2022 Ford Explorer

The Explorer has four primary trim levels, and the first doesn't even have a special name. Still, the baseline Explorer has plenty of exterior features to offer, such as its sleek design and black door handles. Upgrade to the XLT, and the exterior gets more chrome with body-color door handles. Additionally, the XLT offers LED headlights.

If you opt for the Limited trim, you can enjoy more luxurious features, such as 20-inch wheels and satin roof-rack side rails. The mesh grille is also painted silver with chrome bars. Even the dual exhaust tips are chrome. At the top of the trim levels, you'll find the Platinum, which features 21-inch wheels and unique satin aluminum exterior accents.

Under the hood of the Explorer, you can find one of three different engines. The base engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 that offers 300 horsepower and 310 pound feet of torque. This is the standard engine on every trim except for the Platinum. If that's not enough power for you, you may want to consider the 3-liter EcoBoost V-6. This powerhouse, which is standard on the Platinum, boasts 400 horsepower and 415 pound feet of torque. The final engine is a 3.3-liter V-6 hybrid that conserves gas while still sporting 318 horsepower and 322 pound feet of torque.

The performance features on the Explorer include state-of-the-art offerings such as side-wind stabilization, which keeps you in control even under high wind conditions. Plus, you can opt for a Terrain Management System that makes your SUV excel at off-road adventures with numerous drive modes. Some of the available modes include trail, deep snow, slippery, and even a tow/haul mode among others.

Inside the Explorer, you'll find a welcoming interior with plenty of space for up to seven passengers. Even the third row is easy to get to, thanks to a single button that will move the second-row seat forward for convenient access. The infotainment system is state-of-the-art as well and includes an 8-inch touchscreen that comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto alongside Wi-Fi hot spot capabilities.

Safety features are especially important in a family SUV, but you can drive with peace of mind no matter what kind of adventure you plan to take with your Explorer. Numerous driver assistance technologies come standard, such as forward collision warning with automated emergency braking and blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Even lane departure warning and lane keeping assist are standard on all models.