The Ford Explorer Hybrid Is Way Better Than You Think
The Ford Explorer Hybrid provides a fuel-efficient option with three rows of seats for your entire family to enjoy. But is the Ford Explorer a good hybrid to choose? It actually has a few features that put it behind the pack.
The Ford Explorer Hybrid
The Ford Explorer Hybrid begins around $32k, making it an attractive price-friendly option for larger families.
However, this is seen as a high price for a hybrid vehicle. People compared it to the RAV4 Hybrid, which starts around $28k but doesn’t have a third row of seats.
Also, the Explorer provides real savings at the fuel pumps. As the most powerful Ford Explorer ever, the hybrid option provides up to a 500-mile range between fill-ups.
It has an 18-gallon tank and gets 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, which is considered low for its class. Other hybrid options like the Toyota Highlander get up to 36 mpg in the city.
Ford Explorer Hybrid Performance
Under the hood of the Ford Explorer Hybrid, you’ll find a 3.3-liter V6 engine that is paired with an electric motor to provide 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
The Ford Explorer Hybrid can tow up to 5,000 lb when equipped with the $710 optional towing package. So, there is no shortage of power for taking your boat to the lake.
However, we wished the Ford Explorer had a bit more pep. It takes 7.3 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mpg.
On a positive note, the Ford Explorer Hybrid is extremely capable. It is available in an all-wheel-drive and four-wheel drive to meet your needs. It’s also available in rear-wheel drive for a sportier experience.
Use the Terrain Management System to adapt to the changing road conditions with the twist of a dial.
There are driving modes for slippery conditions, mud, deep sand, tow, haul, and more.
The intelligent 4WD system also automatically adjusted engine power and torque to efficiently deliver the perfect amount of traction for various driving conditions.
Ford Explorer Hybrid Options
The Ford Explorer Hybrid is criticized for having an interior that isn’t as nice or as comfortable as its rivals.
However, it’s pretty spacious. It has 18.3 cubic square feet of cargo space behind the third row of seats. Also, you can access up to 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space total.
The 10.1″ LCD touchscreen beautifully connects to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It can also connect to Alexa.
Plus, The Ford Explorer Hybrid has a 12.3″ digital cluster display to report crucial vehicle information like trailer sway control.
We are impressed with the E-Z Second Row Entry feature that allows passengers in the third row to exit the vehicle with the push of a button quickly.
Safety-wise, the Ford Explorer Hybrid is loaded. There is emergency braking, collision avoidance, blind-spot detection, auto high beam lamps, lane-keeping assistance, and more.
We think the Ford Explorer was judged a little harshly. It’s an excellent option for the entire family with outstanding tech, power, and off-roading capabilities.
