2023 Ford Explorer Review

A standard turbo four, turbo V6, and hybrid V6 are on the menu. The standard engine creates 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Auto start-stop technology can improve fuel economy in stop-and-go city driving.

The hybrid V6 edition generates a healthy 318 horsepower. Standard on the ST, the turbocharged V6 kicks out 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.

With the turbo 4 engine, the Explorer tows up to 5,300 pounds. The high-output turbo V6 can tow 5,600 pounds. The Hybrid Ford SUV can tow 5,000 pounds, demonstrating that every Explorer is ready for your big adventure tows.

Rear-wheel drive is standard, and the rear-wheel platform makes loading and unloading easier. It also assists with towing. A 10-speed automatic transmission has been tuned for the Explorer. Driving enthusiasts may notice that this is similar to the 10-speed automatic developed for Ford pickups.

The most affordable Explorer is the base edition, and it is well-equipped to take care of the driver and passengers. The exterior boasts LED headlights and 18-inch lightweight alloy wheels. A power liftgate is standard for easy cargo access.

In the cockpit, there’s a power-adjustable driver’s chair and an 8-inch infotainment display. This touch screen has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for easy smartphone integration. WiFi access is available through FordPass Connect. Drivers will appreciate a remote engine starter, which is available via the FordPass App.

Passengers will appreciate the tri-zone automatic climate controls that help keep the 2nd and 3rd row passengers cooler in our hot Phoenix AZ summers. There are extensive safety features and driver assistance systems as well.

Exterior colors include fun shades of Forged Green and Stone Blue. There are metallics in Rapid Red, Star White and Jewel Red. Additional choices include Iconic Silver, Agate Black, and Carbonized Gray.

XLT Models offer a choice of ActiveX upholstery. Colors include an ebony upholstery with light slate inserts and darker slate stitching. Front-row passengers enjoy a power-adjustable chair similar to the drivers’. As a 7-seat model, it has middle-row captain’s chairs.

New tech aspects include push button start, advanced keyless access, and additional USB ports for the second row. Ready for bad weather, the XLT model has extras like heated exterior mirrors and heated front seats. Additional utility features include standard roof rails.

An XLT Sport Appearance package adds carbonized gray wheels and other gray exterior elements. In keeping with Ford’s effort to make technology available to more people, you can upgrade with the CoPilot360 Assist+ package. An XLT Tech package adds power-fold side mirrors and the 12-speaker premium sound system among other features.

All Explorer Ford SUVs have a terrain management system on both rear-wheel and four-wheel drive models. Trail mode works like off-road cruise control. The driver sets the speed, and the Ford SUV controls brakes and throttle while the driver steers. Slippery mode lowers throttle response to assist the driver on slippery roads or loose dirt.

Of greatest interest perhaps to Phoenix AZ off-roaders, the 4x4 model adds a deep snow/sand mode that is perfect for driving on soft, dry sand.

The most adventure-ready Explorer is the Timberline trim level. It has a limited-slip rear differential and all-terrain tires. There’s more ground clearance thanks to the off-road suspension. Ford provides steel underbody skid plates, built-in towing equipment, and factory-installed tow hooks. As for the interior, the upholstery is a premium leather-like cloth.

Intelligent four-wheel drive has hill descent control to keep the heavy Explorer SUV rolling at a safe speed downhill without stressing the transmission. It is easier than you think to get behind the wheel. Check out Earnhardt Ford financing for competitive loans and leases.

Building on XLT packaging, ST-Line cabins have an especially rich look with the combination of ActiveX upholstery and Miko inserts. Red stitching adds to the racy atmosphere. Features include Ford navigation system and ambient lighting.

ST-Line models are dressed for sport with their dark-tinted headlights, dark-tinted taillights, and machined-finish alloy wheels. Exterior extras include rain-sensing wipers and power-fold mirrors.

Rivaling the Limited models, ST trim levels have a high-output turbocharged V6 and quad exhaust outlets. Sport suspension tuning helps it respond appropriately to driver commands. Owners may take advantage of a trip to the ST SUV Experience Driving School.

The cockpit has a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a heated steering wheel, and sport-bolstered seats. Leather upholstery is dressed up with silver accent stitching and distinctive Miko inserts. Another choice adds Raptor Blue and Race Red accent stitching for even more color.

Offering luxury at a more reasonable price, the Explorer Limited is a handsome edition with 20-inch alloy wheels and handsome chrome trim elements. The cabin atmosphere is rich with real leather upholstery, micro-perforated seat inserts, and multi-color ambient lighting.

Drivers will love the ventilated front seats, and the kids will appreciate second-row sunshades. Second-row seats have power-heat for passengers and power-folding for utility.

With the hybrid powertrain, Limited models retain excellent towing capability. They can pull up to 5,000 pounds. The rate of torque makes it a good choice for off-roading.

For a completely different look, the King Ranch is a favorite among Ford fans. The wood trim, leather-wrapped soft-touch panels, and distinctive Del Rio leather make this cabin especially exciting. Lasso-perforated seat inserts add even more flair to the look. Other standards include the power-adjustable tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, hands-free liftgate, and power-folding third row.

Platinum models wear a satin aluminum grille and other elements that set it apart from the rest of the Explorer lineup. Leather upholstery with tri-diamond perforated inserts and exclusive wood trim elevate the interior.

The 8-inch touch screen can be upgraded to a 10.1-inch portrait touchscreen. This vertically mounted display acts even more like a tablet. It’s easier to use thanks to pinch-to-zoom capability and advanced voice recognition.

The audio system can be upgraded to either a 12-speaker or 14 speaker system by Bang and Olufsen. HD Radio is part of this system. Multicolor ambient lighting adds illumination to the front two rows. There are seven colors for the driver to choose from.

A twin-panel glass roof adds natural light to the interior. This feature is available on many trim levels.

Crashes are best avoided. That’s the theory behind the umbrella of CoPilot360 on the 2023 Ford Explorer. This includes blind spot monitoring, a rear cross traffic alert, and a lane keeper. A forward collision warning can trigger an emergency autobrake.

Standard on ST Line and up, Ford CoPilot360 Assist+offers even more important features, including adaptive cruise control. Lane keeping can assist with steering to ensure it is centered in the lane lines. Evasive Steering Assist is added to the forward collision mitigation system.

Check out the Explorer inventory at your Earnhardt Ford dealer. Be in touch with your questions or stop by to take a test drive. Hands-on research is always the most fun.