Why The Ageing Ford Explorer Remains A Popular Three-Row Mid-Size SUV

Summary

The Ford Explorer has been a popular mid-size SUV for over 30 years and continues to be one of the top choices on the market.
Offering a spacious interior with room for up to seven passengers, the Explorer also provides convenient features such as power-folding rear rows and easy access to the third row.
With diverse engine options, including a hybrid variant, and smart safety technology, the Explorer has earned top safety ratings and caters to a wide demographic.

The Ford Explorer has maintained its popularity over 30 years, remaining one of the most popular mid-size SUVs on the market. A recent report by Car and Driver places the Explorer at number 19 in the best-selling cars, trucks, and SUVs of 2023 with 138,132 units sold. Additionally, a press release by Ford, in the first quarter of 2023, ranks it as the best-selling three-row mid-size SUV in America.

The Explorer caters to larger families, business people, camping enthusiasts, and law enforcement, and offers a variety of options, including the ST and King Ranch trims for those seeking a performance model.

The Explorer has received technological and safety updates over the years, ensuring that newer models, such as the 2024 Explorer, maintain the capability and performance the model is known for.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Car and Driver, Motor Trend, IIHS, NHTSA, and Ford.

A Spacious Interior For All

The Ford Explorer has had the most sales in the history of SUVs in America, with over 8.4 million units sold since its inception in 1991. The SUV offers spaciousness, comfortably accommodating up to seven passengers for short and long trips.

Priority For Cabin Space

The third-generation Explorer introduced a third-row seat, expanding the seating capacity to seven passengers. The sixth generation model transitioned from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive, slightly increasing cabin space.

In 2022, the Ford Explorer continued to offer a spacious interior that rivals its competition, with competitive legroom and a comfortable and easily accessible third-row seat.

Cargo And Towing Capacity

The Explorer offers a decent amount of cargo space, with the hybrid version providing a curb weight of 4,696 pounds and a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

Ford Explorer Hybrid Cargo Dimensions

Cargo Space (all seats in place)	18.2 cubic feet
Cargo Space (third-row folded)	47.9 cubic feet
Cargo Space (second- and third-row folded)	87.8 cubic feet

(Cargo dimensions sourced from Ford)

Versatility To Meet All The Demands Of Life

The Ford Explorer offers diverse engine options, including a hybrid variant that balances efficiency and power. The hybrid option, with a 3.3-liter V-6 gas engine and an electric motor, offers a dynamic balance of power and efficiency, with 318 horsepower, 322 pound-feet of torque, and 27 MPG combined fuel economy. The intelligent 4WD system contributes to a smooth driving experience in all weather conditions, making the Explorer a versatile choice.

Multiple Powertrains To Choose From

Trim	Engine	Horsepower/Torque	Acceleration (0-60 mph)	Efficiency (city/highway)
Base, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited	2.3-liter turbo-four	300 hp/310 lb-ft	6.8 seconds	20-21/27-28 MPG
ST, Premium	3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6	365 hp/380 lb-ft (Platinum); 400 hp/415 lb-ft (ST)	5.3 seconds	18/24-26 MPG
King Ranch	3.0L Twin-Turbo V6	400 hp/415 lb-ft	5.2 seconds	18/25 MPG

(Source: Ford)

Safety Is Key

Safety is a priority for a majority of enthusiasts of the SUV segment, especially when it comes to transporting the family. The aging Explorer nameplate has kept up to date with technology with smart safety features that are at par with the competition.

Safety And Special Features

The Explorer is well-equipped for a safe driving and riding experience, featuring standard driving safety aids and the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package that includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

Excellent Safety Ratings

The Explorer was named the 2023 top safety pick by IIHS and received an overall safety rating of 5/5 stars from NHTSA, making it a top choice for safety-conscious consumers.

Everything You Need To Know About The Ford Explorer EV

Ford is all set to raise the temperature in the electric segment with the new all-electric Explorer.

Nostalgia And Iconic Design: The Exterior

Blue Ford Explorer XLT 4x4 — Bring-A-Trailer

The Ford Explorer remains a fashionable and functional SUV, appealing to nostalgia with its iconic design. It has evolved over three decades, maintaining its reputation for versatility and performance. The car continues to be a top choice for consumers seeking a reliable and versatile SUV.

Tradition Meets Tomorrow

The Ford Explorer design has endured throughout the years, with earlier models based on a body-on-frame platform and later transitions to a car-based structure. Despite technological advancements, the Explorer maintains a rugged and practical design coupled with modern features.