2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Ford Expedition

Although each vehicle proudly wears the Ford badge and has the option for three rows of seats, there are still many differences between these two large SUVs.

For customers that are serious about buying their next 3-row Ford and want to know the technical differences between each model, check out our in-depth comparison below.

1. An Overview of the Explorer vs Expedition

   For those unfamiliar with these models, the Expedition is a noticeably larger and longer vehicle. It comes with 5 trim options: XL STX, XLT, Timberline, King Ranch, and Platinum. A great perk of the Ford Expedition is that it comes with a MAX option for the higher trim levels, which is even longer than the traditional Expedition.

   The Ford Explorer is smaller than the Expedition but still can seat 7 passengers. It is also the more customizable SUV with 8 trim options: Base, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum.

   Even the base model has a plethora of standard features, helping customers on a budget stay within a price they feel good about. The higher trim levels each have their own style, from luxury, to sporty, to country, and more.

2. Different Sizes

   As noted before, the Explorer is the smaller and more customizable cousin of the hearty Expedition. Even though the Explorer is smaller, it still has plenty of headroom and legroom for a comfortable ride.

   

   For large families that need extra space for carpooling, luggage, and utility work, check out the Expedition. It has at least 2 more inches of head and legroom compared to the Explorer.

   As far as passenger volume goes, the Explorer has 152.7 cubic feet of people room, and the Expedition and Expedition MAX have about 172 cubic feet of space.

3. Cargo Area

   Some customers don’t necessarily need to worry about passenger space but have a more significant need for cargo storage. Ford has you covered with power-fold seats and a power liftgate for both lineups.

   

   The Explorer has 18.2 cubic feet of storage space behind the third row and the Expedition has 19.3 cubic feet. The Expedition MAX has an impressive 34.3 cubic feet of storage behind the third row, nearly double that of the Explorer

4. Different Performance Options

   Ford has a wide array of engine options, making a vehicle curated for your needs. Whether you are in need of a large SUV that's powerful for towing or a vehicle fuel efficient for daily errands, you are covered with the Explorer and Expedition lineups.

   

   Family comes first for Ford. This means finding the most efficient choice for family rides. The Explorer SUV has the most efficient fuel economy. It provides three options: a 2.3-liter Ecoboost, a 3-liter V6, and a 3.3-liter hybrid option.

   All of Ford’s large SUV models have rear wheel drive as standard but have the option for all wheel drive. Plus, the 2023 Explorer has a hybrid option available in higher trim levels. This makes the Explorer the perfect transition vehicle if you are wanting to try out a hybrid.

   However, the Expedition is the more powerful vehicle. In higher trim levels, the Expedition hosts 400 horses behind the wheel. This is a twin-turbo vehicle that can generate up to 510 lb-ft of torque.

   Plus, if the correct packages or trim level is chosen, the 2023 Expedition can pull up to 9,000 pounds! If big-time towing and exciting performance are your priorities, the Expedition or Expedition MAX are the right choice.

5. Different Trim Levels

   There are so many Expedition and Explorer options to choose from! If you want a luxury vehicle, check out the King Ranch, Timberline, or Platinum trims available for Expedition and Explorer vehicles. If you’re all in for Ford’s reliability but are on a bit of a budget, the Explorer has fantastic standard features for its base model.

   The base 2023 Explorer has 8 cloth seats, rear parking sensors, a power liftgate, and an 8-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included for greater smartphone connectivity.

   Ford’s terrific Terrain Management System is a valuable standard. You can switch your vehicle from 2WD to Intelligent 4WD for different terrains. There are also seven drive modes which include Normal, Trail, Deep Snow/Sand, Slippery, Sport, Tow, and Eco Mode which help with fuel economy. This model has an MSRP of nearly $37,000.

   The Expedition XL STX is the base model and is a bit more pricey than the Explorer thanks to its extra cargo compatibility, 12-inch horizontal touchscreen, and interior gadgets. The base model has 5 passenger seating, perfect for a smaller family ready for adventure. The outside is just as gorgeous as the inside, leaving many buyers feeling no need to choose a higher trim.

   In tailored Ford fashion, the Expedition and Explorer have 14 trim options combined. The King Ranch is one luxury trim available for both vehicle models. It sports a brown leather interior with Western-style details and authentic wood accents.

   For customers that are off-road enthusiasts, the Timberline trim is a favorite for both the Expedition and Explorer. The vehicle is equipped with an underbody skid plate to protect the SUV and is available in AWD only. For those looking for true luxury, a Platinum trim is available for the Explorer and Expedition.

6. Different Ways To Organize Interior Room

   Both of these vehicles are excellent family rides. The Expedition comes with a cargo storage net to keep your belongings organized, while the Explorer makes great use of its over 150 cubic feet of passenger storage.

   Both of these large SUVs are fully equipped for family duty. LATCH attachments, which stand for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children, allow easy access for car seat installment, making each model great for carpooling or family road trips.

   Speaking of family road trips, both the Explorer and Expedition are ready with a very long list of safety standards. This includes the SOS Post-Crash Alert System to reach out for help when you can’t. In addition to a driver’s knee airbag, these large rigs have a Front Passenger Knee Airbag. For your convenience, both vehicles have Belt-Minder which chimes when safety belts are unlocked.

7. Different Towing Options

   Family matters, but so does having sufficient power for the activities you love. Ford has combined the two with its impressive towing aids, letting your Expedition or Explorer tow 4-wheel toys, boats, and more.

   

   If your 2023 Explorer is purchased with the Class IV Trailer Tow Package, it can haul up to 5,600 lbs. Conversely, if you add on the Heavy-Duty Tow Package for the Expedition, you can expect your large SUV to haul up an amazing 9,300 lbs! For standard vehicles, the Expedition can still tow 6,000 lbs.

Conclusion

Are you interested in checking out the differences between the Explorer and Expedition in person?

The most effective comparison is done in person at Earnhardt Ford dealership. Why not schedule a test drive?