For Explorer customers who want on-road performance, as well as those who are more drawn to style, Ford is expanding the Explorer ST lineup with two new choices for the 2022 model year – the new Explorer ST rear-wheel-drive model and the new Explorer ST-Line series.
Now in its sixth generation, Ford Explorer continues to build on its strengths in the highly competitive midsize SUV segment. Ford Performance’s Explorer ST model accounts for nearly one in five 2021 Explorer sales, and expanded lineup gives customers even more options, whether they desire the on-road performance of rear-wheel drive or the performance-inspired style without maximum Explorer ST performance.
“We’ve taken Explorer, already the all-time best-selling SUV*, and given our customers the chance to put the emphasis on the things they value most,” said Jeff Marentic, Ford marketing manager. “For on-road performance and styling, our new rear-wheel-drive Explorer ST and new Explorer ST-Line are specifically designed to appeal to new customer groups with different adventure needs.”
The new Explorer ST family models join the adventure-ready Explorer Timberline, the most off-road-capable Explorer ever, in the 2022 Explorer lineup.
For driving enthusiasts, Explorer ST now available as rear-wheel-drive-only
Looking to give on-road performance SUV drivers more options, 2022 Explorer ST comes standard with rear-wheel drive; four-wheel drive is available. The vehicle is powered by a 3.0-liter EcoBoost® engine that produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb.-ft. of torque** and a 10-speed automatic transmission.
“No two SUV drivers use their vehicles the same way, so our goal is to meet the needs of as many as possible,” said Lee Newcombe, Ford Explorer marketing manager. “Four-wheel-drive capability is great if you need it, but if you don’t, you shouldn’t have to pay for it. These changes to the Explorer lineup were guided by what our customers told us they wanted.”
ST-Line expands to Explorer for 2022
Explorer ST-Line, like the Edge ST-Line that joined the Ford SUV lineup in 2020, is positioned between XLT and Limited, with various appearance and technology upgrades to stand apart in the showroom. The model is built on a rear-wheel-drive platform with four-wheel-drive capability and is powered by the most popular Explorer powertrain, a 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine and 10-speed automatic transmission.
Designed for drivers who favor the performance-inspired appearance of the ST brand but don’t require its full power and capability, Explorer ST-Line comes with a starting MSRP that is $7,570 less than Explorer ST and $2,575 less than Explorer Enthusiast ST†.
From the outside, Explorer ST-Line mirrors a fully equipped Explorer ST. It rides on 20-inch machined aluminum wheels and wears ST-inspired features such as a blacked-out grille, fascia-integrated dual exhaust tips, gloss-black “EXPLORER” hood badging, and unique black-out treatment for headlamps and taillamps.
The interior is designed to provide the feel of performance while surrounding the customer with the latest technologies. Explorer ST-Line customers will find Ebony Black ActiveX™-trimmed seats with Miko inserts, heated first-row seats, heated sport-style steering wheel and red accent stitching throughout. Available premium technology features include 12-speaker B&O® sound system, wireless charging pad, auto-dimming rearview mirror and 360-degree camera. There is also Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ technology†† including Evasive Steering Assist, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and voice-activated navigation. Additional touches include ST-Line scuff plates and premium floor mats.
“The ST brand has been very well received by Explorer customers since it arrived two years ago,” Newcombe said. “With the addition of Explorer ST-Line, Explorer will offer the broadest performance-inspired lineup in the segment.”
Other customer-driven upgrades across the Explorer lineup include:
- New standard 400-horsepower powertrain for Explorer King Ranch® and Explorer Platinum
- Pick your second-row seat: Customers have a choice of a second-row bench seat or captain’s chairs at no additional charge
- Standard Technology Package on King Ranch and Platinum models includes 10.1-inch touch screen, multicontour seats and 14-speaker B&O sound system
- Second-row bench seat option on Timberline models
- New seat trim on XLT Sport Appearance Package features Ebony seat bolsters with Light Slate inserts
- Two new exterior colors are Stone Blue and Burgundy Velvet
2022 Explorer models, including Explorer ST, Explorer ST-Line and Explorer Timberline, are due in showrooms later this year.
*Based on IHS Markit, 1946-Current U.S. Total New Cumulative Registrations, for all vehicles identified as SUVs.
*‘*Horsepower and torque ratings based on premium fuel per SAE J1349® standard. Your results may vary. Horsepower and torque are independent attributes and may not be achieved simultaneously.
†Taxes, title and license fees extra.
††Driver-assist features do not replace the driver’s attention, judgement, and need to control the vehicle. It does not replace safe driving. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations.
BANG & OLUFSEN© 2021 AND B&O© 2021. BANG & OLUFSEN™ AND B&O™ are registered trademarks of Bang & Olufsen Group. Licensed by Harman Becker Automotive Systems Manufacturing Kft.
