If the base model is a little too basic for you, the 2022 Explorer XLT trim model is here to help you balance your budget with a few extra luxury features. This midsize crossover SUV offers three rows of family-friendly comfort, turbocharged power, and a host of modern safety gear. Let’s take a closer look at the Explorer XLT’s offerings.
Why choose the 2022 Ford Explorer XLT?
In the Explorer trim model lineup, the XLT sits above the base model and below the more upscale Limited. The XLT costs a little more than the base model, but it also gives you more luxury features, including heated front seats and flashy chrome exterior trim. And the XLT is still a great deal, making it the right choice for families who want three comfy rows of seating, lots of modern features, and a relatively low price tag.
Which features come with the 2022 Ford Explorer XLT?
Compared to the base model, the mid-grade XLT cabin features upgraded interior trim. And its standard second-row captain’s chairs increase passenger comfort, although they also drop the Explorer’s overall seating capacity to six. The XLT also adds to the standard lineup with little extras, like a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats. This crossover is also a little flashier than the entry-level model, with chrome exterior trim and an optional twin-panel moonroof.
2022 Ford Explorer XLT features:
- Cloth seating
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Heated front seats
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- Second-row captain’s chairs
- 8-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Second-row USB ports
- LED signature lighting
- LED taillamps
- Power liftgate
- Roof rails
- Chrome exterior trim
- Optional remote start
- Optional twin-panel moonroof
What’s under the hood? Can the Explorer XLT tow?
This Ford crossover comes with the Explorer’s base powertrain: a turbocharged, 300-horsepower engine that sends power to the rear wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is available for improved off-road traction.
The Explorer’s rear-wheel-drive platform makes it feel sportier than competitors, lending to its dynamic handling and extra-hefty towing capabilities. Properly equipped, the Explorer XLT can tow up to 5,300 pounds. That means you should be able to lug a boat to your favorite loading dock or a trailer full of dirt bikes to the local motocross track, no problem.
The Explorer XLT also includes a suite of driver safety aids, including automatic emergency braking and a blind-spot warning system. If you accidentally stray from your lane, the lane-keeping assist system gently corrects your course. And standard trailer sway control helps you transport the family boat as safely as possible.
2022 Explorer XLT performance features:
- 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Standard rear-wheel drive
- Optional four-wheel drive
2022 Explorer XLT standard safety gear:
- Frontal collision mitigation
- Lane-keeping assist
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Trailer sway control
How much is the Ford Explorer XLT?
The mid-grade Explorer XLT starts at $37,245. At that price, you’ll enjoy everything the XLT has to offer, from its snappy turbocharged powertrain to its plush, family-friendly cabin. Optional features and packages do have the potential to increase the price, so keep that in mind as you shop for your Explorer.