The Explorer will carry forward its two engine configurations which include a 2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and a larger 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 that is reserved for ST trim and above. All the models except Timberline come standard with an RWD system while AWD is a $2,000 option. The power figures stand strong even on the base variant with a maximum output of 300 hp with 310 lb-ft of torque while the bigger 3.0L engine takes it up to 400 hp and 415 lb-ft. Those looking to put the muscles of this SUV into use can tow as much as 5,600 pounds. Despite its sheer size, the Explorer has a good amount of response on the steering and makes it very easy to drive. Both the engines offered by ford have great potential and figures, making this a very sought-after motor in the segment.
Model
|
2023 Ford Explorer
|
2023 Kia Telluride
|
2023 Chevrolet Traverse
|
2023 Honda Pilot
|
MSRP
|
$36,000
|
$35,500
|
$35,300
|
$38,000
|
Engine
|
2.3L turbocharged inline-4
|
3.8L V6
|
3.6L V6
|
3.5L V6
|
Drivetrain
|
RWD
|
FWD
|
FWD
|
FWD
|
Transmission
|
10-speed automatic
|
8-speed automatic
|
9-speed automatic
|
9-speed automatic
|
Power (Hp)
|
300 hp @ 3500 rpm
|
291 hp @ 6000 rpm
|
310 hp @ 6800 rpm
|
280 hp @ 6000 rpm
|
Torque (lb.-ft)
|
310 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
|
262 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm
|
266 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
|
262 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
|
0-60 MPH (seconds)
|
5.9 seconds
|
7.0 seconds
|
6.8 seconds
|
6.2 seconds
|
Quarter-mile (seconds)
|
14.4 seconds
|
15.3 seconds
|
15.2 seconds
|
14.8 seconds
|
Top Speed (MPH)
|
133 MPH
|
141 MPH
|
130 MPH
|
113 MPH
|
The Ford Explorer sits along with the Kia and Chevrolet in terms of pricing while the Honda sells at a slightly huger number for the segment. The Ford also carries the smallest engine here but the turbocharger helps it churn out impressive power, making it the quickest SUV to clock 60 mph despite the fact that the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse makes more power. However, the 2023 Kia Telluride carries the highest figure on the speedo with the Ford following behind.
2023 Ford Explorer Ride and Handling
The Ford Explorer despite its size feels like a very well-balanced SUV and handles hard corners with ease. This SUV is designed to keep the occupants comfortable and that has been achieved by keeping the suspensions on the sifter side. The large tires help the vehicle grip the tarmac, making it well planted and for the massive structure that the Explorer carries, the body roll is on the minimal side than what the rivals put out. Bumps and patches aren’t an issue and the standard Explorer will handle gravel and uneven roads without any trouble, but for the serious off-road junkies, the Timberline trim will suffice their needs and performance expectations.
2023 Ford Explorer Braking Performance
The Explorer comes standard with large 13.6-inch and 12.8-inch brakes for the front and back respectively. For was very keen on equipping a good set of brakes on the explorer as stopping a vehicle this large is a challenge. The vehicle and its brakes were rigorously tested before rolling them out for the users and this gives them immense confidence in pushing the car harder around corners. Ford has also offered forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking on the Explorer as a standard feature and this makes the vehicle much safer not only for the driver but also for the traffic around.
Model
|
2023 Ford Explorer
|
2023 Kia Telluride
|
2023 Chevrolet Traverse
|
2023 Honda Pilot
|
Brake Rotors (front) (in.)
|
13.6
|
13.4
|
12.6
|
13.0
|
Brake Rotors (rear) (in.)
|
12.8
|
12.0
|
12.4
|
12.6
|
Curb Weight (lbs)
|
4,565
|
4,255
|
4,310
|
4,030
|
60-0 (.-ft)
|
131
|
127
|
-
|
120
|
Despite having the biggest set of brakes, the Ford Explorer does not manage to stop quicker than its rivals and the major reason for it is the fact that the Ford weighs much more than the other cars do. The 2023 Honda Pilot tops the leaderboard here as it comes to standing still from 60 mph within just 120 ft.