
Are you ready to conquer new trails or take to the open road in a rugged and versatile SUV? Well, you’re just in luck! You can find the 2023 Ford Explorer for sale here at Premier Ford Inc. The utterly iconic Explorer has been a staple of the Ford lineup since its release in 1991. The latest Explorer model still impresses consumers with its magnificent performance capabilities and advanced technologies across a range of trim levels. In this comprehensive guide to the Explorer, we will go through all the different trim levels and some of the options available for the 2023 model year. With this information in hand, you might find it easier to make an informed decision on which Explorer trim to choose when setting out on your next adventure.
Why Choose the Ford Explorer?
Before we jump in and explore the various trim levels of the 2023 Ford Explorer, let’s go over what makes this model such a desirable SUV. The Explorer is aptly named for its adventurous spirit and adaptable design. This helps make it a prime option for outdoors people, urban adventurers, and larger families who are always on the go. Its athletic exterior design is matched by a cavernous cabin fitted with an abundance of high-tech features. Buyers truly can take their exploration to new heights with this vehicle.
Ford Explorer Base
The Ford Explorer’s entry-level Base trim establishes a solid foundation for the SUV’s lineup, starting with a strong 2.3L EcoBoost engine under the hood. It puts forth 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque for an efficient yet responsive performance. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available.
Seven passengers can be comfortably seated inside of the Explorer’s cozy and spacious cabin. There are plenty of in-demand tech and safety features equipped on the Base trim, including an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with smartphone app integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Advanced driver aids are bundled into the comprehensive Co-Pilot360 suite. This gives you Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, a Lane-Keeping System, and more. All things considered, the Explorer Base is an appealing option with its reasonable starting price and abundance of features. This is one trim level that will not break the bank!
Ford Explorer XLT
The XLT takes the Base trim’s groundwork and builds on it with a few key additions. This includes power-adjustable front seats and a steering wheel that is wrapped in leather, making the cabin feel more luxurious. Intelligent Access provides more convenience with a push-button start, and you can opt for a dual-panel moonroof for a more open ambiance. The overall result is a more feature-rich trim with a higher degree of creature comfort.
Ford Explorer ST-Line
Up another rung on the ladder is the ST-Line. It marries some sportier styling elements with the XLT’s features. The ST-Line has standard machined-finish 20-inch alloy wheels, headlights and taillights with dark tint, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and a black grille with matching exterior trim. Inside the ST-Line, you get even more luxury with ActiveX seats boasting Miko inserts and red stitching. Ambient interior lighting creates a warm and welcoming environment. Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, voice-activated navigation, and wireless smartphone charging all get added to this trim, keeping you safer and more connected when on the go.
Ford Explorer Timberline
Are you looking for more adventure off the beaten path? The Timberline is more rugged than other trims, crafted specifically for off-roading. It showcases an elevated ride height for enhanced ground clearance and has a specially tuned suspension to help with off-roading. What’s more, all-wheel drive is standard issue. The front and rear fascia have a unique design, and the 18-inch black alloy wheels are fitted with all-terrain tires. Red tow hooks are added up front, and a Class IV Trailer Tow Package is included. Inside, you get heated second-row seats and cloth inserts in the ActiveX upholstery. The Timberline is a chic way to take on off-roading challenges.
Ford Explorer Limited
Maybe you’d like a little more sophistication? The Limited trim is powered by either the standard 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged engine or a 3.3L V6 hybrid engine with 318 hp. Chrome trim is added to the body, and the interior gets a lot of premium features and technology. Second-row sunshades, ventilated front seats, leather upholstery, and a heated steering wheel add a touch of luxury. Do you need to use your cargo area often? You can open the power liftgate with the touch of a button. The Limited balances convenience and sophistication with features such as this.
Ford Explorer ST
Are you craving more performance from the Explorer? The ST will be right up your alley with its beefy 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine. Its power output hits 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, offering a riveting driving experience. The special sport-tuned suspension adds extra agility and handling capabilities. Sporty styling cues make the ST stand out with unique badging and eye-catching exterior accents. Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management lets you easily tackle off-roading challenges, while a 10.1-inch infotainment display lets you use SYNC 4 for all your entertainment and connectivity needs.
Ford Explorer King Ranch
Do you want luxury with a Western twist? The King Ranch trim blends comfort with Western aesthetics, including rich Del Rio leather upholstery complete with special embroidering and stitching. A 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel makes the dash look high-tech. Approach lighting is added to the outside of the vehicle for enhanced visibility and safety. Speaking of safety, rear parking sensors will detect anything behind your vehicle when you are in reverse, helping you avoid parking lot accidents.
Ford Explorer Platinum
At the Explorer’s top level is the Platinum trim. Powered by the robust 3.0L V6 or the 3.3L hybrid, the Platinum truly embodies luxury as well as performance. No expense is spared in this trim! The seats are adorned with premium leather with quilted inserts and micro-perforation. The 14-speaker B&O sound system creates an immersive audio experience, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment center has standard wireless charging and voice-activated navigation.
Optional Packages
There are multiple packages available for select trim levels. Should you find you want a few extra features, these packages might appeal to you. Here’s what you can get:
XLT Sport Appearance Package
The XLT opens opportunities for a vast degree of customization, with the XLT Sport Appearance Package being a popular choice. It includes an exclusive interior with Ebony and Light Slate seats decorated with contrast stitching, and the exterior comes in sleek Carbonized Gray accented by gloss black side mirror caps for a sporty aesthetic. The 20-inch Carbonized Gray wheels match the paint job.
XLT Technology Package
The XLT Technology Package lets you acquire more desirable gadgets. Trailer towing equipment comes as part of this package, as does a 360-Degree Camera system that lets you see a bird’s-eye view of everything surrounding the Explorer. This comes in handy when you’re wiggling in and out of tight parking spaces. Power-folding side mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a premium 12-speaker sound system, and a wireless smartphone charger round out the list of features included in this robust tech-based package.
Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ Package
If you want more driver aids on the XLT, you can snag the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ Package. This adds an integrated navigation system, Evasive Steering Assist, and Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering. These features give you more control and extra layers of safety while driving the Explorer.
ST Street Package & ST High-Performance Package
When you opt for the ST trim level, you can outfit it with one of two packages designed to take its performance to the next level. The first is the ST Street Package, which adds red brake calipers, 21-inch alloy wheels, and performance brakes. The ST High-Performance Package goes a step further, adding all of the features of the ST Street Package but upgrading to high-performance brake pads for superior stopping power.
Technology Package & Premium Technology Package
There are a few upgrades for the King Ranch and Premium trims. The Technology Package adds a 14-speaker premium sound system and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Premium Technology Package tacks on massaging front seats for an extra degree of luxury.
Explore What It Means to Be Awesome!
Are you ready to explore what it means to drive an awesome SUV? The 2023 Ford Explorer lineup offers a diverse selection of trim levels and optional packages. From the affordable Base trim and the high-octane ST to the outdoorsy Timberline and the luxurious Platinum, there is a Ford Explorer for you. Take some time to explore these trims and get familiar with how the Explorer performs here at Premier Ford Inc. We can't wait to meet you and have you take this exemplary SUV out for a test drive so you can find out which trim best suits your needs. Enjoy your exploration!