The forthcoming 2022 Ford Explorer is ready for further upgrades. This SUV is one of Ford’s best-selling vehicles in the past couple of years. Blue Oval wants to dominate the market with the new Explorer, and the latest changes will help this SUV to achieve that. The sixth-gen Explorer arrived in 2020, and this SUV switched from front to rear-wheel-drive architecture.
With the new setup, Explorer gained a wider stance and better off-road capability. Moreover, the interior now provides more space. As for the 2022 Explorer, this model will arrive with mid-cycle refreshments. The price won’t significantly change, and the new model will arrive at some point next year.
2022 Explorer Gets Mid-Cycle Facelift
The exterior of the 2022 Ford Explorer won’t suffer a complete redesign. The latest rumors about the complete revamp are false. Instead, Blue Oval automaker will deliver a mid-cycle facelift. According to Ford, it is an evolution of the current model, and the latest upgrades are making perfect sense. The front part comes with a new grille shape, and lights are reshaped as well.
The front overhangs are shorter, so the new Explorer will get slightly more ground clearance and better approach angle. The side profile will host subtle changes, and the tapering roofline is the easiest one to spot. The bodywork looks as impressive as before, and the rear section will host revised taillights and slightly bolder bumper.
Interior Upgrades
The changes inside the cabin are more notable. The 2022 Ford Explorer will benefit from multi-contour seats, a new dash design, and slightly more space for the front passengers. According to Ford, Explorer will offer the best-in-class legroom. The cargo capacity is rated at 87.8 cubic feet of space, which is great. Upper trim levels will get heated massaging front seats and tri-zone automatic climate control.
Moreover, we’d recommend an optional panoramic roof that is bigger than ever before. SYNC3 infotainment system will be updated, and Ford will offer the same 8-inch touchscreen. However, a 10.1-inch unit is optional, along with a premium B&O sound system. The technology inside the cabin is impressive, and Ford will surely introduce the newest driver-assistance aids.
Engine Specs and Explorer Hybrid
Under the hood, the new 2022 Ford Explorer should not introduce any type of changes. A 2.3-liter turbo-four engine remains standard, and it delivers 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. As you probably heard, a 3.5-liter V6 is no longer available. The standard engine option is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. As we said, the rear-wheel-drive system remains standard, while the all-wheel-drive setup is optional once again.
If you are looking for more power, a 3.0-liter twin-turbo is optional, and it provides 365 horses and 380 lb-ft of torque. This engine also powers the ST variant. Lastly, the Explorer Hybrid variant is available. It combines a 3.3-liter V6 with an electric motor for a combined 318 horsepower. At this point, the hybrid model delivers 28 mpg combined. By 2022, Explorer Hybrid should improve in every category.
2022 Ford Explorer Release Date and Price
The price of the upcoming 2022 Ford Explorer will start at $35,000 or slightly below that. The offer will include trim levels such as XLT, Limited, Limited Hybrid, and Platinum. Moreover, the Explorer ST variant will also become available. The sales will begin in the second half of 2021.