Ford Explorer Degrees of Performance

The 2022 Ford Explorer is capable of a remarkable performance, no matter which of the engine options you choose.
It comes standard with a 2.3L EcoBoost® 4-cylinder engine, but there are two other engines to consider, as well. Depending on your needs, you may want to consider these engines and their respective abilities, so the Explorer will be capable of the feats you need it for, especially when it comes to towing.
The 2.3L EcoBoost® 4-cylinder is turbocharged and produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
For those who are interested in going green, the Explorer has an available 3.3L Hybrid V6 that delivers 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque.
The available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6-also turbocharged-delivers the most power you can get with the Explorer. It generates a total of:
- 400 horsepower
- 415 lb-ft of torque
Ford Explorer Cabin Space & Cargo Capacity

Whether you're packing up for a family vacation to the beach or simply gearing up to move to a new city, the 2022 Explorer offers an impressive amount of cabin space.
Over its three rows, it can easily accommodate seven passengers. However, you can tailor your vehicle to carry even more cargo due to the split-folding rear seats.
The Explorer offers 152.7 cubic feet of passenger space in its cabin. There is 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space when all the seats are upright.
The Ford offers 87.8 cubic feet of total cargo space if the second and third rows are folded down. When just the third row is folded, there's 47.9 cubic feet of space for cargo.
With the 47.9 cubic feet of cargo space, you can pack up the Explorer with things like:
- A kitchen cabinet
- Washing machine
- Large bookcase or two
2022 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity & Options

Given the impressive towing capacity of the Ford Explorer, it makes for the perfect SUV for family vacations, especially if you can't sacrifice any passenger space for your cargo.
The Explorer towing capacity varies with the three distinct engine options, especially when the towing packages are included.
The base-level 2.3L 4-cylinder can tow as much as 5,300 pounds, whether you opt for 4-wheel drive (4WD) or rear-wheel drive.
The available 3.0L V6 engine is the strongest of the group, giving you access to as much as 5,600 pounds of maximum towing capacity.
This much towing capacity lets you tow things like:
- Utility trailers
- Boats
- Travel trailers
Finally, going for the 3.3L Hybrid V6 still gives you the option to tow boats, trailers, and other vehicles, thanks to a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds!
Long List of Towing & Capability Features
Simply having the strength to tow heavy trailers isn't enough to ensure an SUV will be a reliable towing machine. There are lots of other factors that go into towing, such as stability for both the trailer and the SUV itself. For 2022, Ford has given the Explorer a range of intuitive and useful features to help make your towing experiences more enjoyable.
A range of features offered in the SUV includes trailer sway control, AdvanceTrac™ with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™), and a Class IV Trailer Tow Package.
What this grouping of features does is help you maintain poise and traction while towing. Even if you're driving along winding, rural roads with a heavy trailer attached to the rear, these systems will keep you steady by selectively braking when needed and adjusting engine power when appropriate.
Further, the 2022 Explorer will exude confidence if you have to leave the pavement for some uncultivated terrain.
With the benefit of an available Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System™, you can alter the driving dynamics of your SUV by simply turning a knob in the cabin.
Each available driving mode is fitted to a specific style of terrain. Using Normal mode makes sense for daily driving around town. You can flip to Tow/Haul mode when you have a trailer attached.
The rest of the modes are:
- Trail
- Deep Snow/Sand
- Slippery
- Sport
- Eco
If you happen to be parked on a steep incline or decline, your SUV will remain poised, thanks to the infusion of a Hill Descent Control™ system that monitors and adjusts braking and speed.
Finally, Ford is devoted to keeping the Explorer well-balanced, even as the weather grows harsh. If you're driving along, and the wind begins to pick up, you won't have to worry about your SUV being tossed around, thanks to a side-wind stabilization arrangement.
Other Performance Tidbits

It's impossible to discuss every performance aspect of the acclaimed 2022 Ford Explorer. A few other notable features are worth getting into, however.
The first is the transmission, a 10-speed automatic. No matter the engine you choose, this will be responsible for moving you through gears. It also provides smooth transitions between each gear for improved performance.
Other performance features include:
- Regenerative braking system (hybrid engine only)
- Adaptive headlamps with LED signature lighting
- Remote start system
Learn Even More About the 2022 Ford Explorer
While you're now aware of the impressive 2022 Ford Explorer towing abilities, engine performance, and expansive cargo space, you're one step closer to getting behind the wheel.
However, the Explorer offers more than just its impressive abilities. So, if you're looking to peek inside at the vehicle's style and features, you may want to browse our inventory at Richmond Ford Lincoln for a closer look.
Our team is always happy to help our friends in the Richmond, Ashland, and Mechanicsville, VA, areas get behind the wheel of a vehicle they love.
Contact us today!