The 2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch is expected to debut this week, adding a dose of southern chic to the three-row SUV lineup. It will be the fourth nameplate to add the King Ranch trim level, following the F-150 King Ranch, Super Duty King Ranch, and Expedition King Ranch.
Expect a consistent theme in the 2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch as seen in the other models. This includes full-grain saddle-brown leather seats and accents, signature details, and some unique exterior touches. Mechanically, the King Ranch package has not traditionally changed anything.
On the technology side, we don’t expect any big debuts with the King Ranch trim, but we do expect it to offer a full suite of content standard, such as Ford Co-Pilot360, along with a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Being that the King Ranch is premium trim level, expect up-level powertrain options, such as the 365 hp 3.0L EcoBoost V6 in the Explorer Platinum, the 400 hp 3.0L EcoBoost V6 found in the Explorer ST, or the electrified 318 horsepower 3.3L V6 in the Explorer Hybrid. All power is sent to the wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission, configured with a rotary dial on the center console.
In the trim level hierarchy, the King Ranch trim level tends to sit just under the Platinum trim level, as seen with the 2021 Ford F-150. Look for the same when it comes to the Ford Explorer King Ranch when pricing is announced.
Following the debut of the 2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch, look for the more off-road-ready Explorer Timberline, which is set to go toe-to-toe with the all-new WL Jeep Grand Cherokee.