Does the 2021 Ford Explorer need premium gas?
Yes. Premium.
$313extra a year
- Premium listed for the AWD.
- Premium: 5 of 8 trims. Regular: 3 of 8 trims.
- Required or only recommended: the data does not say.
- 50% of 134 SUVs (2021) list premium.
12,000 miles a year. Gas $3.20. Premium $0.60 more.
| Trim | Engine | Grade | Mpg | Regular, a year | Premium, a year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AWD | 2.3L | Premium | 23 | $1,670 | $1,983 |
| XLT RWD | 2.3L | Premium | 24 | $1,600 | $1,900 |
| Limited RWD | 2.3L | Premium | 24 | $1,600 | $1,900 |
| Limited HEV 4WD | 3.3L 6cyl | Regular | 25 | $1,536 | $1,824 |
| King Ranch RWD | 3.0L | Premium | 20 | $1,920 | $2,280 |
| Platinum RWD | 3.0L | Premium | 20 | $1,920 | $2,280 |
| Platinum 4WD | 3.3L | Regular | 25 | $1,536 | $1,824 |
| Platinum HEV 4WD | 3.3L 6cyl | Regular | 25 | $1,536 | $1,824 |
Rivals
| Car | Cheapest trim | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 Ford Explorer | AWD | Premium |
| 2021 Ford Expedition | XL 4x2 | Premium |
| 2021 Chevrolet Traverse | L FWD | Regular |
| 2021 Honda Pilot | LX 2WD | Regular |
| 2021 Toyota Highlander | L FWD | Regular |
| 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee | Freedom 4x2 | Regular |
What this cannot tell you
Check the fuel door or manual before you fill.
Gas prices and the premium gap change by state.
- 2 or more sources
- 1 source
- Model-level, rule or estimate
- Sources disagree