24 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling competitions, but for the 2023 Ford Explorer RWD with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine, it’s a reasonable compromise. This isn’t a hybrid; it’s a sizable, three-row SUV designed to haul families and their gear. The fuel economy reflects that, prioritizing capability and space over outright frugality. Buyers who choose this particular Explorer configuration understand this trade-off and value its blend of practicality and relative efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway show where the 2023 Ford Explorer RWD 2.3L performs best. Around town, the turbocharged four-cylinder works harder, resulting in the lower 21 MPG figure. Stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration increase fuel consumption. However, on the open road, things improve significantly. The 28 MPG highway rating shows the effectiveness of the 10-speed automatic transmission in keeping the engine at its optimal speed at cruising speeds. Drivers who frequently take longer journeys will likely find the highway fuel economy more representative of their actual experience.

Annual Fuel Cost

The EPA calculates an annual fuel cost of $1,800 for this Explorer configuration. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing running costs with other vehicles, but individual spending will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices. Aggressive driving or living in an area with higher fuel costs will increase this expense, while a more conservative driving style and access to cheaper gas can lower it.

Real-World Expectations

While the EPA estimates are a helpful starting point, they rarely perfectly match real-world results. Expect some variation based on driving style, road conditions, and even the weather. Heavy acceleration, frequent hard braking, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel economy. Keeping tires properly inflated and following the vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule can help maintain optimal efficiency. Many owners can achieve the EPA’s combined figure with mindful driving, and some even exceed the highway rating on long trips.

How It Compares

The 2023 Ford Explorer with the 2.3L EcoBoost and RWD is in a competitive segment, and its fuel economy is comparable to its rivals. A Toyota Highlander with its standard V6 engine achieves around 24 MPG combined, similar to the Explorer but without turbocharging, though the Highlander Hybrid significantly outperforms with its impressive 36 MPG combined. The Honda Pilot, another strong competitor, typically returns around 22 MPG combined in its non-hybrid form. A Kia Telluride, known for its space and features, lands around 23 MPG combined. The Explorer’s fuel economy is in the middle of this pack. The Chrysler Pacifica minivan, often considered as an alternative to three-row SUVs, gets around 22 MPG combined with its V6 engine, showing the Explorer’s respectable standing in this class. When viewing all Ford fuel economy data, remember that the Explorer offers more cargo space than many competitors, which makes it appealing for family-oriented buyers. Don’t forget to also check the EXPLORER MPG across all years for a broader view.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

The 2.3L EcoBoost engine responds well to a gentle touch. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The Explorer’s 10-speed automatic transmission is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient range, so let it do its job without unnecessary large changes in throttle position.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo impacts fuel economy, particularly in urban environments. Remove items from the vehicle that are not essential for your daily commute or planned trips. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to accelerate and maintain speed, improving MPG.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended inflation level found on the doorjamb sticker. Properly inflated tires not only improve fuel economy but also extend tire life.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel, especially with a turbocharged engine. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine, assuming it is safe and legal to do so. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, minimizing any potential inconvenience.