The 2017 Ford Explorer is marketed in one of the toughest and most competitive, yet popular, automotive segments : the crossover SUV.
If this year’s Explorer is one of the vehicles on your wish list, you have lots of choices. The 2017 Ford Explorer comes in five trims: Explorer, XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum. While it has a lot of competition, there’s much to like about the Explorer. Let’s take a closer look.
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Under the hood, the Explorer comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. But prospective buyers also have two alternative engines: a twin-turbocharged V6 and a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine choice. Most shoppers will turn to the twin-turbo V6 in higher trim models, which delivers the best power and acceleration of the three.
Drivers who own the 2017 Explorer Sport praise it for its sporty ride due to its turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, stiffer suspension tuning, and faster steering. This particular Explorer model provides lots of speed and impressive handling and braking.
The roomy 2017 Explorer can fit up to seven passengers in three rows. If you choose to equip your Explorer with optional second row bucket seats with a center console, seating is reduced to six passengers. Given that the interior cabin is super airy with a long dashboard and plenty of headroom and elbow space, you and your passengers will enjoy its comfortable and supportive seats in its quiet, soothing interior cabin. Those second-row captain’s chairs also recline and slide fore and aft.
Ford designers have ensured that the 2017 Explorer offers new infotainment, Bluetooth, and navigation systems. The Ford SYNC 3 infotainment system, new this year, includes a 6.5- or 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, and Siri Eyes Free. By replacing the older and more difficult-to-use MyFord Touch system, SYNC 3 has intuitive controls and responds to smartphone-style gestures.
Owners of the 2017 Ford Explorer will appreciate how well-made it is. They’ll find plenty of soft-touch materials and quality cabin trimmings throughout the interior cabin. Drivers will enjoy the quality leather used on the steering wheel; the interior cabin trim pieces shine and work together well. The interior of the Limited trim entitles the owner to receive more comfort and convenience, such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt-and-telescope steering wheel, an 8-inch touchscreen display with the new Sync 3 interface, a nine-speaker sound system and power-folding third-row seats.
If you choose the ultimate XLT Sport Appearance package, dark earth gray leather front seats and soft suede on the seat backs will surround your passengers. This high-end option also includes rich contrast stitching and Explorer logo floor mats.
If you are the parents of teenagers who can drive, Ford offers its MyKey system to alleviate the stress. This standard feature on the 2017 Explorer allows the parents to set speed and audio volume limits for the new driver when they are not in the car.
If you choose to upgrade to the Explorer XLT trim, you’ll be rewarded with a variety of convenience features, such as push-button start, power-adjustable front seats, and a proximity key. Additional safety features include rear parking sensors and upgraded brakes.
Those who opt for the Platinum trim, the Explorer’s highest, will receive a distinguished interior cabin that elevates it above all the rest. That’s because Ford designers have used quality materials throughout the cabin. Platinum owners will also enjoy a panoramic sunroof, a parking assistance system, adaptive cruise control, ventilated front seats, a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel and a 12-speaker Sony audio system. Another nice touch is the power-folding second and third row seats for quick and easy lowering with the touch of a button. Plus, you’ll have more cargo space for larger items because its second and third row of seats fold completely flat.
If you are a young family with infants or children in car seats, the Explorer offers two sets of LATCH connectors on both second-row outboard seats. The third row offers one more set of LATCH connectors.
Bringing your family on excursions in the Explorer requires cargo space. Fortunately, the Explorer offers 21 cubic feet of space with all seats in use or a maximum capacity of 82 cubic feet. You’ll have plenty of room for luggage, sports equipment, or shopping bags and other items. If your family tends to bring lots of drinks and coloring books or other toys, don’t worry. The 2017 Ford Explorer is equipped with anti-tip cupholders, long door pockets, and a huge center console bin.
The 2017 Ford Explorer has also been redesigned with new exterior styling options available. Offering an eye-popping XLT Sport Appearance package, designers used rich shades of gray and black to decorate the exterior. You’ll find large 20-inch wheels and a grille accented with what Ford calls Magnetic Gray. To complete the theme, designers used Ebony Black on the body side cladding and roof rack.
If you choose the top-shelf Platinum trim level, you’ll receive a luxurious vehicle equipped with a front and rear 180-degree camera system that has a wash function to keep the lens clean. It also offers a distinctive grille with satin-chrome finish, dual integrated chrome exhaust tips and 20-inch bright-machined wheels with dark-painted pockets. You’ll also be able to equip your vehicle with lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control as well as rain-sensing wipers, and powerfold mirrors.
If you’re a busy parent and often find your hands full, you’ll appreciate the Explorer’s hands-free liftgate that allows you to open the cargo hold with the wave of your foot under the rear bumper when the key is in your pocket or bag.
The 2017 Ford Explorer is the latest model in a line-up of popular American-made vehicles. This year’s entry gives you flexibility, versatility, luxury (if it’s in your budget), and a comfortable ride for the entire family. Check out our SUVs and other great Ford models here in Albany, NY.
*Images, fuel economy, and other stats, may reflect higher trim levels, options, or features that may result in a higher cost from the starting MSRP.
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, additional options, and possible destination charges. Dealers set own prices.
