The Best Features You Should Look for in a Used Ford Explorer

Interested in buying one of Ford’s most popular SUVs, the Explorer? This iconic three-row SUV is a top choice for drivers looking for unparalleled interior comfort and cargo space, combined with impressive safety features and modern technology. If you’re looking for a used Ford Explorer for sale near Troy, we hope you’ll visit us! We have an enormous selection of this reliable large SUV and a dedicated sales team knowledgeable in every model year.

Ford’s reputation for making long-lasting vehicles makes it one of the best brands for buying a used vehicle. We know you’ll find tremendous value in a used Ford Explorer and still enjoy many years of quality performance from it. Since the Explorer has been around since 1991, there are many generations to check out by now. So, to help you narrow down your search, we recommend looking at the first half of the current generation (the sixth generation), specifically model years 2020, 2021, and 2022. We’re receiving more of these Explorer model years regularly as drivers who want to experience the current model year trade in their old vehicles. Still, “old” doesn’t accurately describe 2020 through 2022 Explorers. They have innovative technology and modern features that we think you’ll love. Here are features to look for in 2020 through 2022 Ford Explorers.

A Hands-Free Power Liftgate

Whether you’re taking kids to soccer practice, running errands around Troy, or enjoying a day of antiquing, there will be times that you approach your trunk with full arms and nobody around to assist you. When those moments come, you’ll like this feature. Here’s how it works: so long as you have your keyfob on you (it could even be tucked away in your pocket or bag) when you get near the Explorer, the vehicle will sense your fob. Then, just kick your foot beneath the bumper. Sensors will detect your foot, and the trunk will open automatically. So you don’t have to put everything down, manually open the trunk, and pick everything back up.

A Hybrid Powertrain

If you take some lengthy drives up and down I-787 and don’t want to face a major gas bill, here’s some good news: the 2020 and newer Explorers are available with a hybrid powertrain. You can expect great fuel economy on the highway and in the city with the HEV models. For example, the 2022 model can get 27 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. We recognize that fuel economy has historically been a concern for drivers in the large SUV space—both for budget and environmental reasons—so we were very excited when Ford released a hybrid Explorer because it made this top-selling three-row SUV more accessible to those with fuel cost concerns and sustainability on the mind.

Active Park Assist 2.0

It’s never easy getting into tight parking spots. When you have to tackle a multi-turn parking job, the chances of a small scratch or ding go up with every maneuver. And it’s no secret that the larger your vehicle, the tougher it is to park. Troy drivers will be glad to know that blindly guessing and estimating inches when parking is a thing of the past in the Explorer. That’s all thanks to something called Active Park Assist 2.0.

This feature works by first identifying a spot that your Explorer can fit in (so you don’t have to guess about that, either). Once done, just bring your vehicle to a stop, shift into Neutral, and hold that Active Park Assist button. From there, your Explorer will take over the remainder of the parking job, steering, braking, and accelerating, using precise sensors to guide you into the spot. When it’s time to leave, Park Out Assist can also help you get out without a scratch. You’ll find this feature standard on used Explorer ST or Platinum trims.

E-Z Entry Reclining Second Row Seats

When you’re constantly loading up three rows in an SUV, there will inevitably be some fuss between second and third-row passengers. Accessing that rear row can be tricky, causing plenty of complaints and flipping coins over who has to sit there. Luckily, the Explorer eliminates a lot of this hassle with its E-Z Entry second-row seats. At the push of a button, the second-row seats fold down, providing easy access for third-row passengers.

The second row is quite comfortable, too, thanks to the reclining seats. So whether you have teens who need an in-car nap between after-school activities or friends looking for a comfortable angle for streaming shows on their laptops, everyone can lean back. A used Explorer should keep all rows of passengers content, so nobody feels the need to yell “Shotgun!” while approaching the SUV.

Charging Options: USB or Wireless

From handling online homework assignments to answering client emails and more, there are a lot of tasks your passengers hope to complete in the SUV. That’s why we know that busy Troy residents will love the variety of charging options in the Explorer. First, the second row enjoys dual smart-charging USB ports. These ports can determine the exact amount of charge to send to devices, ensuring they charge fast without the risk of overcharging. With two of these in the second row, several passengers can plug in compatible devices at the same time.

Don’t want to use a USB cord? If you find a used Explorer with an available wireless charging pad, you don’t have to. Just place your device on it, and you’ll get a charge. That should come in handy when rear seat passengers are using the USB ports or you simply forgot your cords at home.

Twin-Panel Moonroof

Enjoy the lovely summer and spring weather in Troy with the available twin-panel moonroof. This feature gives you several options in terms of creating the ideal cabin temperature and atmosphere. The glass panels can slide back partially or completely to let in tons of fresh air. Alternatively, you can simply tilt the front panel to let in a light breeze. For times you want to block out the sun for a cool, dark cabin (perfect for nap time and streaming time), there’s a shade that can cover both panels. You’ll find buttons for each of these functions, just over the front seats in the ceiling.

Find the Used Explorer Model You’ve Been Looking for With Us

Troy drivers, it’s time to discover why so many drivers turn to the Explorer when they want an exceptional pre-owned three-row SUV. It’s remained a top-selling vehicle in its category for decades, and once you’ve taken it for a spin, we think you’ll understand why. Today, we just discussed a handful of features available across several model years. However, we didn’t touch on the various trim options for those years. So, visit us in person to learn which trim might be best for your life around Rensselaer County. One of our team members would love to get to know you, and understand what features are best for your daily drives. With tons of models arriving daily, competitive pricing, and in-house financing, we make it easy to find a used Ford Explorer you love and can afford. So visit us and drive home in your perfect used Explorer today!