Overview
The 2024 Ford Explorer, with its starting price of $36,760, maintains its reputation as a top contender in the midsize 3-row SUV segment, appealing to drivers who prioritize performance, aesthetics, and safety. With seating for seven in its base trim, the Explorer impresses with its robust engine options, formidable towing capacity, and dynamic driving experience. Notably, it has earned recognition for safety, receiving the prestigious Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and offering Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced safety features. Its striking design sets it apart, exuding a sense of dominance among its competitors in any parking lot.
What’s New for 2024?
Although there were initial speculations about substantial changes coming to the 2024 Ford Explorer, the model arrives at dealer showrooms without any revisions. However, Ford has plans for a significant overhaul for the 2025 model. Notably, the hybrid powertrain option for the Explorer has been discontinued for the 2024 model year.
2024 Ford Explorer Models and Pricing
The 2024 Ford Explorer kicks off at $36,760 for its base trim featuring rear-wheel drive, a price point that falls within the average range for midsize 3-row SUVs. Compared to competitors like the Kia Telluride, it’s slightly more expensive, while it’s a tad more affordable than the Subaru Ascent. The rugged Timberline variant, tailored for off-road adventures, includes all-wheel drive as standard. For other trims in the Explorer’s 7-tier lineup, adding all-wheel drive costs approximately $2,000. At the top end, the Platinum grade commands $54,670. Positioned within Ford’s SUV lineup, the Explorer sits between the smaller Escape ($28,000) and the larger Expedition ($55,525). We recommend opting for the XLT trim when considering an Explorer purchase. Despite the base model offering numerous options and packages, the XLT, with its slight price increment, provides an array of standard features such as proximity keyless entry with push-button start, heated outboard mirrors, heated front seats, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, making it a worthwhile investment.
| 2024 Ford Explorer | MSRP |
| Explorer (base model) | $36,760 |
| Explorer XLT | $38,570 |
| Explorer ST-Line | $46,355 |
| Explorer Timberline | $49,330 |
| Explorer ST | $50,005 |
| Explorer King Ranch | $54,525 |
| Explorer Platinum | $54,670 |
Family-Friendly Cabin
In its base configuration, the Explorer can comfortably seat seven passengers and boasts an impressive array of 10 cup holders, ensuring everyone’s beverages are within reach.
However, the second-row seating configuration varies; while the base model features a 3-position bench, the XLT trim replaces it with a pair of captain’s chairs, reducing the seating capacity to six.
These captain’s chairs not only enhance access to the third row but also offer flexibility by sliding forward to increase third-row space or sliding back to provide ample legroom in the second row, measuring at a comfortable 39 inches. Yet, compared to competitors like Kia and Hyundai, the Explorer falls slightly short in second-row legroom.
On the flip side, life in the third row may be less comfortable, with lower-set cushions and 32 inches of legroom, making it more suitable for younger or smaller passengers.
Additionally, the cargo area behind the third row offers 18.2 cubic feet of space, expanding to 87.8 cubic feet with both rows folded down, typical figures for its class. However, some criticism arises regarding the cabin materials, as both reviewers and readers have noted a perceived lack of quality in this aspect.
Tough-Looking Design
The exterior design of the Ford Explorer earns praise for its bold and robust appearance, striking a balance between sportiness and ruggedness.
Its muscular lines exude a sense of toughness, giving the Explorer a commanding presence on the road.
The overall aesthetic projects an image of strength and capability, resonating with those seeking a vehicle that can handle various terrains and tasks with confidence.
Specifications
| Fuel Economy | City 21 mpg/Hwy 28 mpg/Comb 24 mpg |
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Basic Warranty | 3 years or 36000 miles |
| Max Seating | 7 |
| Horsepower | 300 @ 5500 RPM |
| Cargo Space | 87.8 cu.ft. |
Dimensions, Weights & Capacities
| Curb Weight | 4345 lbs. |
| EPA Passenger | 152.7 cu.ft. |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.9 gallons |
| Front Head Room | 40.7 inches |
| Front Leg Room | 43.0 inches |
| Max Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Minimum Ground Clearance | 7.9 inches |
| Overall Length | 198.8 inches |
| Front Shoulder Room | 61.8 inches |
| Towing Capacity, Maximum | 5300 lbs. |
| Trunk or Cargo Capacity | 87.8 cu.ft. |
| Turning Diameter | 38.7 feet |
| Wheel Base | 119.1 inches |
| Width with mirrors | 89.3 inches |
Fuel Economy
| City | 21 mpg |
| Highway | 28 mpg |
| Combined | 24 mpg |
Mechanical
| Drivetrain | RWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| 10 speed | Available |
| Recommended Fuel | Regular |
| Hill Start Assist | Available |
Performance
| Horsepower | 300 @ 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 @ 3500 rpm |
| Engine | 4-Cyl, EcoBoost, Turbo, 2.3 Liter |
Entertainment
- MP3 Player
- Satellite Radio
Seating
- Third Row Seat
- Folding Rear Seat
- Cloth Seats
- Power Driver’s Seat
Technology
- Cruise Control
- Hands Free Phone
- Remote Keyless Entry
- Internet Access
- Smartphone Interface
- Touch Screen Monitor
- USB Port
- Voice Recognition System