2021 Ford Explorer Review

Explorer Cabin Space and Comfort

The Explorer has space for seven people in its standard configuration. If you prefer the available captain’s chairs to a bench seat, you can swap the second row and have a capacity of six passengers. All three rows have ample support and comfort, as well as headroom and legroom for passengers. It also comes standard with the tri-zone automatic climate control system. Several features are available to enhance the interior, such as a twin-panel moonroof, leather upholstery, and heated, cooled, and massaging front seats.

The cargo capacity of the Explorer is among the best in the class. With all three rows upright, the cargo capacity is 18.2 cubic feet of space. With the third row folded flat, the capacity is nearly 48 cubic feet. With both rows folded, the capacity is nearly 88 cubic feet. The cabin has plenty of interior storage cubbies and bins as well.

Explorer Performance

The base engine for the Explorer is a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that makes 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The optional engine is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine with the Platinum and ST models. This makes 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque in the Paltinum, while the ST gets 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.

The Explorer has lively acceleration, athletic performance, and comfortable ride quality. The well-weighted steering ensures the ride is balanced and composed, and the Explorer glides over road imperfections. Rear-wheel drive is standard. All-wheel drive is standard for the Platinum and ST trims, but optional for the others. When rightly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds.

Explorer Features

The Explorer is well equipped at the base level. The standard SYNC® 3 infotainment interface offers a bevy of tech features for entertainment and information. The system uses a sharp 8-inch touchscreen as standard equipment, but a 10.1-inch touchscreen is available. Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® are also standard, giving you the option to access your phone for music and other media. Numerous tech features are available, such as a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, wireless device charging, and a rear-seat entertainment system to keep the kids entertained on long rides.

Plenty of safety features are standard for the Explorer, such as blind-spot monitoring, a feature that alerts you if there’s a vehicle in your way when switching lanes or reversing. Forward-collision warning is also standard, which forewarns you of potential front collisions and automatically applies the brakes. Adaptive cruise control, a feature that alters your cruising speed to remain with the movement of traffic, is optional.