If you are in the market for a new SUV, one of the key factors you need to consider is the gas mileage of the vehicle you are interested in. Gas prices can be unpredictable, and a vehicle with poor gas mileage can end up costing you a lot of money over time. The Ford Explorer is a popular SUV that is known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and impressive performance. In this article, we will take a closer look at the gas mileage of the Ford Explorer and what factors can affect it.
Gas Mileage of Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that is available in several different trims, including the base model, XLT, Limited, and Platinum. The gas mileage of the Ford Explorer varies depending on the model you choose and the type of engine it has. For example, the base model Explorer has a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. On the other hand, the Platinum trim level comes standard with a 3.0-liter V6 engine that gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
The gas mileage of the Ford Explorer is impressive for an SUV of its size and power. In fact, when compared to other mid-size SUVs, the Ford Explorer ranks near the top in terms of fuel efficiency. However, there are several factors that can affect the gas mileage of the vehicle, including the type of engine and transmission, driving habits, and terrain and weather. Let’s take a closer look at these factors.
Factors Affecting Gas Mileage
When it comes to gas mileage, there are several factors that can affect how many miles per gallon your vehicle gets. The first factor is the type of engine and transmission your vehicle has. The Ford Explorer is available with several different engine options, including a four-cylinder, a V6, and a hybrid. Each engine type can affect the gas mileage of the vehicle differently. In general, a smaller engine will get better gas mileage than a larger engine, but it may not provide as much power or acceleration.
The transmission type can also affect gas mileage. The Ford Explorer is available with both an automatic and a manual transmission. In general, an automatic transmission will get better gas mileage than a manual transmission because it can shift gears more efficiently. However, some drivers prefer the control and performance of a manual transmission, even if it means sacrificing a few miles per gallon.
Other factors that can affect gas mileage include driving habits, terrain, and weather. Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, can lower your gas mileage significantly. Driving on hilly or mountainous terrain can also affect gas mileage because the engine has to work harder to maintain speed. Finally, weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold can affect gas mileage because the engine has to work harder to maintain the same level of performance.
Factors Affecting Gas Mileage
In addition to engine and transmission type, there are several other factors that can affect the gas mileage of your Ford Explorer. One of the most significant factors is driving habits. Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, can significantly lower your gas mileage. On the other hand, driving at a steady pace and avoiding sudden movements can help you get the most out of your fuel tank.
Terrain and weather can also affect gas mileage. If you frequently drive on hilly or mountainous roads, your gas mileage may be lower than if you drive on flat terrain. This is because the engine has to work harder to maintain speed when going uphill. Similarly, extreme weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold can affect gas mileage because the engine has to work harder to maintain the same level of performance.
Finally, the condition of your Ford Explorer can also affect gas mileage. Regular maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and air filter replacements can help keep your engine running efficiently and improve gas mileage. Additionally, keeping your tires properly inflated and removing any unnecessary weight from your vehicle can also help improve gas mileage.
Ford Explorer MPG by Model Year
The gas mileage of the Ford Explorer has improved significantly over the years. In the past, SUVs were known for their poor gas mileage, but newer models like the Ford Explorer have made significant strides in fuel efficiency. Let’s take a closer look at the gas mileage of the Ford Explorer by model year.
The 2021 Ford Explorer gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with the base model’s 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine. The hybrid version of the 2021 Explorer gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Looking back, the 2010 Ford Explorer got an EPA-estimated 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway with its base V6 engine. The 2015 Ford Explorer, on the other hand, got an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway with its base four-cylinder engine.
Several factors can affect changes in gas mileage over time, including advancements in engine technology and changes in vehicle design. As car manufacturers continue to focus on improving fuel efficiency, we can expect to see even more significant improvements in gas mileage in the years to come.
Tips for Improving Gas Mileage
If you want to get the best gas mileage possible from your Ford Explorer, there are several things you can do to improve fuel efficiency. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of every gallon of gas:
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your Ford Explorer running smoothly and efficiently. This includes things like changing the oil, replacing air filters, and keeping the tires properly inflated. A well-maintained vehicle will use less fuel and get better gas mileage than one that is not properly maintained.
Proper Tire Inflation
Proper tire inflation is critical to getting good gas mileage. Underinflated tires can cause your vehicle to use more fuel because they create more rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder. Make sure to check your tire pressure regularly and keep your tires inflated to the proper level.
Lighten the Load
The more weight your Ford Explorer has to carry, the harder the engine has to work, which can lower gas mileage. Try to remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle, and avoid carrying heavy cargo or luggage unless you absolutely need to.
Avoid Idling
Idling your vehicle wastes fuel and can lower gas mileage. If you are parked or waiting for someone, turn off the engine instead of leaving it running. This can help you save fuel and improve your gas mileage over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that offers impressive gas mileage for a vehicle of its size and power. The gas mileage of the Ford Explorer varies depending on the model you choose and the type of engine it has. However, there are several factors that can affect the gas mileage of the vehicle, including driving habits, terrain, and weather.
If you want to get the best gas mileage possible from your Ford Explorer, there are several things you can do to improve fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance, proper tire inflation, lightening the load, and avoiding idling are all simple steps you can take to help you get the most out of every gallon of gas.
When choosing a vehicle, it is essential to consider gas mileage as an important factor. The Ford Explorer is a great choice for those looking for a spacious, comfortable SUV that also offers good gas mileage. With its impressive performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency, the Ford Explorer is an excellent vehicle for anyone looking for a mid-size SUV.
