Why Troy Families Should Trust Their Travels to a Used Explorer

April 28th, 2025 by

A used dark blue 2018 Ford Explorer for sale near Troy driving by a lake.

As you make your way to Prospect Park, you’ll notice many families passing you by, and from compact sedans to hulking minivans, there’s a solution to suit any family’s needs on the road. Many parents are drawn to SUVs, and with so many options available on the market, how can you even decide what will work best for you? Fortunately, DePaula Ford can help, guiding you to the perfect selection of family travelers on the road, and when it comes to taking advantage of kid-friendly features, unbeatable safety tech, and an accommodating cabin, the three-row Explorer won’t disappoint. When you choose to buy used, you get to enjoy more features, better capabilities, and even more premium appointments for a price that won’t break the bank, making it easy to see why more Rensselaer County drivers are interested in used vehicles these days.

If you’re interested in finding a used Ford Explorer for sale near Troy, our pros can help you get exactly what you want in your ride to elevate travel time with your kiddos. So, what makes the Ford Explorer one of the best used SUVs for Troy families? From outstanding performance features to kid-approved tech, the Explorer arsenal offers everything parents are looking for in their dedicated travel companion.

Spacious and Accommodating

The Explorer is a midsize SUV, which is a favorite for Troy parents, especially those who need more space but can’t see themselves attempting to handle a huge minivan down Route 4. With three rows and space for up to seven to fit comfortably, the Explorer is a great pick for those traveling with more. Even its third row can accommodate a fellow adult passenger, which is something that not every three-row SUV can offer. Newer used models even offer easy access to the rear of the vehicle, thanks to a sliding second row that responds to the push of a button.

You’ll also find that the Explorer is ready to handle all of the travel belongings that tend to accompany little ones. From strollers and diaper bags for the younger travelers to sports equipment, school projects, and bicycles for the older kiddos, the Explorer can accommodate anything you’re traveling with easily. Many used models, especially recent models, showcase up to 87.8 cu.ft. in their cargo holds, allowing you to carry anything with you without affecting the comfort of those on board.

Fuel-Efficient Powertrains

Every parent knows that the older the kids get, the more trips you’re going to be taking in the car. Whether you’re shuttling them back and forth from basketball practice to dentist appointments, school field trips, or dance class, you can count on the Explorer to offer you exceptional fuel efficiency. Finding a used Explorer model allows you to take advantage of powertrains you can’t find in the current Explorer inventory, like the 3.3L V6 hybrid, discontinued a few years ago. This efficient engine is able to get up to 28 MPG on the highway, making all those trips up and down I-787 easier, knowing that you won’t have to stop by the gas station as well.

There have been many engine options available in the Explorer’s lineup over the years, ranging from hybrids to four-cylinders to V6s. Being able to choose from a greater selection of engines allows you to make the most of your time on the road with your family. Those who want to be able to tow their camper will want to choose a powertrain like the 3.0L EcoBoost turbocharged V6, which allows the Explorer to tow up to 5,600 lbs with ease. You’ll also be able to enjoy all-wheel drive capabilities on a selection of used Explorer models, helping you take on rough terrain or inclement weather with precision, allowing you to keep your precious cargo safe as you make your way along the Hudson River during wintertime.

A red 2020 Ford Explorer driving through a city.

Kid and Parent-Friendly Tech

Every parent knows that tech plays a major role in youngsters’ lives. Being able to catch up on an episode of Bluey in the back seat can make everybody’s time on the road more enjoyable. Thankfully, many used Explorer models can be enjoyed with some of the best tech on the market to make the journey with rambunctious littles a more satisfying experience for all on board. Finding a model with a rear-seat entertainment system helps keep your kids occupied as they watch their favorite shows, allowing you to remain more focused on the road ahead.

It’s not just all for the kids, though. The Explorer also comes with features designed with parents’ needs in mind. Choosing a newer used model will allow you to take advantage of more advanced tech, including smartphone integration, Wi-Fi capabilities, and voice-activated navigation. This helps you arrive at an unfamiliar destination, access your contacts and messages, and more without taking your hands off the wheel, creating a safer experience on Troy streets.

Comfortable Appointments

You may not realize how much time you actually spend in the family vehicle. From waiting to pick the kids up from school to shuttling them to all their extracurricular activities, parents spend a hefty amount of time behind the wheel. The great news about the Explorer is that with its high-quality appointments, parents are able to enjoy their time in the school pickup line more than ever. This is another perk of buying used, as you’re able to find top-of-the-line trims for a fraction of the price of buying new. This way, you’re able to take advantage of features like leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and more premium elements to help you remain cozy as you wait for the kids to be finished with baseball practice.

Prioritized Safety

Last but certainly not least, every parent wants to feel safe on the road, and no matter where you’re heading throughout Troy, whether it’s across town or just down the street, being protected is a must, especially when your kids are riding along with you. Choosing a later-generation Explorer model will allow you to harness some of the most advanced safety tech available to help keep your pack secure while traveling past the Troy Waterfront Farmers Market. From collision warnings and lane-keeping help to parking assistance to blind spot monitoring, the Explorer keeps an eye on you from every angle. With all these invaluable features, it’s no surprise that the Explorer has been a frequent IIHS Top Safety Pick throughout the years, making this model ideal for today’s busy families.

A white 2020 Ford Explorer parked by a railing.

The Perfect Pre-Owned SUV Option for Troy Families

When it comes to how you take on family outings, the vehicle you’re riding in plays a crucial role in keeping you safe, comfortable, and satisfied on the road. This is where the Explorer comes in to save the day for many families, with its used models offering unbeatable powertrain options to enhance efficiency, spacious cabins to handle all the people and gear traveling with you, and features designed with families in mind. As you make your way down the Troy streets, you’ll want to be riding in an Explorer. When you choose to buy a used Explorer, especially a more recent model, you’re able to take advantage of some of the best features available in the industry for a price that you can easily afford. This makes it easy to load up and hit the highway with your little ones, knowing that your vehicle was made for your family’s needs.