Hey guys! Are you curious about the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid? You've come to the right place! This article dives deep into everything you need to know about this popular SUV, from its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior features and technology. We'll explore what makes the Explorer Limited Hybrid a compelling option for families and adventurers alike. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What Makes the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid Special?

The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid stands out in a crowded SUV market for several reasons. Primarily, it combines the practicality and spaciousness of a traditional SUV with the enhanced fuel economy of a hybrid powertrain. This means you can haul your family and gear without constantly worrying about gas prices. This is a huge win for budget-conscious buyers who still need the utility of a large vehicle. The Limited trim adds a touch of luxury and sophistication, making it a comfortable and enjoyable ride for both driver and passengers. Ford has packed this model with a range of features designed to enhance convenience, safety, and entertainment.

Think about it: you get the commanding presence and capabilities of an Explorer, but with significantly reduced fuel consumption compared to the standard gasoline-powered models. This is achieved through a combination of a traditional gasoline engine and an electric motor, working together seamlessly to provide power and efficiency. The hybrid system also offers regenerative braking, which helps to recharge the battery while you drive, further improving fuel economy. Beyond the hybrid powertrain, the Limited trim offers a host of premium features, such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies. These features elevate the overall driving experience and make the Explorer Limited Hybrid a truly desirable SUV.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency: Hybrid Power

Let's talk about what's under the hood. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid features a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor. This combination delivers a total system output of 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. This provides ample power for everyday driving, as well as confident acceleration and towing capability. The hybrid system works seamlessly, providing electric-only power at lower speeds and supplementing the gasoline engine when more power is needed. The result is a smooth and responsive driving experience.

But the real magic of the hybrid system is its fuel efficiency. The 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined. These numbers are significantly better than the standard gasoline-powered Explorer, which gets around 21 mpg combined. Over the course of a year, this difference in fuel economy can save you a considerable amount of money at the pump. The Explorer Limited Hybrid also offers different driving modes, allowing you to optimize performance for different conditions. For example, you can select an Eco mode to maximize fuel efficiency or a Sport mode to enhance acceleration and handling. The hybrid system also features regenerative braking, which captures energy during deceleration and uses it to recharge the battery. This further improves fuel economy and reduces wear on the brakes.

Interior Comfort and Technology: Limited Trim Luxuries

Stepping inside the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid, you'll immediately notice the upgraded interior. The Limited trim offers leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable steering column. These features provide a comfortable and luxurious driving experience, especially on long trips. The cabin is spacious and well-designed, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The second-row seats are also comfortable and offer ample legroom, even for taller adults. The third-row seats are best suited for children or smaller adults, but they provide valuable extra seating when needed.

In terms of technology, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is packed with features. It comes standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, which is easy to use and offers crisp graphics. The infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The Limited trim also includes a premium sound system, which delivers excellent audio quality. Other notable tech features include a wireless charging pad, a 360-degree camera system, and Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced safety technologies. These safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies work together to help you stay safe on the road and avoid accidents.

Safety Features: Protecting You and Your Family

Ford takes safety seriously, and the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. As mentioned earlier, it comes standard with Ford's Co-Pilot360, which includes a range of driver-assist technologies designed to enhance safety and prevent accidents. These features include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.
• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane.
• Blind-Spot Monitoring: Warns you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot.
• Automatic Emergency Braking: Can automatically apply the brakes to avoid or mitigate a collision.

In addition to these advanced safety technologies, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid also includes a number of standard safety features, such as antilock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The Explorer has also performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning high safety ratings. This gives you added peace of mind knowing that the Explorer is designed to protect you and your family in the event of a collision. The combination of advanced safety technologies and robust structural design makes the Explorer Limited Hybrid a safe and reliable choice for families.

Pros and Cons: Weighing Your Options

No vehicle is perfect, so let's take a look at the pros and cons of the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid. Here's a quick rundown:

Pros:

• Excellent Fuel Economy: Significantly better than the standard gasoline-powered Explorer.
• Spacious Interior: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
• Luxurious Features: The Limited trim offers a range of premium features.
• Advanced Safety Technologies: Equipped with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite.
• Strong Performance: The hybrid powertrain provides ample power for everyday driving.

Cons:

• Third-Row Seating: Best suited for children or smaller adults.
• Price: The Limited Hybrid trim is more expensive than the base Explorer.
• Some competitors offer more cargo space: Depending on your needs, you might find other SUVs with more cargo capacity.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a spacious SUV with excellent fuel economy, luxurious features, and advanced safety technologies, then the Explorer Limited Hybrid is definitely worth considering. However, if you need maximum cargo space or are on a tight budget, you might want to explore other options.

Is the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid Right for You?

So, is the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid the right SUV for you? Let's break it down. Consider this vehicle if:

• You prioritize fuel efficiency: If you're tired of high gas prices and want a spacious SUV that won't break the bank at the pump, the Explorer Limited Hybrid is a great choice.
• You need a comfortable and luxurious interior: The Limited trim offers a range of premium features that make the driving experience more enjoyable for both driver and passengers.
• You value safety: The Explorer Limited Hybrid is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features and has earned high safety ratings.
• You need a versatile vehicle: The Explorer Limited Hybrid can handle everyday errands, family road trips, and even light towing.

However, you might want to consider other options if:

• You need maximum cargo space: Some competitors offer more cargo capacity than the Explorer.
• You're on a tight budget: The Limited Hybrid trim is more expensive than the base Explorer.
• You frequently need to transport adults in the third row: The third-row seats are best suited for children or smaller adults.

Before making a final decision, it's always a good idea to take a test drive and compare the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid to other SUVs in its class. This will help you determine which vehicle best meets your needs and preferences.

Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Hybrid SUV

In conclusion, the 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling combination of fuel efficiency, spaciousness, luxury, and safety. It's a great option for families and adventurers who want a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of tasks. While it may not be the perfect SUV for everyone, it's definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a hybrid SUV. I hope this review has been helpful in your car-buying journey! Happy driving, everyone!