Ford Explorer at a Glance
What's in a name? If you're talking about the latest model year of the Ford Explorer, quite a lot. With its 5-trim lineup, this family-friendly SUV continues to raise the bar, explore boundaries, and shatter limitations.
Read this review by the team at Willowbrook Ford to find out why the Ford Explorer continues to be a popular choice for drivers in Willowbrook, Burr Ridge, and Darien, IL and has been named America's all-time best-selling SUV.*
Key Takeaways
- Eight seats across three rows pair with 16.3 cubic feet behind the back row, so passengers and gear both get their space on a full-house road trip.
- Available BlueCruise takes over the accelerating, braking, and steering on more than 130,000 miles of North American highways, turning long stretches behind the wheel into hands-free time.
- Trail-ready hardware sets the Tremor trim apart, from standard intelligent 4WD and front and rear underbody protection to a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle that keeps the Explorer moving over rutted ground.
Ford Explorer vs. The Competition
At a Glance: Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse
At a Glance: Ford Explorer vs. Chevy Traverse
Part of selecting the right SUV is being able to explore various possibilities. Whether it's the number of drivetrains or multiple engines a model offers, you benefit from having the power of choice. When one of those options also provides more power, as is the case with the Ford Explorer, it's a win-win.
Quick Facts
| Explorer | vs. | Traverse |
|---|---|---|
| Available | 4-WHEEL DRIVE | Not Offered |
| 2 | ENGINE OPTIONS | 1 |
| 385 HP | MAX HORSEPOWER | 328 HP |
At a Glance: Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander
At a Glance: Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander
SUVs like the Ford Explorer and the Toyota Highlander are designed for adventures beyond the asphalt. That said, only one model provides the necessary components without an upgrade to ensure you can move forward without hesitation. Regardless of trim level, this Ford is equipped to explore the highlands, the lowlands, and every place in between. **
Quick Facts
| Explorer | vs. | Highlander |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | STANDARD DRIVE MODES | 4 |
| Standard | FRONT SKID PLATE | Not Offered |
| 8.7 in. | MAXIMUM GROUND CLEARANCE | 8 in. |
At a Glance: Ford Explorer vs. Kia Telluride
At a Glance: Ford Explorer vs. Kia Telluride
Like Ford with the Explorer, Kia continues to update the Telluride. Still, the Ford Explorer goes the extra mile when it comes to comfort and convenience, making every mile more enjoyable for both the driver and everyone on board.
Quick Facts
| Explorer | vs. | Telluride |
|---|---|---|
| 10-way power-adjustable | STANDARD DRIVER'S SEAT | 6-way manual |
| Standard | HEATED FRONT SEATS | Available |
| Available | HANDS-FREE DRIVING | Not Available |
Shoppers who come in for the Explorer are usually thinking about the whole family, and it wins them over once they see the third row fits adults comfortably with cargo room still behind it. Those who take the Explorer onto a rough back road are quick to decide, since it drives like an everyday SUV until they ask more of it.
Get to Know the Latest Ford Explorer
Can the Ford Explorer handle off-roading?
The Explorer lives up to its name, especially the Tremor trim, which comes with standard intelligent 4WD, an off-road-tuned suspension, front and rear underbody protection, and a Torsen® limited-slip rear axle. Point it down a washed-out road or a rutted trail to the campsite and it handles the rough stuff as easily as an open highway.
Pick Your Power
The Ford Explorer offers two powertrain options, ranging in performance output, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque |
|---|---|---|
| 2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 engine (standard) | 300 HP | 310 lb-ft |
| 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine | 385 HP | 415 lb-ft |
Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which offers fast acceleration, smooth shifting, and efficient operation. Available paddle shifters put the control firmly in your own hands.
The Explorer comes standard with rear-wheel drive, which provides balanced handling, improved traction, and greater stability. The available intelligent 4-wheel drive (4WD) sends torque to the wheels as needed. Meanwhile, the standard Terrain Management System™ optimizes performance regardless of conditions.
Take It All (On)
With its six standard Selectable Drive Modes, you can adjust your Explorer's traction and stability control, steering feel, and transmission shift points:
- Normal
- Eco
- Sport
- Tow/Haul
- Slippery
- Trail
Select a mode to match conditions or your preferred driving experience as you traverse farther with the Ford Explorer.
As Ford's most capable off-road Explorer yet, the Tremor is built for those who crave adventure off the beaten path. It pairs raw power with precision engineering so you can confidently tackle rugged trails, winding backroads, or wherever curiosity takes you. With the Tremor, every journey becomes an invitation to explore without limits.
When you're ready to pack up the family or your friends and head out into nature, hitch up a camper or fishing boat—with its standard Class III Trailer Tow Package, the Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds. Standard Trailer Sway Control ensures you remain in charge. Meanwhile, a standard front skid plate (rear skid plates are also available) allows you to head boldly off the pavement and into the rough terrain.
How much room does the Ford Explorer have?
Three rows seat up to eight, with 150.3 cubic feet of passenger volume, so adults in back get real legroom. Even with every seat full, 16.3 cubic feet handles groceries, backpacks, and sports gear. Fold the rear rows and you open up 85.8 cubic feet for bulkier hauls like moving boxes or a bike.
Bold Exterior
The Ford Explorer is a head-turner and attention-grabber. Its low center of gravity and large grille—unique to each trim—reflects its fearless attitude and your thrill-seeking personality. Sleek LED headlamps and taillamps frame the front and rear fascia, ensuring you can see and be seen.
Choose from eight wheel styles, ranging from 18 to 21 inches in various shades and finishes, including Magnetite- and Luster Nickel-painted aluminum wheels. Additional exterior options include the distinctive Vapor Blue, vibrant Ruby Red, or Space White Metallic paint, featuring a silver-gray undertone and a black-painted roof.
Refined Interior
Once you step inside, you'll immediately notice the pushed-forward dash that opens up the cabin. The Explorer offers a range of interior color schemes and features premium materials, including wrap-and-stitch soft-touch surfaces and optional ActiveX™ or leather seating. Choose from multiple packages and multicolor ambient lighting to personalize the interior to your specific tastes.
Comfort is assured for everyone on board, thanks to these standard features: heated seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control. Your passengers can take their seats in the second-row Captain's Chairs with E-Z Entry or on the third-row 50/50 split-fold bench. As the driver, you can further enhance your comfort with available Multicontour Seats with Active Motion® massage and a heated steering wheel.
What's included in the Ford Security Package?
The Ford Security Package covers theft alerts, start inhibit (which lets you remotely lock down your Explorer if your key goes missing), and Stolen Vehicle Services. Every Explorer comes with a one-year trial, and you can keep it going afterward with a one-time purchase for unlimited service.
Next-Level Infotainment
Standard on all Explorers, the Ford Digital Experience expands your connections and customization options by including:
- 13.2-inch center display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™
- Google Assistant/Google Maps/Google Play™
- 5G connectivity
You'll also enjoy a built-in Wi-Fi® hotspot for up to 10 devices. Everyone on board will have easy access to a variety of apps, maps, music, and other entertainment options. Send a text, make a call, or change the climate with a simple voice command.
Every road trip needs a soundtrack. Cue up your favorite adventure-worthy playlist through the available B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 10 or 14 speakers. You can cruise down the highway to some smooth jazz or chill lo-fi or rock out while you head off-road and take on, well, rocks.
Advanced Driver Assistance
Safety is your priority whenever you take the wheel. It's Ford's prime concern, too, which is why they incorporate the Ford Co-Pilot360® suite of driver-assistance technologies into their models, including the Ford Explorer. Among these protective features are:
- BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross Traffic Alert
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go
- Lane-Keeping System
- Auto High-Beam Headlamps
Select models of the Ford Explorer offer available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving, which includes an Automatic Lane Change feature. Take a break from fully hands-on driving while your Explorer handles the accelerating, braking, steering, and lane centering on over 130,000 miles of roads across North America.
Venture Forth with the Ford Explorer
What would you call the all-time best-selling family SUV that handles off-road adventures equally as well as everyday driving near Willowbrook, Burr Ridge, and Darien, IL? Ford calls it the Explorer; by now, you may want to call it yours.
To make that happen, contact Willowbrook Ford to get behind the wheel and start exploring more of your world today.
Step into a New Ford Explorer
Explore our extensive new inventory, receive an estimate on your trade-in, apply for credit or contact us to schedule your in-person test drive using the quick links here.
* Based on S&P Global Mobility 1946-Current US Total New Cumulative Registrations, for all vehicles identified as SUVs.
** Most accurate information used at the time of posting.