2017 Ford Explorer

The 2017 Ford Explorer seats six or seven passengers, depending on how you configure it. There are five trim levels: base, XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum. The base price of the 2017 Explorer is $31,160. The fully-equipped Explorer Platinum 4WD costs $53,235. Ford offers three engines, and all trims are equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sport and Platinum have all-wheel drive only, while Base, XLT, and Limited trims are available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

Base Explorers have a very basic features list, the 2017 model comes standard with a small 4.2-inch infotainment screen, a rearview camera, a CD player, Bluetooth, a USB port, cruise control, remote keyless entry, cloth seats, air conditioning, and alloy wheels. Going up to the XLT adds satellite radio, rear parking sensors, and proximity keyless entry with push-button start and gives you access to more desirable options. The Limited and Sport have similar features, while the Platinum tops off the Explorer line as the fully loaded trim.

The mid-range Explorer Limited trim adds an 8-inch touch screen, a front-view camera, front parking sensors, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, power-folding third-row seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. Differentiating the Explorer Sport trim is its brawny twin-turbo V6 engine and a sport-tuned suspension. The Explorer Platinum trim adds rain-sensing wipers and all of the SUV’s advanced safety features.

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The base model Explorer isn’t very well-equipped and opens door to the very basic set of features and options. Most shoppers will like the XLT and Limited models instead as they not only adds desired features and options but also offers access to better powertrains.

Unlike other models dubbed "Sport," the 2017 Explorer Sport is indeed sporty, thanks to its turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, stiffer suspension tuning, quicker steering and our test vehicle's optional summer performance tires. - Edmunds

2017 Explorer Engine and Transmission

The Ford Explorer has three engines available, and all trims are equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. Entry-level base and XLT have a standard 3.5-liter V6 making 290 horsepower, and 255 pound-feet of torque. Both these trims also offer an optional turbocharged 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 280 hp, and 310 lb-ft of torque, which is more fuel-efficient than the regular V6 engine.

The Explorer Limited gets the turbo-four as standard while the Sport and Platinum trim's standard turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 delivers gutsy power rated at 365 hp, and 360 lb-ft of torque. The Sport and Platinum have all-wheel drive only, while Base, XLT, and Limited models are available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive. 

All three engines are dutiful around the town and reach the highway speed without any issue. However, if you are looking to haul heavy cargo, we will recommend going with the v6 options. The four-cylinder can feel strained when climbing hills or towing a trailer.

2017 Explorer Acceleration

The 2017 Explorer with the powerful Ecoboost V6 engine delivers instant acceleration and the six-speed automatic does a great job in channeling the 350 lb-ft of torque. The Explorer's 0-60 mph takes just 6.3 seconds, which is excellent for a big three-row crossover.

With the regular V6 engine, the base Explorer is a bit slower than the segment rivals, posting a 7.7 seconds 0-60 mph time. Though the size and weight of the Explorer is on the higher side, the three-row crossover SUV does a good job. GMC's Acadia is similarly quick with a 6.3 sec 0-60 mph acceleration time.

2017 Explorer Handling and Braking

The Ford Explorer has power always available that makes merging into fast traffic simple. Also, the automatic transmission downshifts to maintain speed. The vehicle comes equipped with a well-tuned electric steering system which turns in with immediacy. At speed, the steering is well-weighted but light enough for parking-lot duty.

The Sport trim gets stiffer suspension and optional performance tires that transform the Explorer's driving dynamics. Body roll is kept to a minimum, and standard the tires give good grip and it doesn't feel floaty for its size. The ride remains comfortable even on rough roads. The brakes on Explorer fets the job done. The pedal offers a nice linear action and feedback. The 2017 Explorer with optional large sticky summer tire record a remarkable stopping distance of 108 feet from 60 mph.

With the standard tires, the Explorer manages a decent 127 feet distance in emergency braking tests, which is on par with the rest of the segment rivals. 

The Explorer gets an EPA estimated 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with its four-cylinder engine, which is decent by class standards. The standard V6 drops the MPG ratings to 17/24 mpg city/highway, and the most powerful twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 lowers them further to 16/22 mpg.

 Ford Explorer has a fuel tank capacity of 18.6 gallons. Its rivals fall in the same boat however the Toyota Highlander is relatively better than the rest. With a standard18.6-gallon fuel tank capacity, the 2017 Ford Explorer can deliver a maximum combined driving range of up to 371 miles, which is below average in the midsize SUV class.

A well-made SUV. Plenty of soft-touch materials throughout the cabin; the steering wheel has quality leather; the trim pieces look good and fit together well. The only flaw we noticed was an occasional dash rattle that we couldn't pinpoint.-edmunds

2017 Explorer Seating and Comfort

The 2017 Ford Explorer's interior accommodates six or seven passengers, depending on if you choose the second-row Captain's chair or standard bench. The first and second rows have sufficient headroom and legroom for adults but like any other typical SUV, Explorer's third-row feels cramped. However, Ford has done a great job in styling the Explorer's cabin to modern standards, with many quality materials, especially in the Platinum trim. 

For 2017, Ford has done away with the touch-sensitive controls on the Explorer's center stack. A well-made SUV, it has plenty of soft-touch materials throughout the cabin. The steering wheel has quality leather while the only flaw we noticed was an occasional dash rattle. Also, rear visibility is a problem because of the thick pillars. The doors are long and open wide, making it for a big entryway. Second-row captain's chairs make for easy third-row access. 

Interior Features

Once you get inside the Ford Explorer, you\u2019d find the following interior features -

• Leather Steering Wheel
• Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel
• Transmission, Cruise and Audio Controls on Steering Wheel
• Dual Illuminating Vanity Mirrors
• Interior Air Filtration
• Heated Mirrors
• 8-Way Power-Adjustable Bucket Front Seats
• Height Adjustable Front Seats
• Driver Seat with Power Adjustable Lumbar Support
• Multi-Level Heating Front and Rear (Optional) Seats
• Premium Cloth and Leather Seats
• Folding Centre Armrest in Rear
• Optional Second-Row Console

2017 Explorer Infotainment System

For 2017, the Explorer XLT will also offer the newer SYNC 3 infotainment system, while the Limited, Sport, and Platinum models offer it as a standard feature. The 2017 Explorer comes standard with a 4.2-inch infotainment screen, a rearview camera, a CD player, a USB port, and Bluetooth.

Moving on to higher trims gets you an 8-inch touch screen, a navigation system, satellite radio, and rear-seat DVD screens. The new Sync 3 infotainment system is much easier to use than the Explorer’s previous MyFord Touch system, and it responds quickly to inputs. It comes with Apple car play and Android Auto compatibility. With the Sony Audio system, you get either a 6-Speaker or 12-Speaker stereo audio system.

The Infotainment system includes some of the following features -

• MyFord Touch Infotainment System
• AM/FM Stereo HD Radio
• Speed-Sensitive Volume Control
• Auxiliary Audio Input and USB with External Media Control
• Satellite Radio Service
• USB Connection
• 12 Total Sony Premium Brand Stereo Speakers
• 390 Watts Stereo Surround Audio Output
• CD Player
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Wi-Fi Hotspot
• Navigation System
• Onboard Hands-Free Communication System
• Wireless Cell Phone Hookup

2017 Explorer Cargo capacity

The Ford Explorer proves a superior amount of cargo space behind the third row, rated at 21 cubic feet. With these seats folded the cargo expands to 43.9 cubic feet. The overall cargo space of 81.7 cubic feet with second-and third-row seats folded on the small end of the segment.

Small-items storage options in the Explorer include anti-tip cupholders, long door pockets, a huge center console bin. In comparison to other SUVs in the midsize SUV segment, the Explorer's cargo capacity behind the third row is above average but with the seats folded the competitors offer better space.

The 2017 Ford Explorer gets a sport appearance package on lower trims, which is what Explorer buyers are looking for nowadays.-thecarconnection

2017 Explorer Dimension and Weight

The 2017 Ford Explorer's exterior highlight is a new sport appearance package on lower trims, which is attracting many Explorer buyers. Like the Sport trim, the sport appearance package adds 20-inch wheels, gray accents, gray leather and suede inserts, and black cladding. It's a good expenditure for buyers looking for menacing looks without shelling out $43,500.

The Explorer's design looks authoritative with clean edges, sharp corners, and plenty of available textures on the grille and cladding. The top-range Platinum models get LED lighting and distinctive trim.

In terms of size, the Explorer's wheelbase length of 112.8 inches is above average in the midsize SUV class. The Ford Explorer has a curb weight is somewhere between Traverse and Acadia. Dimensions are similar to other SUVs with the length being 5.5 inches smaller than the Traverse and that is going to create a big difference in the cargo space.

Exterior Features

The Ford Explorer comes with the following exterior features -

• Daytime Running Lights
• Front Fog/Driving Lights
• Dusk Sensing Headlamps
• Tire Pressure Monitoring
• Roof Rack Crossbars
• Wheel Lock Kit
• License Plate Bracket
• Rear Bumper Protector
• Running Boards
• Dual Panel Moonroof
• Splash Guards

The NHTSA gave the 2017 Explorer a perfect five-star rating for overall, front, and side-impact safety, as well as four stars for rollover safety. The IIHS rated the SUV with its highest "Good" rating in its crash test. However, the Explorer received Poor and Marginal ratings in its passenger side and driver’s side small overlap front crash tests, respectively.

All 2017 Explorers feature come standard with a rearview camera, front, front-side, and curtain airbags, a third-row safety canopy, a front passenger knee airbag, and rear outboard inflatable seatbelts. Available safety features include front and rear parking sensors, a front-view camera, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parallel park assist, lane keep assist, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.

• Safety Canopy System with side-curtain airbags1 and rollover sensor
• AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) and Curve Control
• Belt-Minder front safety belt reminder
• Child-safety rear door locks
• Individual Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• LATCH
• Rearview camera with backup assist grid lines and washer
• Remote Keyless Entry System with integrated key head transmitter remotes

2017 Ford Explorer Vs 2017 Toyota Highlander

The 2017 Toyota Highlander is also one of the top contenders in the midsize SUV class. The eight-seat Highlander offers a comfortable ride, quality cabin materials, and a strong V6 engine. Most of all, it has more standard features than Explorer. All trims are equipped with a user-friendly touch screen, as well as excellent safety features like forwarding collision warning with brake assist and adaptive cruise control. However, the Highlander doesn’t support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto which is available in Ford Explorer. Also, its third row is slim – even for children.

2017 Ford Explorer Vs 2017 Chevrolet Traverse

Chevrolet and Ford are the true rivals to each other with both the American manufacturers having a car to pit against each other in every segment. Comparing the Traverse and the Explorer, both the SUVs house with a twin-turbo V6 engine which produces a little more power in the Explorer. While almost on par with the Explorer, Traverse falls short in the quarter-mile drag race. Where Traverse shines is its practicality, with better cargo space of 36 cubic feet more than the Explorer and has 8 seats against the 7 seats in Explorer.

For a little more than 31 grand, you will get an American 7-seater SUV that is great is space for both the people and luggage along some impressive power under the hood. Ford Explorer\u2019s suspension is well tuned to give you a smooth ride with a subpar fuel economy. It is equipped with a host of safety features which are good enough to prevent a crash from happening but its crash test ratings seem to think so otherwise.

The Ford Explorer is still a great SUV for your daily commute and occasional off-roading. We recommend to buy this American heavy duty over the competition if you are little tight on the budget but still want a relatively powerful SUV.