Used 2022 Ford Explorer for Sale near Washington

Compare 2022 Ford Explorer Trims

The 2022 Ford Explorer offers a range of trims from budget-friendly options to fully loaded models, catering to various needs and preferences.

• Starting at $18,694
• Best MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 28 hwy
• Most Popular: XLT AWD

Trim Overview

Prices updated weekly from CarGurus listings.

Quick Compare Table

Listing prices sourced from CarGurus — updated weekly. OEM specs from manufacturer data.

Missing data displayed as "—".

Trim Deep Dives

Police Interceptor Utility AWD — "Who It's For"

The Police Interceptor Utility AWD is the pick for shoppers who want a robust vehicle without paying for luxury features. It's the most budget-friendly option in the lineup.

• Avg. market price: $18,694 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 11 city / 15 hwy
• Inventory: 687 listings
• View Police Interceptor Utility AWD listings

XLT RWD — "Who It's For"

The XLT RWD is the pick for shoppers who want a well-equipped SUV without the AWD price premium. It offers a solid mix of features and comfort.

• Avg. market price: $22,486 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 28 hwy
• Inventory: 1,823 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View XLT RWD listings

XLT AWD — "Who It's For"

The XLT AWD is the pick for shoppers who want all-wheel drive without stepping up to a higher price point. It's also the most popular trim in the lineup.

• Avg. market price: $25,314 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 26 hwy
• Inventory: 7,584 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View XLT AWD listings

ST-Line AWD — "Who It's For"

The ST-Line AWD is the pick for shoppers who want a sporty look and feel without the full performance price tag. It balances style and capability well.

• Avg. market price: $28,728 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 26 hwy
• Inventory: 1,673 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View ST-Line AWD listings

Timberline AWD — "Who It's For"

The Timberline AWD is the pick for shoppers who want off-road capability with premium features. It’s designed for adventure seekers.

• Avg. market price: $29,087 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 19 city / 21 hwy
• Inventory: 644 listings
• View Timberline AWD listings

Limited AWD — "Who It's For"

The Limited AWD is the pick for shoppers who want luxury features without going for the top-tier trim. It offers a great balance of comfort and capability.

• Avg. market price: $27,993 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 26 hwy
• Inventory: 1,888 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View Limited AWD listings

ST AWD — "Who It's For"

The ST AWD is the pick for shoppers who want high performance and advanced features. It’s perfect for those who prioritize power and technology.

• Avg. market price: $33,305 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 18 city / 24 hwy
• Inventory: 2,908 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View ST AWD listings

Platinum AWD — "Who It's For"

The Platinum AWD is the pick for shoppers who want the ultimate luxury experience in an SUV. It combines top-tier features with a refined design.

• Avg. market price: $31,507 (updated weekly)
• Inventory: 1,684 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View Platinum AWD listings

Trim Recommendations

Most Popular — XLT AWD

With 7,584 active listings, the XLT AWD is the clear volume leader in the lineup.

Browse XLT AWD listings

Best Budget Option — Police Interceptor Utility AWD

At $18,694 avg market price — below the lineup median of $28,360 — it's the most accessible entry point.

Browse Police Interceptor Utility AWD listings

Best for Fuel Economy — XLT RWD

The XLT RWD offers the best fuel efficiency in the lineup with 20/28 MPG.

Browse XLT RWD listings

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 29, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.

How much does the 2022 Ford Explorer cost?

Prices have softened 12.19% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 9,829 listings available, which suggests you should have room to compare prices and equipment.

Is the 2022 Ford Explorer a good car?

Yes — the 2022 Ford Explorer earns a 4.9/5 user rating and a 7.5/10 expert rating. The standout strength is Safety at 10/10.

Owners consistently praise its comfort, performance, and practicality, along with the spacious interior and cargo capacity that make it appealing for families. The safety features and driving experience also come up as recurring positives.

The trade-offs are familiar: the third row is cramped, the infotainment technology feels outdated, and the value equation is not especially strong. That makes it a better fit if you want a versatile three-row SUV with broad configuration choices rather than the most modern cabin in the class.

The Explorer’s wide trim spread helps you tailor it to your budget and priorities, from value-focused models to luxury-oriented versions. Good and great deals account for 34.7% of listings, which gives you some shopping leverage.

Is the 2022 Ford Explorer reliable?

Owners rate it 4.9/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.

The owner feedback also points to a dependable, trouble-free ownership experience, with praise for comfort, practicality, and the kind of family-friendly usability that tends to matter over time. The expert review also describes the Explorer as a broad-appeal SUV with a robust feel and a powertrain lineup that gives you flexibility.

Ford’s cost-effectiveness notes also point out that lower trims can be well equipped, which can help you avoid overpaying for features you may not need. For used buyers, the main long-term risk is choosing a poorly maintained example with expensive wear items or neglected electronics.

What should I look for when buying a used 2022 Ford Explorer?

Accident-free inventory is solid at 84.7% — always verify the vehicle history report.

You should still run a history report on any candidate, even if it looks clean on paper. Prioritize a pre-purchase inspection that checks the drivetrain, electronics, and any driver-assistance features you plan to rely on. Focus on overall condition and how well the vehicle’s equipment works, not just mileage or trim level.

Key things to evaluate:

• Trim level: The lineup spans from a value-oriented base model to a luxurious Platinum trim level, and the King Ranch adds exclusive leather and distinctive interior treatment. The base trim can leave you wanting if you expect a more upscale cabin.
• Powertrain: You can choose among a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder, a hybrid setup, and a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. The hybrid is the best blend of power, efficiency, and capability, while the V6 brings the most power and towing ability.
• Safety package: Ford Co-Pilot360 is standard and includes forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ adds adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane-centering assist, and evasive steering assist.
• Infotainment: The Explorer uses Sync 3 with either an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The larger screen is portrait-oriented, and the system supports FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a surround-view camera system on higher trims.
• Fuel efficiency: The turbocharged 2.3-liter engine returns up to 24 mpg in combined driving, the hybrid returns as much as 27 mpg in combined driving, and the twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 is rated at up to 21 mpg in combined driving.

Which 2022 Ford Explorer trim should I buy?

The 2022 Ford Explorer is offered in 8 trim levels: Base, XLT, ST-Line, Limited, Timberline, ST, Platinum, and King Ranch.

Here's the short version:

• Base: This is the entry point, and it gives you the Explorer’s core three-row layout and standard safety equipment. It makes sense if you want the lowest-cost way into the lineup, but it is also the trim most likely to feel stripped compared with the richer versions.
• XLT: This is the first step up and a better everyday choice if you want a more balanced mix of value and equipment. It sits in the sweet spot for shoppers who want more comfort and flexibility without jumping to the pricier luxury trims.
• ST-Line: This trim adds a sportier look to the XLT formula. It is a good fit if you want appearance upgrades and a more expressive vibe without moving into the performance-focused ST.
• Limited: This is the trim to target if you want a more upscale feel and access to the hybrid powertrain. It is the best-value choice for many shoppers because it opens the door to the Explorer’s more efficient setup.
• Timberline: This is the more rugged choice, with improved off-road-oriented capability and extra ground clearance. It suits you if you want the Explorer’s family-hauling practicality with more confidence on rougher terrain.
• ST: This is the performance-oriented trim, and it is the right pick if you care most about acceleration and a more engaging drive. It is the Explorer for buyers who want the strongest on-road character.
• Platinum: This is the luxury-leaning trim, and it is the best choice if you want the most upscale equipment and presentation. It also pairs well with buyers who want the Explorer’s premium side without the King Ranch’s distinctive styling.
• King Ranch: This is the most distinctive luxury trim, with exclusive Del Rio leather and a more specialized cabin treatment. Choose it if you want the most character-rich interior and do not mind the bold brown-and-caramel theme.

Ford Co-Pilot360 is standard across the lineup, while Co-Pilot360 Assist+ adds adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and evasive steering assist.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2022 Ford Explorer?

This is a moderate buyer’s market, so you can shop selectively and still find worthwhile options.

• Deal availability: 34.7% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 9,829 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 12.19% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 84.7% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $27,010, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2022 Ford Explorer's resale value?

The current average of $27,010 sits slightly below last year's $30,760.

That decline suggests the market has already adjusted downward, which can help you as a buyer but may limit upside if you plan to resell soon. If you buy at the right price, you reduce the risk of taking a bigger depreciation hit later.

The Explorer’s broad appeal and strong owner satisfaction can help support demand when you eventually sell. Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.9/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Is the 2022 Ford Explorer safe?

The 2022 Ford Explorer earns a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.

It earns a 10/10 safety score from our experts.

Ford Co-Pilot360 is standard and includes forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ adds adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane-centering assist, and evasive steering assist.

A caveat is that complete NHTSA crash-test ratings were not published for this model year in the provided data.

Should I buy a 2022 Ford Explorer or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2022 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2022 if:

• 34.7% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Accident-free inventory is solid at 84.7% — always verify the vehicle history report.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 12.19% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.9/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.
• The 2022 adds ST-Line, Timberline, and King Ranch trims while broadening the lineup’s appeal.

Consider the 2021 if:

• At $23,104, the 2021 costs less than the current year's $27,010 average.
• It offers multiple powertrain options and a spacious third row.

The bottom line: Choose the 2022 if you want the broader trim mix and stronger current-market shopping conditions. If your priority is saving money upfront, the 2021 is the better value play, especially if you can find one in good condition with the equipment you want.

How does the 2022 Ford Explorer compare to the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse?

Expert Pros & Cons (per CarGurus review team)

2022 Ford Explorer:

• Pros: Multiple powertrain options, Plenty of cargo space, Great safety ratings.
• Cons: Cramped third row, Outdated infotainment technology, Unimpressive value equation.

2022 Chevrolet Traverse:

• Pros: Stylish design, Plenty of cargo space, Easy-to-use technology.
• Cons: Noisy, Excessive "float" on uneven pavement, Interior materials feel cheap.

Our experts score the 2022 Ford Explorer 7.5/10 and the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse 7.2/10. The Explorer has the edge on safety and powertrain variety, while the Traverse counters with easier technology and a lower average used price. If you care most about safety ratings and configuration flexibility, the Explorer is the stronger pick; if you want a more affordable alternative with straightforward tech, the Traverse is worth a look.

Read our full side-by-side expert comparison here.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from November 3, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.