2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid

　　

2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid Review

byChristian WardlawCorrespondent

　　Christian Wardlaw has worked in the automotive industry since 1994. He has written nearly 10,000 car-related articles and tested and reviewed more than 2,000 vehicles over the course of his career. Chris is a correspondent at zzdcar and was the first editor-in-chief of zzdcar.com in the 1990s. He has also contributed to Autotrader, CarGurus, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, NADAguides, New York Daily News Autos and WardsAuto. His mom claims that his first word was “car,” and Chris believes that Miata is always the answer.

　　The Ford Explorer is one of the longest-running SUVs on the road. It debuted more than 30 years ago and kick-started an American love affair with sport-utility vehicles that persists to this day. Our editors have praised the current-generation Explorer for its powerful engines, generous cargo space and standard safety features. However, its subpar interior materials don't often match up to its price tag, which can get into luxury SUV territory on higher trim levels.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.06 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$139/mo  for Explorer Limited Hybrid

　　Explorer Limited Hybrid

　　Limited Hybrid 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 10A) - $53,005 MSRPLimited Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (3.3L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 10A) - $55,005 MSRPPlatinum Hybrid 4dr SUV (3.3L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 10A) - $53,820 MSRPPlatinum Hybrid 4dr SUV AWD (3.3L 6cyl gas/electric hybrid 10A) (Most Popular) - $55,820 MSRP

　　vs

　　$229/mo

　　Avg. Large SUV

　　While we find aspects of the Explorer appealing, the crop of midsize SUVs has grown significantly since the SUV debuted, and it is no longer the class leader it once was. The Kia Telluride and its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Palisade, have taken the top spots for our recommendations in recent years. Both are more comfortable and feel more premium inside than the Explorer, and each gets a refresh for the 2023 model year. A redesigned 2023 Honda Pilot is rolling out, too, and the lineup includes a new TrailSport version that offers improved off-roading capability.

　　Rumor had it the 2023 Explorer would get updates, too, but for now the SUV carries on without major changes. When Ford bestows a freshening upon its family hauler, probably for the 2024 model year, the company will likely update the Explorer's styling, interior design and materials, and technology. Look for Ford's next-generation Sync infotainment systems and BlueCruise hands-free highway driving assist system at that time.

　　In the meantime, if you can't wait for the 2024 Explorer, check out what our test team has to say about the current model in our Expert Rating below.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Average

　　7.4

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.0/10

　　How does the Explorer Hybrid drive? The Explorer with the hybrid powertrain feels eager and balanced. Much of this goodness stems from a chassis that combines the dynamic benefits of a rear-wheel-drive foundation, an advanced four-wheel independent suspension, and lightweight unit-body construction. Its all-wheel-drive system can deliver power continuously in challenging conditions, something that can't be said of other AWD hybrids.

　　The engine holds up its end of the bargain when it comes to power, and it is a smooth highway cruiser. The trouble is that this hybrid powertrain doesn't feel as well sorted as it should. Acceleration isn't as smooth or predictable as it is in other hybrids, such as the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Clumsy is too strong a word, but the Explorer's system could certainly use more polish.

　　

Comfort

6.5/10

　　How comfortable is the Explorer Hybrid? The Explorer's front seats are nicely shaped and comfortable. But we don't recommend the optional massaging ones — the mechanism behind the massaging can make the seats feel lumpy when it's turned off. Seat comfort gets progressively less cushiony as you move back to the second and third rows. Our Explorer Limited test vehicle rode smoothly most of the time, but smaller road imperfections were a little more noticeable than in some other SUVs.

　　Operating the automatic climate control system can require more manual adjustments than expected; the air vents won't pump out as much air as you want when you lower the temperature, for instance. Another drawback is that the Explorer isn't as quiet as it should be. The hybrid system emits more clunks, clicks and whirs than it should, and you can hear gusty wind noises at even moderate highway speeds.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below