The 2024 Ford Explorer RWD with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 gets 20 MPG combined. This isn’t Prius territory. Ford isn’t trying to fool anyone; this Explorer configuration is for a specific buyer seeking strong performance and generous towing capacity in a spacious, three-row SUV. Fuel efficiency is a secondary concern, a trade-off accepted for the power and capability this drivetrain delivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates peg the 2024 Explorer RWD 3.0L at 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s need to work harder in stop-and-go traffic, while the highway number demonstrates its relative efficiency when cruising at a consistent speed. The 10-speed automatic transmission plays an important role here, keeping the engine in its optimal rev range. However, aggressive driving or frequent heavy acceleration will quickly erode these numbers. This Explorer’s weight and the powerful V6 under the hood mean it’s not designed for feather-footed driving, although that isn’t really the intention of most buyers for this trim.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,200 for this particular Explorer configuration. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may vary significantly depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the amount of city versus highway driving you do. Someone who primarily drives short distances in a city with high fuel prices will likely exceed this estimate, while someone who primarily takes long highway trips at lower speeds might come in under it.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world MPG often differs. Expect the 20 MPG combined figure to fluctuate based on your driving style and conditions. Consistently heavy acceleration, carrying passengers or cargo, or frequent use of features like air conditioning will negatively impact fuel economy. On the other hand, driving conservatively on the highway and minimizing idling can improve your MPG. If you are looking for better numbers, check out EXPLORER MPG across all years to see if a different engine or drivetrain makes sense for your needs.

How it compares

The Explorer’s fuel economy needs to be viewed in context. Competitors like the Toyota Highlander with its V6 engine achieve around 24 MPG combined, a noticeable improvement. The Honda Pilot, another popular three-row SUV, typically gets 22 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. Even the Kia Telluride, known for its value, lands around 21 MPG combined. The Explorer’s lower MPG figure underscores its focus on performance. Buyers choosing this Explorer aren’t prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else. They value the 400 horsepower and reliable towing capacity that come with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and RWD setup. These buyers might also consider the Ford Expedition, which makes even less of an effort toward fuel economy, but offers significantly more space. See all Ford fuel economy data for more about Ford’s choices.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 3.0L EcoBoost engine delivers plenty of power when you need it, but using that power unnecessarily will drain fuel quickly. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. Also, be careful when accelerating from a stoplight.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, which you can find on the driver’s side door jamb or in the owner’s manual.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and the fuel saved by avoiding prolonged idling can add up over time.

Reduce excess weight. Carrying unnecessary cargo adds weight to the vehicle, increasing the engine’s workload and reducing fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk or cargo area. Even small weight reductions can make a difference over time.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy, especially on long highway trips. Avoid frequent acceleration and deceleration, which can waste fuel. Set the cruise control and let the vehicle maintain a steady pace.