2022 Ford Explorer Limited: A Thorough Review

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2022 Ford Explorer Limited: Is It a Good Choice for You?

Hey car enthusiasts! Ever wondered if the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited is the right SUV for you? Well, you're in luck! We're diving deep into the features, performance, and overall value of this popular vehicle to help you decide. Let's get down to it, guys! This review will cover everything from the engine and interior to the tech and safety features. We'll explore the pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision. So, buckle up and let's explore if the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited is a good car. First, let's establish some basic facts about the vehicle. The Ford Explorer Limited is a mid-size SUV, known for its blend of practicality, comfort, and advanced features. It’s designed to cater to families and individuals who need ample space, good performance, and modern technology. The 2022 model, in particular, comes with several improvements and updates that make it a compelling choice in its segment. It competes with other popular SUVs like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Chevrolet Traverse. Understanding the Explorer Limited's place in the market is crucial to evaluating its worth. Now, let’s dig into the details and help you decide if it’s the right ride for you.

Performance and Engine Options

Alright, let’s talk about what's under the hood! The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited offers a couple of engine choices, depending on your needs. The standard engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder. This engine is turbocharged and delivers a solid 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, which helps optimize both performance and fuel efficiency. This engine is more than capable of handling daily driving, including city commutes and highway cruising. For those seeking more power, the Explorer Limited has a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, which cranks out a hefty 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides brisk acceleration, making passing and merging on the highway a breeze. It also comes with the 10-speed automatic transmission. The V6 engine is particularly appealing if you frequently carry passengers, tow heavy loads, or simply crave a more spirited driving experience. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited comes with either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). The RWD configuration provides better fuel economy and is ideal for those living in areas with mild weather conditions. AWD, on the other hand, is excellent for enhancing traction and stability in slippery conditions like snow or rain. Both engine options offer a good balance of power and efficiency. Fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain. The 2.3-liter engine with RWD typically achieves around 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The V6 engine, naturally, has slightly lower fuel economy numbers, with about 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Towing capacity is another key factor to consider. The 2.3-liter engine is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This is more than sufficient for most recreational towing needs, such as small trailers, boats, or ATVs. The V6 engine, when equipped with the available towing package, can tow up to 5,600 pounds. This makes the Explorer Limited a capable choice for those who frequently need to tow heavier items. Performance-wise, the Explorer Limited offers a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth experience for passengers. The steering is responsive, making the SUV easy to maneuver in various driving conditions. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited delivers a well-rounded performance package that caters to a wide range of drivers. The choice between the four-cylinder and the V6 engine, along with RWD or AWD, allows you to customize the vehicle to your specific needs and preferences.

Interior Comfort and Features

Let’s step inside and explore what the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited has to offer in terms of comfort and features. The interior is designed to provide a comfortable and functional space for both the driver and passengers. The seats are typically upholstered in leather, offering a premium feel. Front seats are heated and power-adjustable, including lumbar support. This is a game-changer on long drives! The second-row seats also offer plenty of space, with available heating to keep passengers cozy. The third-row seats, while smaller, are suitable for children or occasional use by adults. Interior design focuses on ergonomics, with controls and features conveniently placed. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with a large touchscreen infotainment system as the centerpiece. Soft-touch materials are used throughout the cabin, enhancing the overall feeling of quality. Space and storage are areas where the Explorer Limited excels. There's plenty of legroom and headroom in the first and second rows. The third row, though smaller, still provides adequate space for shorter trips. The cargo area is spacious, offering ample room for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The second and third rows fold down easily, creating a flat load floor for carrying larger items. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited is packed with features designed to enhance the driving experience and passenger comfort. Key features include:

  • Infotainment System: A large touchscreen display with Ford’s SYNC system, offering intuitive controls for navigation, audio, and vehicle settings.
  • Connectivity: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity.
  • Premium Sound System: An available premium sound system to enhance your listening experience.
  • Climate Control: Tri-zone automatic climate control, allowing front and rear passengers to set their preferred temperatures.
  • Power Liftgate: A power liftgate for easy access to the cargo area.
  • Panoramic Sunroof: An available panoramic sunroof to bring natural light into the cabin and enhance the overall driving experience.

The quality of the interior materials is generally good, with a mix of soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics. The fit and finish are well-executed, contributing to a sense of quality. Overall, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited provides a comfortable and well-appointed interior that caters to the needs of families and individuals alike. The combination of space, features, and quality materials makes it a pleasant place to spend time, whether it's a daily commute or a long road trip.

Technology and Safety Features

Time to geek out! The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited is loaded with technology and safety features. Let's start with the infotainment system. The central hub is a large touchscreen display that houses Ford’s SYNC system. This system is easy to use, with intuitive menus and responsive touch controls. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of your smartphone. This means you can access your favorite apps, make calls, and navigate using your phone's interface directly on the vehicle's screen. The Explorer Limited also includes a Wi-Fi hotspot, keeping you and your passengers connected on the go. This is super helpful for streaming, browsing, or working while traveling. Now, for the safety features. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited is equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies. This suite includes:

  • Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking: This system can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if necessary.
  • Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: This feature alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots and warns you of approaching traffic when reversing.
  • Lane-Keeping System: Helps you stay in your lane by providing steering assistance if you drift out of it.
  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go: Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front, adjusting speed automatically in traffic.
  • Evasive Steering Assist: Helps you steer around obstacles in emergency situations.

Additional safety features that come standard or are available include a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and a perimeter alarm system. The Explorer Limited also boasts a high safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings reflect the vehicle’s ability to protect occupants in the event of a crash. The integration of technology in the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited is well-executed, enhancing both the driving experience and passenger safety. From the intuitive infotainment system to the comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, this SUV keeps you connected, informed, and secure on the road. The advanced safety technologies significantly reduce the risk of accidents and help protect you and your passengers. It’s comforting to know that this vehicle is equipped with modern features to enhance your safety.

Pros and Cons

Okay, guys, let’s wrap this up with a quick look at the pros and cons of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited.

Pros:

  • Spacious Interior: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
  • Powerful Engine Options: Offers a choice of engines to suit different driving needs.
  • Advanced Technology: Equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system and a suite of driver-assistance features.
  • Comfortable Ride: Provides a smooth and composed driving experience.
  • Stylish Design: Features a modern and attractive exterior and interior design.

Cons:

  • Fuel Economy: Some engine options may have lower fuel economy compared to competitors.
  • Third-Row Space: The third-row seating can be a bit tight for adults.
  • Price: The Limited trim can be pricier compared to base models or some competitors.
  • Infotainment Glitches: Some users have reported occasional glitches with the infotainment system.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited a Good Car?

So, is the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited a good car? Absolutely! It’s a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and technology. It’s perfect for families and individuals who need a versatile vehicle that can handle daily commutes, road trips, and various activities. The spacious interior, powerful engine options, and advanced technology make it a standout choice in its segment. It does have some drawbacks, such as the third-row space and the potential for lower fuel economy with some engine choices, but the positives generally outweigh the negatives. If you're looking for a mid-size SUV that can do it all, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited is definitely worth considering. Thanks for hanging out with me. I hope this helps you make an informed decision! Drive safely, and happy car hunting!