The Ford Explorer 2023 continues to be a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a blend of capability, comfort, and technology. This generation boasts a refreshed design, powerful engine options, and an array of advanced safety features, making it a compelling choice for families and adventure enthusiasts alike.
The Explorer’s bold exterior design features sharp lines and a commanding presence. Inside, the cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling rugged terrain, the Explorer delivers a smooth and confident ride.
The 2023 Ford Explorer: A Family-Friendly SUV With Style and Substance
The Ford Explorer has been a mainstay in the mid-size SUV segment for decades, and the 2023 model continues to offer a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and technology. This year, the Explorer receives subtle styling updates, enhanced interior amenities, and a refined driving experience.
With its spacious cabin, versatile cargo space, and a range of powertrain options, the Explorer remains a top contender for families and adventurers alike.
Key Features and Design Elements
The 2023 Ford Explorer boasts a refreshed exterior design that maintains its familiar silhouette while incorporating modern touches. The front fascia features a bold grille, slimmer headlights, and a more sculpted hood. The rear end has also been redesigned with new taillights and a more prominent diffuser.
The Explorer is available in a variety of exterior colors, including a new “Rapid Red” option.
- Updated front and rear styling
- Bold grille and slimmer headlights
- Sculpted hood and redesigned taillights
- Available in a range of exterior colors, including Rapid Red
Target Audience
The Ford Explorer targets a wide range of buyers, including families, professionals, and those seeking a versatile and capable SUV. Its spacious cabin, ample cargo space, and advanced safety features make it ideal for families, while its powerful engine options and rugged design appeal to those seeking a more adventurous experience.
Performance and Engine Options
The 2023 Ford Explorer offers a choice of three engine options, each delivering a distinct driving experience and catering to different needs.
Engine Options and Performance Specifications
- 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine:This base engine generates 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving and light towing. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offers a smooth and responsive driving experience.
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine:This more powerful option delivers 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, making it ideal for those seeking a more spirited driving experience. The V6 engine is also paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offers a more engaging driving experience.
- Hybrid powertrain:For those seeking improved fuel efficiency, the Explorer Hybrid combines a 3.3L V6 engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid system provides a smooth and quiet ride while offering impressive fuel economy.
Fuel Efficiency and Driving Range, Ford explorer 2023
The Ford Explorer’s fuel efficiency varies depending on the chosen engine option. The 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine achieves an estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine achieves an estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined.
The Explorer Hybrid delivers an estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined.
Interior and Comfort
The 2023 Ford Explorer’s interior is designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious experience for both passengers and the driver. The cabin is spacious and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout.
Interior Design and Materials
The Explorer’s interior features a blend of soft-touch materials, including leather upholstery, brushed aluminum accents, and premium stitching. The dashboard is driver-focused, with a large touchscreen display and easy-to-reach controls. The instrument cluster is also digital, providing clear and concise information to the driver.
Comfort and Spaciousness
The Explorer offers ample seating for up to seven passengers, depending on the configuration. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, while the second and third rows offer ample legroom and headroom. The cargo space is also generous, providing ample room for luggage, groceries, or sporting equipment.
Technology Features and Infotainment System
The 2023 Ford Explorer is equipped with a comprehensive suite of technology features, including a standard 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment software. The SYNC 4 system offers a user-friendly interface, intuitive voice control, and wireless smartphone integration.
Safety Features and Technology
The 2023 Ford Explorer prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of standard and optional safety features, designed to provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers.
Standard and Optional Safety Features
- Ford Co-Pilot360:This suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) includes features such as automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
- Rearview camera:A standard rearview camera provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle, enhancing visibility and safety during parking and reversing.
- Tire pressure monitoring system:This system alerts the driver to any low tire pressure, helping to maintain optimal tire performance and safety.
- Optional safety features:Additional optional safety features include a head-up display, a 360-degree camera system, and a parking assist system.
Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS)
The Ford Explorer’s ADAS features enhance safety and driver assistance by providing alerts and interventions to help drivers avoid accidents and maintain control of the vehicle. These features include:
- Automatic emergency braking:This system automatically applies the brakes to avoid or mitigate a collision with another vehicle or pedestrian.
- Blind spot monitoring:This system alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind spot, helping to avoid accidents when changing lanes.
- Lane departure warning:This system alerts the driver if the vehicle drifts out of its lane, helping to prevent accidents caused by inattention.
- Lane keeping assist:This system helps the driver stay centered in their lane by providing gentle steering corrections.
- Adaptive cruise control:This system maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting the speed of the Explorer.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2023 Ford Explorer is available in six different trim levels, each offering a distinct combination of features and pricing.
Trim Levels and Starting Prices
| Trim Level | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $35,395 | 2.3L EcoBoost engine, 8-inch touchscreen, cloth upholstery, rearview camera |
| XLT | $39,195 | 2.3L EcoBoost engine, 10.1-inch touchscreen, SYNC 4, heated front seats, power driver’s seat |
| Limited | $46,795 | 3.0L EcoBoost engine, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, power liftgate, panoramic sunroof |
| Timberline | $48,795 | 3.0L EcoBoost engine, off-road suspension, all-terrain tires, unique exterior styling, 7-passenger seating |
| Platinum | $53,895 | 3.0L EcoBoost engine, premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, power liftgate, panoramic sunroof, Bang & Olufsen sound system |
| King Ranch | $56,895 | 3.0L EcoBoost engine, premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, power liftgate, panoramic sunroof, Bang & Olufsen sound system, unique King Ranch styling |
Value Proposition of Each Trim Level
The Base trim level offers a solid foundation for the Explorer, providing a comfortable and capable SUV at a competitive price. The XLT trim level adds several desirable features, including a larger touchscreen, SYNC 4, and heated front seats, making it a compelling value proposition.
The Limited trim level offers a more luxurious experience with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The Timberline trim level is designed for off-road enthusiasts, with its rugged suspension, all-terrain tires, and unique styling. The Platinum and King Ranch trim levels offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort, with premium features and sophisticated styling.
Competition and Comparison: Ford Explorer 2023
The Ford Explorer faces stiff competition in the mid-size SUV segment from a variety of established players, each offering a unique blend of features and capabilities.
Key Competitors
- Chevrolet Traverse
- Honda Pilot
- Toyota Highlander
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Subaru Ascent
Comparison with Rivals
The Ford Explorer stands out from its competitors with its powerful engine options, spacious interior, and comprehensive suite of safety features. It offers a more rugged and adventurous driving experience compared to some of its rivals, while still providing a comfortable and refined ride.
In terms of pricing, the Explorer falls in line with its competitors, offering a good value proposition for the features it provides.
Strengths and Weaknesses in Relation to Competitors
The Ford Explorer’s strengths include its powerful engine options, spacious interior, and comprehensive suite of safety features. Its weaknesses include a somewhat dated infotainment system compared to some rivals and a slightly higher starting price than some competitors. However, the Explorer’s overall combination of features, performance, and value makes it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment.
Final Conclusion
The Ford Explorer 2023 is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and technology. With its impressive array of features and robust engine options, it’s a strong contender in a competitive segment. Whether you prioritize practicality, comfort, or capability, the Explorer has something to offer every driver.