FORD EXPLORER: Practical and spacious, the Explorer is a middle-of-the-road mid-sized SUV.
PROS:
CONS: The interior has cheap materials; the third row doesn't accommodate adults; and trims quickly get pricy.
VERDICT: The Explorer receives an average rating when compared to other mid-sized SUVs.
Does it have any competitors or rivals?
Jeep Grand Cherokee, Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, and Hyundai Palisade
What’s interesting about the Explorer?
- All trims come equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but a hybrid V6 is also available.
Many safety and tech options are available, especially if you opt for a high-end trim.
- The second row is comfortable captain's chairs (except for the base trim), and the third row offers a 50/50-split fold for easy loading.
- Rear-wheel drive and a ten-speed automatic transmission come standard (except the Timberline), but 4WD is also available.
How about the prices and trims?
Eight trims are available this year, including the all-new ST-Line trim, which has a mild sporty feel to it. The base trim, Explorer, starts at $33,745, while the high-end King Ranch reaches nearly $54,000. These significant price jumps prompt us to rank similar models in this segment higher than the Explorer.
Unlike other Ford vehicles that offer many trim levels, the divisions between Explorer versions seem more clear-cut. The base trim and XLT remain basic: if you're looking for a spacious SUV without too many features, that's the one to pick. ST-Line provides a slightly sportier driving experience, while Limited has many features busy commuters and families need to get through the day. Off-roading capabilities are available with Timberline, and ST adds touches of athleticism. Both the Platinum and King Ranch get equipped with a 400-horsepower engine and a longer list of features. Platinum's engine is also a hybrid.
Which one do we recommend?
If you're going to get an Explorer, we recommend the Limited trim. It's tempting to go for a cheaper one since the interior styling isn't anything to brag about to your friends. More comfort features become available with this trim, such as a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel, a wireless charging pad, and leather upholstery.
What about its availability?
Explorer models are widely available at Ford dealerships across the nation. Get in touch with your local Ford dealer to find out what's available on their lot for you to test drive.
What about its performance and handling?
- Three engines are available, but each gets tied to a specific trim level.
- The Explorer offers a towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds when correctly equipped.
- Rear-wheel drive and a ten-speed automatic transmission come standard, but all-wheel drive is available for drivers that want it.
- The ST trim (don't confuse it with the ST-Line trim) comes with a robust engine and a stiff suspension that gives the Explorer performance-level capabilities.
A 300-horsepower, four-cylinder engine comes standard on the base, XLT, Limited, and Timberline trims. Most families will appreciate fuel efficiency (average of 23 mpg) and smooth handling. However, if you want an SUV with some oomph, check out the 400-horsepower, twin-turbo V6 engine featured on the King Ranch and ST models. A hybrid version of this engine pushes 318 horsepower and comes standard on the Platinum trim. A hybrid engine is also an option for the Limited trim if you want additional prowess while minding your carbon footprint.
How’s the interior?
Cabin Space
Of course, the most appealing aspect of any mid-sized SUV is its spaciousness. Tall adults can stretch out in the first two rows, but the third row feels cramped, even for older kids. Typically, the second row consists of two captain's chairs, but an optional second-row bench is available for select trims. The third row consists of a 50/50-split-folding bench.
Throughout the cabin, drivers and passengers will find convenient storage spaces and various features to make their drive comfortable. Unfortunately, the practical elements of the interior don't allow for any style. Even the high-end trims don't offer the overall luxury other brands do, such as the Volkswagen Atlas. Still, if the ergonomic design is what you want, the Explorer is a solid choice.
Infotainment and connectivity
An eight-inch touchscreen displays Sync, Ford's infotainment system, paired with a Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and FordPass Connect, allowing drivers to control their Explorer through their phone. The base and XLT trims come with a six-speaker audio system, while the rest receive a 12- or 14-speaker system. USB charging ports get placed throughout the cabin, and a variety of options are available, such as a wireless charging pad, a vertical 10-inch screen, and rear entertainment programs.
LIKES: The larger audio system ensures everyone can hear music or podcasts with ease.
DISLIKES: Other models in Ford's lineup get equipped with Sync 3 or 4, which are far more intuitive than the standard Sync system.
How about the technology and features?
Safety programs such as lane-keeping assist with driver alert, a rearview camera, and remote start come standard. A 360-degree camera, a twin-panel moonroof, and various upholsteries are available as options. Ford offers a long list of optional packages to help drivers figure out which features to add to their Explorer. Bear in mind that those packages will increase your total cost quickly.
LIKES: Our choice trim, Limited, comes with a comprehensive set of safety programs since the Co-Pilot 360 Assist+ already comes standard. A keyless entry keypad gets included on most Explorer trims.
DISLIKES: If you plan on towing anything with the Explorer, you have to add the towing package.
Quick Quirks: Don't assume you need the V6 engine; the four-cylinder provides plenty of responsiveness, especially when hugging turns. The gaps in fuel efficiency in real-life (as opposed to EPA estimates) are smaller than you think. |
Some additional features:
- Tri-zone climate control comes standard across all trims, though cooling down on hot days may take a little longer than folks would like.
- The second row comes with an E-Z feature that allows you to folks over the chairs or bench with the pus of a button.
- Timberline comes equipped with a limited-slip differential, specialty-tuned shock absorbers, and other features to make it off-roading-ready.
How's the exterior?
Externally, the Explorer hasn't changed too much in the last few years, and why should it? This SUV looks durable, confident, and ready to haul your best friends or cargo for an adventure. High-end trims add stylized LED lights, accents, and 20- and 21-inch wheels. One of the optional features we would recommend is the hands-free, foot-activated liftgate for convenient loading and unloading.
What warranty and safety does it offer?
Shoppers can feel assured that Explorer models get equipped with a variety of safety features
and programs. However, the warranty program is minimal.
- The Explorer received consistent high ratings for safety.
- All trims include programs such as lane-keeping assistant, blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross-
traffic alert, forward-collision monitoring, and many more.
- Limited warranty for 36,000 miles or three years.
- Powertrain warranty for 60,000 miles or five years.
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance not included.
Are there any incentives and rebates for the Explorer?
Ford offers incentives to U.S. military personnel, veterans, college students, recent graduates, and first responders. Some franchise dealerships may offer additional incentives, rebates and manager's specials. Get in touch with your local Ford dealer to learn more.
