When considering a family-friendly SUV, the 2017 Ford Explorer often enters the conversation as an optimal choice. However, a question lingers: Can this versatile vehicle, with its charismatic aesthetics and spacious interior, also deliver admirable fuel economy? As many journey towards a more eco-friendly driving experience, challenges inevitably arise. Is the Ford Explorer’s fuel efficiency an element that can coexist with its inherent power and capability? Let’s delve deeper into the intricacies of the 2017 Explorer’s fuel economy, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and everything in between.
The 2017 Ford Explorer is engineered with a variety of engines, each presenting distinct performance parameters that significantly affect overall fuel efficiency. The baseline engine, a 3.5-liter V6, offers a commendable balance of power and practicality. Producing 290 horsepower, it deftly manages to marry performance with responsibility. The government rating for this V6 engine rests at an average of 20 miles per gallon (mpg) in city driving and 27 mpg on the highway. These ratings are ascertainable in a realm where many large SUVs struggle to keep pace, providing an enticing glimpse into the Explorer’s capabilities.
Now, for those who desire a taste of adventure without sacrificing fiscal sensibility, the Explorer also features an ecologically minded 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four engine variant. With its striking combination of efficiency and robust torque, this option appeals to both the eco-conscientious driver and those who appreciate spirited driving. Clocking in at approximately 22 mpg in the city and up to 29 mpg on the highway, it tantalizes those who may feel the pinch of excessive fuel expenditures. But does the turbocharged option compromise the vehicle’s overall performance? It’s an inquiry worth pondering as we assess the practical implications of engine choice.
Adventurous drivers may now be wondering: is the 2017 Ford Explorer’s efficiency compromised by its substantial weight and size? With a notable curb weight ranging from about 4,000 to 4,400 pounds, the Explorer exists in a category that naturally poses fuel efficiency dilemmas. It’s crucial to acknowledge that heavier vehicles traditionally demand more energy to perform, thus impacting overall fuel economy. This reality begs the question – can the charm of the Explorer’s alluring ride outweigh the drawbacks of its heft? Herein lies the paradox; while it embodies the allure of a commanding presence on the road, it grapples with the exigency for optimal fuel utilization.
Additionally, one’s driving habits significantly influence fuel economy. City driving, bedecked with stop-and-go traffic, can act as a notorious fuel guzzler, while sustained highway cruising typically yields noticeably better mileage. The Explorer, equipped with operational features designed to mitigate these challenges, such as an adaptable cruise control system and engine idle stop-start technology, attempts to elevate efficiency across varying driving situations. However, dynamic real-world conditions—such as unpredictable weather or road inclines—can introduce variables that are difficult to control.
Moreover, consumers will want to consider the variations from different drivetrain configurations. The 2017 Ford Explorer offers both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive setups, each bestowed with unique characteristics. The front-wheel drive variant tends to outperform its all-wheel drive counterpart in terms of fuel efficiency, often presenting 1 to 2 mpg increments that can accrue significant savings over time. Hence, car buyers must navigate their personal preferences and driving circumstances, weighing practical options against aesthetic and performance desires.
As we explore more about the Explorer’s capacitance, let’s shift focus to technology—for it has revolutionized how vehicles optimize fuel efficiency. The 2017 Explorer is well-appointed with Ford’s SYNC infotainment system, allowing drivers to engage navigational aids and efficiency-tracking applications at their fingertips. Such technologies empower drivers to make informed decisions regarding fuel management and route efficiency. However, can technology compensate for the inherent flaws that come with a heavier vehicle? This thought prompts a fascinating dialogue about modern advancements balancing age-old automotive challenges.
In addition to technological enhancements, tire choice plays a surprisingly pivotal role in fuel efficacy. The Explorer’s design accommodates a range of tires, each with varying resistance levels that can influence overall performance. Low rolling-resistance tires, for instance, can elevate fuel efficiency, proving that even the smallest variable can yield significant repercussions. Thus, it becomes evident that vehicle management extends far beyond merely observing fuel gauge levels; it encompasses elements of vehicle maintenance and design that require astuteness from the owner.
As prospective buyers speculate upon the 2017 Ford Explorer’s virtues, contemplating fuel efficiency remains paramount. Ultimately, this journey culminates in personal preferences: the desire for space, amenities, and comfort can conflict with eco-sensitive aspirations. While it can’t quite rival smaller, more efficient crossover options, it remains competitive within its segment. The heart of the matter lies in whether potential owners can find their unique mitigation of the challenge of fuel economy in an SUV that excels in a multitude of other realms. Each journey taken in this capable vehicle illuminates a vivid tapestry woven with decisions, habits, and adaptive routes ahead.
So, is the 2017 Ford Explorer an efficient choice for the modern driver? While it indeed presents a balanced argument, the choice ultimately depends on the values one champions. The exploratory road ahead is paved with choices, and the decision rests firmly within your capable hands.
