The Ford Explorer 2023 is a popular three-row SUV that continues to be a strong contender in the competitive midsize SUV market. This latest iteration of the Explorer boasts a refined design, powerful engine options, and a host of advanced technology features.
Whether you’re seeking a spacious family hauler, a capable off-roader, or a stylish daily driver, the Ford Explorer 2023 has something to offer.
From its sleek exterior to its comfortable and tech-laden interior, the Ford Explorer 2023 presents a compelling package. With a range of trim levels catering to diverse needs and budgets, the Explorer aims to provide a compelling option for a wide range of buyers.
In this comprehensive review, we delve into the details of the Ford Explorer 2023, exploring its strengths, weaknesses, and overall value proposition.
2023 Ford Explorer Overview
The 2023 Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV that offers a blend of practicality, comfort, and technology. It’s available in a variety of trim levels, each offering different features and capabilities. The Explorer is known for its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and advanced safety features.
Key Features and Specifications
The 2023 Ford Explorer comes standard with a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. A 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine is also available, generating 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The Explorer offers front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
- Engine Options:2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6
- Horsepower:300-365 hp
- Torque:325-380 lb-ft
- Transmission:10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain:Front-wheel drive (standard), all-wheel drive (optional)
- Cargo Space:18.2 cubic feet (behind third row), 47.9 cubic feet (behind second row), 81.7 cubic feet (with seats folded)
- Towing Capacity:Up to 5,600 pounds (depending on trim level and engine)
Trim Levels
The 2023 Ford Explorer is available in six trim levels: Base, XLT, Limited, Timberline, ST, and Platinum.
| Trim Level | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Base | Standard features include a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, cloth upholstery, and a six-speaker audio system. |
| XLT | Adds features such as heated front seats, a power liftgate, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. |
| Limited | Features include a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, all-wheel drive, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, and leather upholstery. |
| Timberline | Off-road-focused trim with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, all-wheel drive, unique exterior styling, off-road tires, and a Terrain Management System. |
| ST | Performance-oriented trim with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, all-wheel drive, sport-tuned suspension, a sport-tuned exhaust, and unique interior and exterior styling. |
| Platinum | Luxury-focused trim with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, all-wheel drive, a premium sound system, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, massaging front seats, and a premium interior. |
Performance and Handling
The 2023 Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, each delivering a different driving experience. The standard 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, while the optional 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine offers more spirited performance.
The Explorer’s handling is generally composed, with a comfortable ride quality. The steering is precise, and the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and dips in the road. However, the Explorer can feel a bit large and unwieldy in tight corners.
Interior and Technology
The interior of the 2023 Ford Explorer is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The materials used are generally high-quality, and the design is modern and stylish. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, and the second row offers ample legroom and headroom.
The Explorer’s infotainment system is intuitive and user-friendly, with a large touchscreen display that is easy to see and use. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a variety of other features, such as navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
- Infotainment System:8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, Wi-Fi hotspot
- Driver Assistance Features:Adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist
- Safety Features:Front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, a driver attention monitor, a tire pressure monitoring system
Safety and Reliability
The 2023 Ford Explorer is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Lane keeping assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Driver attention monitor
The Explorer has earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Explorer has a good reliability history, with J.D. Power giving it an above-average rating for reliability.
Price and Value
The 2023 Ford Explorer has a starting MSRP of around $35,000. The price can vary depending on the trim level, engine, and options selected. The Explorer is priced competitively with other mid-size SUVs, such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Chevrolet Traverse.
The Explorer offers a good value for its price, with a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and a range of features.
Design and Styling
The 2023 Ford Explorer has a bold and modern exterior design. The front end features a large grille with a prominent Ford logo, while the sides are characterized by sharp lines and a sculpted body. The Explorer’s design is a departure from previous generations, with a more refined and sophisticated look.
The Explorer is available in a variety of color options, including black, white, silver, gray, blue, and red. It also offers a range of exterior features, such as roof rails, running boards, and a rear spoiler.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Spacious interior
- Comfortable ride
- Powerful engine options
- Advanced safety features
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Can feel large and unwieldy in tight corners
- Some interior materials are not as high-quality as in competitors
- Third-row seating is cramped
Competitors
The 2023 Ford Explorer faces stiff competition from other mid-size SUVs, including:
- Honda Pilot
- Toyota Highlander
- Chevrolet Traverse
- GMC Acadia
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Mazda CX-9
- Subaru Ascent
The Explorer is a good choice for buyers looking for a spacious and comfortable SUV with a variety of features. It offers a good value for the price, but it’s not as refined or luxurious as some of its competitors.
Customer Reviews and Opinions
Customer reviews of the 2023 Ford Explorer are generally positive. Owners praise the Explorer’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine options. However, some owners have criticized the Explorer’s handling, its third-row seating, and the quality of some of its interior materials.
Future Outlook, Ford explorer 2023
The Ford Explorer is a popular and well-regarded SUV, and it’s expected to remain a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. Ford is likely to continue to update the Explorer with new features and technologies in the coming years.
The Explorer’s future outlook is positive, as it continues to meet the needs of a growing market for mid-size SUVs.
Final Summary: Ford Explorer 2023
The Ford Explorer 2023 stands out as a well-rounded SUV that offers a blend of practicality, comfort, and technology. With its refined design, powerful engine options, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, the Explorer is a strong contender in the competitive midsize SUV market.
While some might find the pricing a bit steep, the Explorer’s value proposition remains compelling, particularly for families and individuals seeking a spacious, versatile, and reliable vehicle.