Which 2022 Ford Explorer should you choose, the base or XLT model? Both of these three-row, midsize crossovers deliver a very desirable daily drive, with generous power and lots of roomy comfort. The Explorer that’s right for you ultimately depends on what you want from yours. Check out our comparison guide to learn more.
Price
The 2022 Ford Explorer base model starts at $33,245, giving you the best possible price on one of these family-friendly crossover SUVs. But the mid-grade Explorer XLT is only slightly more expensive, starting at $36,145. Let’s take a closer look at what you get for those prices.
Power & Performance
When it comes to power, the 2022 Ford Explorer base and XLT offer virtually the same ride. Both SUVs come standard with the Explorer’s base engine, a 300-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine that’s primed for an impressive performance.
Rear-wheel drive is standard, and it’s a major contributor to the Explorer’s sporty performance. When you ch
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Standard rear-wheel drive
- Optional four-wheel drive
- Optional hill descent control
- Optional Terrain Management System (Normal, Trail, Deep Snow/Sand, Slippery, Sport, Tow/Haul, and Eco modes)
Interior Features
Inside, the 2022 Ford Explorer base model is roomy and comfortable, two characteristics families can’t do without. The cabin features cloth seating and versatile three-row seating, giving you the power to trade out seats for extra cargo space. High-tech safety features, including frontal collision mitigation, help you keep your loved ones protected.
If you decide to upgrade to the XLT, on the other hand, your Ford Explorer will come with second-row captain’s chairs. These reduce overall seating capacity from seven to six, something to keep in mind if you've got a big family. The XLT also offers a few extra options, including the SYNC 3 infotainment system with complete smartphone integration, via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Base:
- Cloth seating
- Third-row 50/50 split-folding bench seat
- FordPass Connect
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
- Six-speaker audio system
- Frontal collision mitigation
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping system
XLT:
- Cloth seating
- Heated front seats
- Second-row captain’s chairs
- Optional ActiveX seating
- Optional leather seating surfaces
- FordPass Connect
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
- Dual second-row Smart-Charging USB ports
- Optional SYNC 3 with voice-activated navigation
- Six-speaker audio system
- Frontal collision mitigation
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping system
- Optional remote start
Exterior Features
The 2022 Ford Explorer comes standard with some upscale features, including a power liftgate and automatic headlamps. And you can choose from five exterior colors for the Explorer that suits your style.
When you choose the XLT, you’re not only getting more style— with body-color door handles and LED signature lighting — you’re also getting more options. XLT shoppers can choose from nine exterior colors. Roof rack side rails are standard, helping you transport your favorite athletic equipment. And LED fog lamps are also available to cut through the gloom on a misty morning.
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- 18-inch aluminum wheels
- Automatic high beams
- Automatic headlamps
- LED taillights
- Power liftgate
- Black door handles and sideview mirror caps
- Exterior color options: Agate Black, Iconic Silver, Atlas Blue, Carbonized Gray, Forged Green
XLT:
- 18-inch five-spoke Sparkle Silver aluminum wheels
- Automatic high beams
- Automatic headlamps
- LED signature lighting
- LED taillamps
- Body-color door handles
- Power and heated glass sideview mirrors with black caps
- Roof rack side rails
- Optional LED fog lamps
- Exterior color options: Agate Black, Stone Blue, Iconic Silver, Atlas Blue, Rapid Red, Star White, Carbonized Gray, Forged Green, Burgundy Velvet
Choose Your 2022 Ford Explorer
In the end, the Explorer base gives you a great deal on a family-friendly crossover SUV. But the XLT only costs a little more, and it offers a wider range of convenience features and options alike. Choosing between the 2022 Ford Explorer base and XLT comes down to which features you crave and how much you’re willing to spend.