The Ford Explorer has been a favorite of families and adventurers since the 1990s. Stylish, yet rugged when it needs to be, it's a consistently popular option among SUV enthusiasts. While the Explorer saw some changes in 2023, let's look at how the latest model stacks up!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The 2024 Explorer has not changed much since 2023, although bigger changes are expected in 2025.
- The Ford Explorer has eight trim packages with two engine options.
- Ford’s signature AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control makes it safer to tow more weight.
With the exception of one item, there are no major changes from last year's line—in fact, both model years are almost identical. Both boast the classic Explorer body and grille that aficionados have come to know and love. Different trim groups offer different aesthetics. Lower level trims (like the Base, XLT, ST-Line) are more simplistic and practical, while mid-level trims exude a more outdoorsy and rugged vibe (Timberline, ST). At the high end (Limited, King Ranch, Platinum) luxury is the focal point.
That one item that’s changed? Ford has discontinued the previously available hybrid powertrain from the line up—the Explorer is otherwise the same as it was the last two years. But expect some big changes in 2025.
Current trim-levels and starting MSRPs are:
- Base: $38,000
- XLT: $38,670
- ST-Line: $46,445
- Limited: $47,520
- Timberline: $49,430
- ST: $50,105
- King Ranch: $54,625
- Platinum: $54,770
Engine Power and Towing Capacity
The 2023 and 2024 models both offer the same two engine options. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 packs a punch with 300 ponies and 310 lb-ft of torque when matched with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and a 10-speed automatic transmission. If you want a bit more power, higher trims come standard with all-wheel drive (AWD) and a 3.0L EcoBoost V6, which crushes the competition with 400-horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
The Ford Explorer is a towing beast with a 5,600-pound max capacity when using the proper equipment and configurations. Add Ford’s AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control to the mix and you’ll feel even more comfortable when hauling large loads.
When it comes to fuel economy the Explorer’s not too shabby in that department either—it gets 21 MPG/city and 28 MPG/highway.
Interior Space for Days
The Ford Explorer has all the creature comforts any driver or passenger can dream up. The interior design from previous incarnations is also maintained here. The cabins are amply-spaced for passengers with three rows of seats (though the third row can be a bit tight for taller occupants.) The PowerFold third-row seats can be flattened at the push of a button to extend cargo space when needed.
Heated and power-adjustable front seats, optional second-row captain chairs and an ample 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row are consistent factors in Explorer’s spaciousness.
An Impressive Infotainment System
The Explorer has maintained its tech wizardry from ‘23. The base model has a 4.5-inch gauge cluster display, but that jumps up to 6.5-inches in higher trims. The highest trim levels have a 12.3-inch all-digital display. When it comes to the Explorer’s infotainment system, an 8.0-inch touchscreen is standard. Higher trims feature a 10.1-inch portrait-oriented screen.
All trims come standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, front-row USB ports, auto-dimming rearview mirrors and a surround-view camera. A wireless charging pad and second-row USB ports are not available for the base trim, but are standard to higher trims. A 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo is standard (with the exception of in the base model) but can be upgraded to 14 speakers.
The SUV For You
Both Ford Explorer model years check all the boxes with better fuel efficiency, reliability and comfort. But there is only one way to find out which Explorer is best for you—stop by Cogswell Ford and test drive this classic and versatile SUV today!