Ford first introduced a hybrid version of the popular three-row Explorer SUV when it was redesigned in 2020. Since the Explorer Hybrid is so new, not much has changed for 2022.

All Explorer Hybrids come with a 3.3-liter V6 engine, which combines with the electric motor, battery, and 10-speed automatic to make 318 system horsepower and 322 pound-feet of torque. Ford lets you choose between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). Properly equipped with the Class III Tow Package, the Explorer will pull as much as 5,000 lbs. Fuel economy measures 27 mpg city, 28 highway, and 27 combined with RWD, and 23 city, 26 highway, and 25 combined with AWD.

Of the myriad Explorer trims, the hybrid is offered in just two: Limited and Platinum. The Limited comes standard with LED exterior lighting, power-folding and heated exterior mirrors, acoustic glass, chrome exterior appointments, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, keyless access and start, a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, a hands-free power liftgate, third-row seating, and an 8-inch touchscreen audio system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Platinum comes with adaptive headlights, tri-zone automatic climate control, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and upgraded leather with diamond stitching. Other options include second-row bucket seats with or without a center console, power-folding third-row seats, an upgraded Bang & Olufsen sound system with 14 speakers and 960 watts, multi-contour front seats with a massage feature, and a 10.1-inch vertical touchscreen.

Every Explorer Hybrid comes with the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ system. It comprises forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, evasive steering assist, adaptive cruise control, active parking assist, and auto high beams. While the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has inexplicably not tested the Explorer family in the last decade, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ designation.