2023 Ford Explorer vs 2024 Ford Explorer

2023 Explorer vs 2024 Explorer
What You Need to Know

To start off, we'd like to provide a table that gives you a brief overview of the differences between the 2023 and 2024 Ford Explorers. However, to get the scoop on more pertinent, deeper details, keep on reading.

Ford Explorer:
What's Changed for 2024?

There's not much of a difference between the current Ford Explorer and the Ford Explorer of previous model years. The only change to the Ford Explorer lineup this year is the dropping of the hybrid powertrain. It's said that while this isn't the most fuel-conscious choice from Ford, they are doing this as part of their plan to offer all of their vehicles in full electric models in the near future.

For that, time will tell, but the bottom line is that everything you know and love about the Ford Explorer is here to stay.

2024 Ford Explorer:
Drivetrain, Powertrain and Towing

Powertrain

Ford offers excellent turbocharged engines on the Ford Explorer. What they lack in fuel economy, they make up for with power. And that's assuming they're not on fuel economy, too. The 300hp turbocharged four-cylinder motor still makes an impressive 23mpg combined. The 400hp twin turbo V6 is also a great option and makes 20 mpg combined.

Drivetrain

Each engine option on the Ford Explorer is offered in an all-wheel drive or a rear-wheel drive platform. The standard rear-wheel drive platform will be more than enough to get most drivers where they're going, but if you need a little extra grip, all-wheel drive is a great way to go.

Towing

While there isn't too significant a difference in towing capacity between the two powertrains, if you're in for a tow, you'll fare better with the twin-turbo V6. That's partially due to the massive torque improvements over its four-cylinder counterpart.

2024 Ford Explorer:
Trim Levels

One of the best parts about owning a Ford is all of the available trim levels. This means your Ford has everything you want and nothing you don't. Just because there's a difference in features between trims doesn't mean a difference in build quality. All Ford Explorers are sturdy, reliable beasts of machines.

Base

For people who don't want frills, the base model Ford Explorer is a great option, and unlike some brands' base model SUVs, the base Ford Explorer comes equipped with the basics like power windows that most people expect out of their SUV.

XLT and ST-Line

Next is the Explorer XLT, which comes with plenty of amenities even at the first available trim level. The XLT is equipped with adaptive cruise control, heated front seats, a leather steering wheel, rear parking sensors, and more. The Ford Explorer ST-line upgrades this further with premium Bang & Olufsen speakers, wireless charging, and more.

Limited, Timberline, and ST

The Ford Explorer Limited takes things to another level with a 10.1” infotainment screen as well as perforated leather seating and premium 20” aluminum wheels. The Timberline, too, takes things to another level but in a different direction. It's equipped with off-roading technologies, as well as extra netting for rugged storage space. Like other trims, the Ford Explorer ST comes with the twin-turbo V6, but the Explorer ST also comes with everything offered on the Ford Explorer Limited.

King Ranch and Platinum

Nearing the top of the lineup, the Ford Explorer King Ranch model comes with premium leather seating, an upgraded powertrain, and custom King Ranch wheels. At the top of the Ford Explorer lineup is the Platinum. It's got diamond-stitched, perforated leather seating, a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, a large moonroof, and more. It's truly a sight to behold.

2024 Ford Explorer:
Clearance and Interior Space

Ground Clearance

All Ford Explorer models have 7.9” of ground clearance. This is ample clearance to tackle off-road terrain and easily handle anything on the road. Explorer's clearance is just part of what makes it such a capable option for an SUV.

Interior Space

Have you ever gotten in an "SUV" and noticed a distinct lack of front shoulder room, front legroom, or front headroom, let alone the room for the passengers? Some SUVs aren't built for space. Luckily, for Explorer drivers, that's not the Explorer. With third-row seating and optional captain's seating over the bench seat in the second row, the whole family and more can fit in, thanks to the amount of passenger volume in the Ford Explorer.

Passengers don't have to worry about feeling cramped in the Explorer, either. Finally, with the Explorer, both the driver and passenger can exist in peace, with enough space for all.

Ames Ford:
Explore our Explorers

Whether you're looking for a new Explorer or any new Ford, we're here to help you drive the car of your dreams at Ames Ford. Iowans and Ford lovers alike are sure to find something that holds their interest in our new or used inventory. Feel free to schedule a test drive online or give us a call at 515-233-1913.

If you're ready to take the next step on your next car, or even if you're just curious about what you can afford, you can use our payment calculator tool. You can skip the extra trip to the dealership as well with our online credit application. Even if you're not in the market for a new vehicle, the KBB Instant Cash Offer can give you a great deal on the car you're trying to sell or trade.