Still Changing the Game: A 2023 Ford Explorer Trim Guide

It’s impossible to go anywhere and not see an SUV on the road. These days, the vehicle is more popular than it’s ever been before, offering family-friendly transportation and facilitating the needs of those who love adventures off of the beaten path. And this level of popularity might not have ever been achieved had it not been for the Ford Explorer. Thanks to its popularity in the 1990s, the vehicle has not only remained in production to the current day but has also set a standard for many manufacturers to follow.

If you’re in the market for an SUV and a Ford Explorer for sale is on your radar, then the information that we’re presenting here will certainly be useful. Ford is known for offering their vehicles in a variety of trims that serve the needs of any driver. Buckle up; it’s time to take a closer look at the intricacies of a vehicle that’s been changing the game for decades.

Ford Explorer Base Trim

Interestingly enough, the base trim of the Ford Explorer is aptly named. With its starting MSRP of $36,760, the base trim is ideal for those who are looking for a work-related vehicle that can function on the job site. It’s also recommended for drivers who have a keen eye for cost and have an interest in saving some money on their upcoming vehicle purchases.

While it might be the base trim, it still has plenty to offer in terms of what it’s equipped with. This includes a 2.3L four-cylinder engine with 300 hp, a three-zone climate control system, and an eight-inch infotainment screen that provides access to Apple and Android accessories. For those who have a concern with safety, the base trim also comes with Ford’s CoPilot 360, a comprehensive suite of features. These include Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), a Rear View Camera, as well as a Lane-Keeping System.

Ford Explorer XLT

The next trim up from the base, the XLT, offers many of the same attributes as the introductory model but builds upon them and adds more standard and available features that are geared toward comfort. These include a 10-way power driver’s seat, a power liftgate that makes loading and unloading cargo much easier, and available second-row captain chairs. Heated front seats and mirrors sweeten the deal, too.

Ford Explorer ST-Line

The Base and XLT trims are both practical and ideal for just about any income or driver. For those who have a keen eye for luxury and a love for sophistication, the ST-Line makes these items accessible. Building on both of the previous trims, the St-Line has a few noticeable upgrades that make for a memorable first impression. Chrome exhaust tips, a black front grill, and resting on a set of 20-inch wheels, its interior is gifted with a high-end stereo system from Bang & Olufsen with 12 speakers. Navigation and a wireless charging pad are also included to put technology at your fingertips.

Ford Explorer Timberline

As you might have deduced from its name, the Timberline trim is geared toward those who enjoy the path less traveled in the world of off-roading. The Timberline still utilizes the same powertrain as the previous trims but ups the ante with standard 4WD and a host of driving modes to tame any terrain it takes to. Ford has gone all out for its off-roading fans and also gifts the Timberline with an off-road suspension with customized shocks and skid plates to make the ride as stress-free as possible, even when the terrain is challenging.

Ford Explorer Limited

With off-roading and practicality in the rear-view mirror, it’s time we take a look at a vehicle that promises to deliver on your goals to “go electric.” While the Limited trim comes with the same powertrain that was previously listed, a hybrid version becomes available. It is excellent for drivers looking to save money on fuel costs. The hybrid powertrain consists of a 3.3L engine that boosts the horsepower to 318 hp and emphasizes conservative fuel consumption: 27 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The limited edition expands on some of the luxurious items by offering leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, as well as heated front and rear seats.

Ford Explorer ST

The SUV is praised by many for its versatile nature and being a practical method of transportation for many families. However, some drivers live for the thrill that high performance offers. And considering it was Ford who was responsible for the muscle car, it only makes perfect sense that they would bring these traits to their flagship SUV.

The Explorer ST is the high-performance edition of the vehicle and is noted for its powertrain, which consists of a 3.0L V6 that boasts an impressive 400 hp. Like the Timberline, the ST is gifted with a suspension geared towards a niche crowd, this case being those who favor fast acceleration. And if you’re looking to block out the worries of the world and prefer listening to music to engine noise, an available 14-speaker stereo system from Bang & Olufsen is what you’ve been waiting for.

Ford Explorer King Ranch

If you love the aspect of high performance from the ST trim but have a fondness for luxury, then the King Ranch is certainly ideal for you. This version of the Explorer utilizes the same powertrain as the ST but doesn’t feature the sport-tuned suspension. The King Ranch boasts a high-quality leather interior that can compete with any European luxury model and advanced technological features such as reverse automatic braking.

Ford Explorer Platinum

And here we are; we’ve reached the very top of the line when it comes to the offerings of trims from the 2023 Ford Explorer. The Platinum trim has two available powertrain configurations. The first of which is the high-powered engine from the ST and King Ranch trims, the second of which consists of the hybrid powertrain that was featured on the Limited trim.

Inside and out, the Platinum lives up to its name as it’s decked out with a plethora of bonuses. Sitting on a pair of 21-inch wheels, Ford has equipped the Platinum trim with adaptive headlights that work in conjunction with the steering wheel to maximize visibility wherever you go. For those who are looking to maximize their driving assistance, Ford Active Park Assist 2.0 is available and makes navigating parking lots easier than ever.

The Perfect Explorer Is Waiting for You

With a legacy that’s been celebrated since its debut and a multitude of trims and accessories that will appeal to any driver, the 2023 Ford Explorer is the perfect example of a manufacturer taking the time to offer a wide demographic everything they could be looking for in a vehicle, and just a little bit extra.

When it comes to getting everything you’re expecting and more, you’ll find the best selection of new and pre-owned vehicles right here at Kate Faupel Ford. Just like the Explorer that we discussed today, we have offerings that will appeal to any driver and a team that will help make the buying experience easy and enjoyable. See us today and get ready to explore the possibilities.

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