The 2024 Ford Explorer continues to uphold its legacy as a versatile and family-friendly midsize SUV, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and technology. With a range of trims and powertrains, the 2024 model caters to various preferences, from daily commuting to off-road adventures. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the key features, performance metrics, interior amenities, and overall value proposition of the 2024 Ford Explorer.
1. Introduction to the 2024 Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer has been a staple in the SUV market for decades, known for its spacious interior, robust performance, and adaptability. The 2024 iteration builds upon this foundation, introducing subtle refinements to enhance the driving experience. While the hybrid powertrain has been discontinued for this model year, the Explorer remains a formidable contender in the midsize SUV segment.
2. Performance and Engine Options
The 2024 Ford Explorer offers two primary engine configurations:
- 2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine: Standard across most trims, this engine delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offers both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. This setup provides a balanced mix of power and fuel efficiency, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for RWD models.
- 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6 Engine: Available in higher trims like the ST, King Ranch, and Platinum, this engine produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. It’s designed for those seeking enhanced towing capacity and performance, with a towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped.
Both engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth shifts and responsive acceleration. The Explorer’s handling is commendable for its class, offering a composed ride with minimal body roll.
3. Towing Capacity
The 2024 Ford Explorer stands out in its class with impressive towing capabilities:
- 2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine: Capable of towing up to 5,300 pounds when properly equipped.
- 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6 Engine: Offers a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds, making it suitable for hauling trailers, boats, or other heavy loads.
These towing capacities are competitive within the midsize SUV category, providing ample capability for various hauling needs.
4. Interior Comfort and Technology
The interior of the 2024 Ford Explorer is designed with both comfort and convenience in mind:
- Seating: Standard seating accommodates up to seven passengers, with available configurations offering seating for six. The front seats are supportive and offer heating and ventilation options. The second-row seats provide ample legroom, and the third row is suitable for children or smaller adults.
- Infotainment System: The Explorer comes equipped with Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Higher trims offer an upgraded 10.1-inch vertical touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
- Cargo Space: With all seats in use, the Explorer provides sufficient cargo space for everyday items. Folding down the third and second rows expands the cargo area, accommodating larger loads for trips or moving purposes.
- Climate Control: Standard tri-zone automatic climate control ensures all passengers can maintain their preferred temperature settings.
- Optional Features: Higher trims offer additional amenities such as a panoramic sunroof, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
5. Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Ford prioritizes safety in the 2024 Ford Explorer, equipping it with a suite of standard and available driver assistance features:
- Standard Features: Include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.
- Available Features: Adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, and enhanced park assist features are available on higher trims.
These features contribute to the Explorer’s strong safety profile, earning it high marks in crash tests and safety evaluations.
6. Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2024 Ford Explorer is available in several trims, each offering a distinct set of features and capabilities:
- Base: Starting at approximately $38,455, this trim includes essential features such as the 2.3L turbocharged engine, SYNC 3 infotainment system, and tri-zone climate control.
- XLT: Priced around $40,265, the XLT adds chrome exterior accents, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and additional USB ports.
- ST-Line: At about $48,050, this trim introduces sportier styling elements, including unique wheels and blacked-out exterior accents.
- Limited: Starting at $49,115, the Limited trim offers leather upholstery, a 12-speaker audio system, and advanced driver assistance features.
- Timberline: Priced at $51,025, the Timberline trim is tailored for off-road enthusiasts, featuring increased ground clearance, skid plates, and all-terrain tires.
- ST: At approximately $51,700, the ST trim focuses on performance, with the 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and distinctive styling cues.
- King Ranch: Starting at $54,625, the King Ranch trim offers luxury features such as premium leather upholstery, wood interior accents, and unique badging.
- Platinum: Priced around $56,365, the Platinum trim includes all available features, including the 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 engine, panoramic sunroof, and advanced technology features.
7. Driving Impressions
On the road, the 2024 Ford Explorer delivers a balanced driving experience. The base engine provides adequate power for daily driving, while the twin-turbo V6 offers robust acceleration and towing capabilities. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, and the available all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability in various driving conditions.
The Explorer’s handling is responsive, with precise steering and minimal body roll during cornering. The ride quality is generally comfortable, though some road imperfections may be more noticeable in higher trims with larger wheels.
8. Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency varies depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration:
- 2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine: EPA estimates are 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for RWD models, and 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for AWD models.
- 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6 Engine: EPA estimates are 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for RWD models, and 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway for AWD models.
These figures are competitive within the midsize SUV segment, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy.
9. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong engine options with impressive towing capacity.
- Spacious interior with user-friendly technology.
- Comprehensive suite of standard and available safety features.
- Comfortable ride quality and responsive handling.
Cons:
- Third-row seating is best suited for children or smaller adults.
- Some interior materials may not meet the expectations of higher trims.
- Higher trims can become pricey, especially with added options.
10. Conclusion
The 2024 Ford Explorer remains a compelling choice in the midsize SUV market, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. With a range of trims and configurations, it caters to various preferences, from daily commuting to off-road adventures. While some areas, such as third-row seating comfort and interior materials, may not be class-leading, the Explorer’s strengths in performance, technology, and safety make it a worthy contender for those seeking a well-rounded family SUV.