2022 Ford Explorer ST: Is It A Good Car?
So, you're wondering if the 2022 Ford Explorer ST is a good car, huh? Well, let's dive right into it. This SUV has been making waves, and for good reason. It's got the looks, the power, and the features that many car buyers are looking for. But is it really worth the hype? Is it the right choice for you and your family? Let’s break it down and see what makes this particular Explorer tick.
Performance and Power
When we talk about the 2022 Ford Explorer ST, we've gotta start with performance. This thing is a beast! Under the hood, you'll find a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that churns out an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. That's some serious muscle, guys. Whether you're merging onto the highway or towing a trailer, the Explorer ST has got the power to get the job done.
The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and quick shifts. This means you get a responsive and engaging driving experience, whether you're cruising around town or tackling winding roads. Plus, the ST comes standard with all-wheel drive, which gives you added confidence in various weather conditions. Rain, snow, or shine, this SUV is ready to handle it all.
But it's not just about raw power. The Explorer ST also boasts a sport-tuned suspension, which enhances its handling and agility. It feels more planted and controlled than your average SUV, making it fun to drive. The steering is precise and responsive, giving you a good feel for the road. And with its powerful brakes, the Explorer ST offers confident stopping power, which is always a good thing when you're hauling around precious cargo – like your family.
Now, let's be real. With all that power, fuel economy isn't the Explorer ST's strong suit. You're looking at around 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. But hey, you can't have it all, right? If you're prioritizing performance over fuel efficiency, the Explorer ST is definitely worth considering. And let's face it, the grin on your face when you floor the accelerator might just make you forget about those trips to the gas station.
Interior and Comfort
Okay, so the 2022 Ford Explorer ST packs a punch under the hood, but what about the inside? Well, Ford has stepped up their game in recent years, and the Explorer ST is a testament to that. The interior is well-designed, with quality materials and a comfortable layout. You'll find supportive seats, a user-friendly infotainment system, and plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
The ST trim comes with unique interior accents, such as leather upholstery with Miko micro-perforated inserts and City Silver accent stitching. These details give the cabin a sporty and premium feel. The front seats are heated and ventilated, which is a nice touch for those hot summer days and cold winter mornings. And with the available twin-panel moonroof, you can let in plenty of natural light and enjoy the open-air feeling.
When it comes to technology, the Explorer ST doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with a 10.1-inch touchscreen display, which is crisp and responsive. The infotainment system is easy to navigate, with clear menus and intuitive controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are also standard, so you can seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. Plus, with the available Bang & Olufsen sound system, you can enjoy your favorite tunes with crystal-clear audio quality.
Space is another area where the Explorer ST shines. With three rows of seating, it can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers. The second-row seats are spacious and comfortable, and even the third-row seats are decent for adults on shorter trips. And when you need to haul cargo, the Explorer ST offers plenty of room. With the second and third rows folded down, you get a generous 87.8 cubic feet of space. That's enough room for luggage, groceries, sports equipment, or whatever else you need to haul.
Technology and Features
In today's world, technology is a huge selling point for any car, and the 2022 Ford Explorer ST doesn't skimp on the tech features. It's loaded with goodies that make driving safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable. From advanced safety systems to cutting-edge infotainment, the Explorer ST has got you covered.
Let's start with safety. The Explorer ST comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of driver-assist technologies that includes features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. These systems help you stay aware of your surroundings and can even intervene to prevent accidents. And with the available Active Park Assist 2.0, the Explorer ST can practically park itself, making parallel and perpendicular parking a breeze.
On the infotainment front, the Explorer ST boasts a 10.1-inch touchscreen display that's both visually appealing and easy to use. The system is responsive and intuitive, with clear graphics and logical menus. You can easily access navigation, audio controls, climate settings, and more. And with the available wireless charging pad, you can keep your smartphone powered up without the hassle of cords.
Connectivity is another area where the Explorer ST excels. It comes standard with FordPass Connect, which allows you to connect to your car remotely using your smartphone. You can lock and unlock the doors, start the engine, check vehicle status, and even schedule maintenance appointments. And with the available Wi-Fi hotspot, you can stay connected on the go, whether you're streaming movies for the kids or working on the road.
Price and Value
Alright, let's talk about the bottom line. The 2022 Ford Explorer ST isn't exactly cheap, but it offers a lot of value for the money. The starting price is around $50,000, which puts it in competition with other performance-oriented SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT and the Dodge Durango SRT. But when you consider the Explorer ST's combination of power, features, and practicality, it's definitely a strong contender.
Now, it's important to keep in mind that the price can quickly climb as you add options and packages. Features like the premium sound system, moonroof, and advanced safety systems can add several thousand dollars to the final price. So, it's a good idea to carefully consider which features are most important to you and prioritize accordingly.
But even at its base price, the Explorer ST offers a lot of bang for your buck. You get a powerful engine, sporty handling, a comfortable interior, and a long list of standard features. And with Ford's reputation for reliability and dependability, you can expect the Explorer ST to hold its value over time.
Of course, value is subjective. What's worth it to one person may not be worth it to another. But if you're looking for a performance SUV that can do it all, the 2022 Ford Explorer ST is definitely worth a look. It's a versatile vehicle that can handle daily commutes, family road trips, and weekend adventures with ease.
Potential Drawbacks
No car is perfect, and the 2022 Ford Explorer ST has a few potential drawbacks that you should be aware of. These aren't deal-breakers, but they're worth considering before you make a decision.
Fuel economy, as we mentioned earlier, isn't the Explorer ST's strong suit. With its powerful engine and all-wheel drive, it's not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market. If you're looking for a gas-sipping family hauler, you might want to consider a hybrid or electric alternative.
Another potential drawback is the Explorer ST's ride quality. While the sport-tuned suspension enhances handling, it can also make the ride a bit firm, especially on rough roads. If you prioritize a smooth and comfortable ride above all else, you might find the Explorer ST to be a bit too stiff.
Finally, some reviewers have criticized the Explorer ST's interior materials. While the overall design is attractive, some of the plastics and trim pieces feel a bit cheap for a vehicle in this price range. However, this is a subjective issue, and others may not find it to be a major concern.
Final Verdict
So, is the 2022 Ford Explorer ST a good car? The answer is a resounding yes, with a few caveats. It's a powerful, sporty, and versatile SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. It's perfect for families who want a vehicle that can handle daily commutes, road trips, and weekend adventures. But it's not without its flaws. Fuel economy isn't great, the ride can be a bit firm, and some of the interior materials could be better. However, these drawbacks are relatively minor compared to the Explorer ST's many strengths.
If you're looking for a performance SUV that can do it all, the 2022 Ford Explorer ST is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and decide if it's the right fit for your needs and budget.