The new 2022 Ford Explorer has been confirmed, and it should arrive towards the end of the year. Blue Ovals full-size SUV Ford Explorer is one of the most popular and recognizable SUVs in history. This SUV benefited from a full redesign in 2020, and because of that, we don’t expect many changes for 2022. The most exciting news is that it will get a new off-road package called Timberline.
Like before, the Explorer is available with the latest in-car tech and driver aids that Blue Oval has to offer. It also rides on a rear-wheel-drive platform, resulting in impressive tow ratings and improved handling. Unlike many of its rivals, the Ford Explorer is the rarest SUV that comes with four different engine variants.
New Trim Timberline
The recent reports reveal that the 2022 Ford Explorer will offer a new off-road package rumored to be called the Timberline. Exactly four years ago, Ford trademarked the Timberline name, though we were unsure what the former would be used for until now. Based on what we know, the forthcoming Explorer will remain dimensionally the same, keeping its attractive design language.
However, the Timberline package should make this SUV model more off-road compatible, but it won’t be extreme as the Tremor or Raptor badge. From what we know, the new package will include beefier all-terrain tires, modified front and rear fascia’s, a skid plate, and also a small suspension lift. Thanks to that, the Explorer`s off-road capability should increase, resulting in great traction in all kinds of weather and terrains.
2022 Ford Explorer Interior Upgrades
Inside, the new 2022 Ford Explorer will definitively look more stylish than the outgoing one. This SUV has one of the most comfortable cabins on the market, offering enough room for seven occupants. For 2022, the interior looks sportier, with an athletic design that is super appealing.
On top of that, the new Timberline package will likely include unique badging and better quality materials to provide an outdoorsy theme. Thanks to this package, the semi-rugged Ford Explorer is definitively ready to rival models like the GMC Acadia AT4 and Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition.
Engine Specs
Under the hood, the forthcoming 2022 Ford Explorer is available with four different engines. The base model uses a 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-4 that generates 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a rear-wheel-drive setup. All-wheel drive can be chosen as well, but only as optional with this engine. The next one is a Hybrid system that benefits from a 3.3-liter V6 with an electric motor. This combination delivers an output of 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque.
The Platinum and ST versions are available as well, featuring a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. This engine produces 365 horsepower in the Platinum and around 400 horsepower in the ST. All-wheel drive is standard on both versions.
2022 Ford Explorer Release Date and Price
One of the most selling Blue Oval SUVs, the Ford Explorer, will arrive sometime this year. Considering that the last time Explorer was redesigned fully in 2020, we don’t expect noting significant for 2022 model.
The new 2022 Ford Explorer will continue to ride on the same platform, deploying the same engines. Pricing will surly remains the same, and expect rear-drive Ford Explorer to starts at $33,470, while the Platinum trim costs $55,000. However, the price of the new Timberline trim is yet to be announced. The entry-level Explorer is in line with Honda Pilot and is below the Toyota Highlander.
Source: caranddriver.com
