The 2021 Ford Explorer Hybrid brings a fuel-efficient powertrain to the versatile and accommodating Explorer platform. The Explorer Hybrid was introduced for the 2020 model year—the same year the current generation of conventionally-powered Explorer made its debut. Like other Explorer models, the hybrid carries into 2021 with only minor changes.

The Explorer boasts three rows, with seating for up to six, as the second row features individual captain’s chairs. With the third-row seats in place, 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space is available. With the third row folded, there’s up to 47.9 cubic feet. When all seats are folded, the Explorer Hybrid offers 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space. A hands-free power liftgate comes as standard equipment.

The hybrid equation starts with a 3.3-liter V6 and adds an electric motor, putting out a combined 318 horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels or available four-wheel drive (4WD) through a 10-speed automatic transmission. With rear-wheel drive (RWD), this setup returns fuel economy of 27 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined. When equipped with 4WD, the Explorer Hybrid returns 23 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined.

The Explorer Hybrid is offered exclusively in the upscale Limited trim level. Standard features include remote keyless entry, remote start, three-zone climate control, leather upholstery, heated-and-ventilated front seats, and wireless device charging. It also comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen that runs the intuitive SYNC 3 infotainment system, with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Ford also provides the Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assistance features as standard equipment. This includes automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. The Explorer Hybrid also comes standard with blind-spot monitoring, front-and-rear parking sensors, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree parking camera system.

The 2021 Ford Explorer Hybrid starts at $49,855 in its lone Limited trim. It’s backed by a three-year/36,000-mile powertrain warranty. Hybrid components are backed by an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty.