromise many Explorer buyers willingly accept. This isn’t a hybrid striving for maximum efficiency; it delivers strong power and confident towing that family-oriented buyers want.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 2022 Ford Explorer RWD with the 3.0L V6 achieves 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city rating reflects the engine’s power while navigating stop-and-go traffic, where its ample torque helps with quick acceleration. The 25 MPG highway figure is reasonably efficient for a vehicle of this size and capability, allowing for comfortable long-distance cruising without needing to stop for fuel often. Of course, highway MPG drops significantly with a fully loaded vehicle. Explorer buyers often prioritize space for passengers and cargo over squeezing out every last mile per gallon. Therefore, the highway number becomes more understandable.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Ford Explorer RWD 3.0L at $2,200. This assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a mix of city and highway conditions, at the prevailing national average for gasoline prices. Remember that fluctuating fuel prices will directly impact this cost, and your personal driving habits may cause you to spend more or less than the EPA estimate. A driver who primarily uses the Explorer for short commutes in heavy traffic will likely exceed that $2,200. A driver who racks up mostly highway miles could potentially spend less. The $2,200 figure provides a useful benchmark for budgeting and comparing with other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing results, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, terrain, and vehicle load all play a role. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and consistently exceeding the speed limit will negatively impact fuel efficiency. Properly maintaining the vehicle, including tire inflation and regular servicing, is also critical for achieving optimal MPG. Expect Explorer MPG across all years will show a range, and your experience will likely fall somewhere within that spectrum.

How it compares

The Explorer’s V6 fuel economy positions it competitively within its class. A Toyota Highlander V6, for example, achieves an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. This gives it an edge over the Explorer. However, the Explorer’s V6 boasts significantly more power than the Highlander’s. Many buyers are willing to trade a few MPG for this difference. Similarly, the Honda Pilot offers around 22 MPG combined. The Ford Explorer stands out by offering a sporty, powerful V6 experience in a segment often characterized by prioritizing only functionality and efficiency. For drivers who prioritize raw power and trailer-towing confidence, the Explorer’s fuel economy is an acceptable trade-off.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Explorer’s turbo V6 delivers ample power, but using it unnecessarily will quickly diminish fuel economy. Gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic conditions can significantly improve your MPG.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI, which is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to lower MPG. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The Explorer has a relatively large engine, so idling burns a disproportionate amount of fuel.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo in the vehicle puts extra strain on the engine, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from the Explorer to minimize weight and improve MPG. Those third-row seats, when unoccupied, add weight. Fold them down when possible.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes fluctuations in engine load and helps optimize fuel consumption. Whenever safe and appropriate, engage cruise control on long highway drives to maintain a steady pace. Consider exploring all Ford fuel economy data to further understand the brand’s overall efficiency offerings.