2019 Ford Explorer Review

The base trim, predictably, sits at the very bottom of the Explorer range. Standard feature highlights include 18-inch wheels, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a rearview camera, a 4.2-inch central display, Bluetooth, a USB port and Ford's Sync voice command system. Under the hood is a non-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 (290 horsepower, 255 pound-feet of torque), while a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (280 hp, 310 lb-ft of torque) is available as an option.

The XLT trim level is one rung up the ladder, adding a few standard features over the base trim level such as a power-adjustable front passenger seat, satellite radio and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. There are two main option packages to consider with the XLT. The first is the Driver Connect package that includes an 8-inch central touchscreen with the Sync 3 interface, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and extra USB ports. You can also get a Ford Safe and Smart package that comes with blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist and automatic wipers.

Buyers who want to amp things up will be attracted to the Limited trim, which adds the features from the XLT's Driver Connect package plus leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, premium audio and power-folding third-row seats. Note that the Limited comes standard with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but you can still get the regular V6 if you want.

While those additional comfort items are desirable, we're partial to the Sport variant's more fundamental changes. These models come with a powerful turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 (365 hp, 350 lb-ft of torque), firmer suspension tuning and a towing package.

It's possible to get the turbocharged V6 paired to the softer suspension of non-Sport models by going for the top-of-the-line Platinum trim level. It comes with the Ford Safe and Smart package, a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable pedals, an automated parking system, premium leather upholstery, a premium audio system and more.