Ford Explorer 2WD FFV
20 MPG The 2019 Ford Explorer 2WD FFV is EPA-rated at 20 MPG combined (17 city / 24 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 750 gallons, $2400 a year in fuel, or $0.160 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2002–2019 run it averages 18.5 MPG, improving by 4 MPG over 11 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.125 | $1250 | $1875 | $2500 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.150 | $1500 | $2250 | $3000 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.160 | $1600 | $2400 | $3200 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.175 | $1750 | $2625 | $3500 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.200 | $2000 | $3000 | $4000 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.225 | $2250 | $3375 | $4500 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.250 | $2500 | $3750 | $5000 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 20 MPG | 17 | 24 | $3100 | 454 | 1 |
| 2018 | 20 MPG | 17 | 24 | $3100 | 455 | 1 |
| 2017 | 20 MPG | 17 | 24 | $3100 | 452 | 1 |
| 2016 | 20 MPG | 17 | 24 | $3100 | 452 | 1 |
| 2015 | 20 MPG | 17 | 24 | $3100 | 450 | 1 |
| 2014 | 20 MPG | 17 | 24 | $3100 | 450 | 1 |
| 2013 | 20 MPG | 17 | 24 | $3100 | 450 | 1 |
| 2005 | 15 MPG | 13 | 19 | $4150 | 592 | 1 |
| 2004 | 16 MPG | 14 | 20 | $3900 | 555 | 1 |
| 2003 | 16 MPG | 14 | 19 | $3900 | 555 | 1 |
| 2002 | 16 MPG | 14 | 19 | $3900 | 555 | 1 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 29 standard sport utility vehicle 2wd models tracked here, the Ford Explorer 2WD FFV ranks 12 on current figures, against a class average of 19.8 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: BMW X5 sDrive35i (21), Ford Explorer FWD (21), Hyundai Palisade FWD (21), Lincoln Aviator RWD (21), Buick Enclave FWD (22).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 454 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 6.8 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Ford Explorer 2WD FFV get?
The 2019 Ford Explorer 2WD FFV is rated at 20 MPG combined by the EPA — 17 city and 24 highway. Across all 11 model years in the database it averages 18.5 MPG, ranging from 15 to 20 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Ford Explorer 2WD FFV cost in fuel per year?
At 20 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 750 gallons — roughly $2400 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.160 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2019 model is $3100.
Has the Ford Explorer 2WD FFV become more efficient over time?
Yes. It has gone from 16 MPG in 2002 to 20 in 2019 — an improvement of 4 MPG, or 25% across 11 model years.
Is the Ford Explorer 2WD FFV efficient for its class?
It ranks 12 of 29 in the Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD class on current figures, against a class average of 19.8 MPG. That is 0.2 better than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.