The Ford Explorer is one of the world’s most popular SUVs. Unsurprisingly, Ford offers many trims and models of the midsize SUV. There are even a few different versions of the hybrid variant. Here’s how much you’ll pay for a fully loaded 2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid.

2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid trims

According to Edmunds, the standard Explorer comes with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower. All models use the same engine until you reach the ST performance model, which upgrades to a 400-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. Alternatively, two different trims can swap their base engine for a hybrid powertrain. They are Limited and Platinum, one of which is the most expensive in the lineup.

A 2022 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid uses a V6-based hybrid powertrain producing 318 horsepower combined. Additionally, it averages the best fuel economy of any version of the midsize SUV. More specifically, the Explorer Limited Hybrid has an EPA-estimated 27 mpg combined.

Explorer Platinum Hybrid

If you’re looking for a truly fully loaded Explorer Hybrid, the Platinum model is as good as it gets. Firstly, it uses the same hybrid powertrain as the lower Limited model. However, the Platinum model is far more luxurious. Starting with equipment first introduced at the King Ranch level, the Platinum Hybrid comes with a digital gauge cluster, leather upholstery, massage front seats, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, a 14-speaker B&O sound system, and automatic rear braking.

However, the Platinum model gets even more than the Explorer King Ranch. Adaptive headlights, 21-inch wheels, an automated parking system, and extended leather upholstery round out the exclusive features—the standard and hybrid 2022 Ford Explorer Platinum rival luxury midsize SUVs. Features like massaging front seats don’t come with just any model.

Fully loaded Ford Explorer Hybrid price

If you want to buy a fully loaded 2022 Ford Explorer Platinum Hybrid, it will cost $53,620. Alternatively, the Limited Hybrid model starts at $53,305. The two are very close in price. As a result, we have a hard time recommending the Limited Hybrid trim over the Platinum Hybrid. With such a small price margin, the equipment found in a Platinum variant is far better. Although the Explorer Limited is nothing to scoff at with things like heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated second-row seats.

Often, the hybrid variant of a model is far more expensive than its standard gas-only version. Luckily, that isn’t the case for the 2022 Ford Explorer lineup of midsize SUVs. For example, the Toyota Highlander starts at $35,855, while the hybrid version of the same vehicle starts much higher at $39,555. The same applies to the Hyundai Santa Fe, which starts at $27,700, far below the $34,300 Santa Fe Hybrid.

Ford’s lower hybrid variant, the Explorer Limited Hybrid, costs a bit more than a regular Limited. However, the Platinum Hybrid is actually cheaper than the Explorer with which it shares a name.

Should you buy a fully loaded 2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid?

In conclusion, the 2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid is an excellent midsize SUV option. With many features and outstanding fuel economy, the fully loaded version is a great value. Unlike most competitors, it isn’t much more expensive than its gas-only variant. Although the highest Explorer Hybrid trim seems costly, it could easily be considered a luxury model. As a result, it’s one of the cheapest luxury midsize hybrid SUVs available.