Last year Ford introduced a new ST-Line trim level for the Edge, which adds the styling of the high-performance ST, but without the upgrades under the hood. Now the 2022 Explorer is also getting an ST-Line.

2022 Ford Explorer ST-Line

The 2022 Explorer ST-Line is aimed at buyers that like how the Explorer ST looks, but don’t need the 400 hp engine under the hood. The Explorer ST-Line is powered by a 2.3-liter EcBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower, that’s mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The ST-Line looks similar to the Explorer ST with its 20-inch wheels, blacked out grille, dual exhaust tips, black badging and blacked out headlights and taillights. Inside there are Ebony Black ActiveX-trimmed seats with Miko inserts, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and red accent stitching. A 12-speaker B&O sound system, wireless charging pad, auto-dimming rearview mirror and 360-degree camera are all available.

The good news is that the Explorer ST-Line starts $7,570 less than the Explorer ST and $2,575 less than the Explorer Enthusiast ST.

2022 Ford Explorer ST

Ford has also announced that the Explorer ST now comes standard with rear-wheel drive, while four-wheel drive will now be optional.

“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.”

Lastly the Explorer King Rang and Explorer Platinum models now comes standard with 400 hp and there’s a new Technology Package that adds a 10.1-inch touch screen, multicontour seats and 14-speaker B&O sound system. The 2022 Explorer is also available in two new colors: Stone Blue and Burgundy Velvet.