Overview
The 2024 Ford Explorer, a midsize 3-row SUV, impresses with its remarkable acceleration, towing capacity, and overall performance, appealing to owners who value strength, style, and safety. With seating for seven in its base trim, the Explorer boasts robust engine power, impressive towing capabilities, and agile driving dynamics. It has garnered recognition for its safety features, earning the prestigious Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and offering Ford’s advanced Co-Pilot360 safety technology suite. Additionally, its bold and stylish design sets it apart from its competitors, making it a standout choice in its segment.
What’s New for 2024?
Contrary to early speculations about significant updates, the 2024 Ford Explorer arrives at dealer lots without any changes. However, a major overhaul is anticipated for the 2025 model year. Notably, Ford has opted to discontinue the Explorer’s hybrid powertrain for 2024.
2024 Ford Explorer Models and Pricing
The 2024 Ford Explorer starts at $36,760 for the base trim with rear-wheel drive, on par with similar midsize 3-row SUVs. The off-road-focused Timberline comes standard with all-wheel drive, adding about $2,000 to other trims’ costs. The top-tier Platinum grade is priced at $54,670. We recommend the XLT trim, offering great value with standard features like keyless entry, heated mirrors and seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
| 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 |
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Base, XLT, and Limited trims of the 2024 Ford Explorer are equipped with a 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, providing ample power for most needs. In our tests, a Timberline model with this engine reached 60 mph in 6.0 seconds. For those craving more power, options like the King Ranch, Platinum, or ST models offer a 400-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine. Unfortunately, the hybrid variant introduced in 2020 has been discontinued for 2024. All models come with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and while the Explorer’s ride and handling are smooth and composed, enthusiasts may find the Explorer ST more engaging with its stiffer suspension and extra power. Additionally, when properly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to 5600 pounds.
Fuel Economy
With a combined rating of 24 mpg in city and highway driving, the Ford Explorer ranks among the top in its class for gas-only models when equipped with rear-wheel drive. Opting for all-wheel drive reduces the combined figure slightly to 23 mpg. Models with the V6 engine achieve 21 mpg with rear-wheel drive and 20 mpg with all-wheel drive. For further fuel economy details, visit the EPA website.
Family-Friendly Cabin
The base Explorer comfortably seats seven passengers and boasts 10 cup holders, catering to those who like to keep their beverages handy. In the XLT trim, the second-row bench is replaced by captain’s chairs, reducing seating to six but enhancing access to the third row.
These chairs are adjustable, providing flexibility for passengers and creating a spacious 39 inches of second-row legroom when needed. The third row offers less comfort, with low-set cushions and 32 inches of legroom, making it more suitable for younger passengers.
Cargo space behind the third row measures 18.2 cubic feet, expanding to 87.8 cubic feet with both rear rows folded down, which is average for the class.
Despite these practical features, criticisms arise regarding the cabin material quality, a sentiment echoed by some readers.
Tough-Looking Design
The exterior design of the Ford Explorer commands attention with its bold and robust presence. From its muscular stance to its athletic lines, the Explorer exudes a sense of ruggedness and sportiness simultaneously.
Its chiseled contours and commanding grille contribute to its unmistakable identity on the road, making it stand out among its peers in the SUV segment.
Whether navigating city streets or tackling off-road adventures, the Explorer’s exterior design embodies strength and durability, reflecting its capability to handle a variety of driving conditions with confidence and style.
3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty
Like many other mainstream automakers, Ford offers the standard industry warranty for the Explorer, covering bumper-to-bumper limited warranty for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Additionally, the Explorer comes with the typical limited powertrain warranty, providing coverage for five years or 60,000 miles.
Safety Ratings
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has bestowed upon the Explorer its highest overall safety rating of 5 Stars. Furthermore, the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety has not only awarded the Explorer with its top score of Good in every one of its crash tests but has also included it in its prestigious Top Safety Pick list. The Ford Explorer comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assist technologies, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, high-beam assist, rear-park assist, and more.
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 |
Technology
- Cruise Control
- Hands Free Phone
- Remote Keyless Entry
- Internet Access
- Smartphone Interface
- Touch Screen Monitor
- USB Port
- Voice Recognition System