2024 Ford Explorer

Price Range: $36,860 - $56,770 ^{Price range reflects Base MSRP for various trim levels, not including options or fees.}

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The 2024 Ford Explorer has uncommonly good handling for a midsize three-row SUV. Its technology features are helpful too. Two things hold it back: a lack of room and subpar materials quality.Read full review

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Edmunds suggests you pay

$35,203

6 Colors
4 Trims
4 Packages

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2024 Ford Explorer Review

by the Edmunds Experts

Pros

Strong engines for quick acceleration
Secure handling
Impressive collection of driver assist features
Roomy cargo area

Cons

Less second- and third-row space than many other rival SUVs
Subpar interior material quality
Adults may find the third-row seat uncomfortable

What's new

Hybrid powertrain is discontinued for 2024
Part of the sixth Explorer generation introduced for 2020

Overview

One of the first widely popular SUVs in America, the Ford Explorer takes its place within Ford's lineup as a midsize three-row SUV. The current sixth-generation model, which debuted for 2020, boasts pleasing performance and useful technology features. For 2024, the Explorer is mostly unchanged. Ford has discontinued the available hybrid powertrain but it's not a big loss considering we didn't think very highly of it to begin with. We're expecting a redesigned Explorer for 2025.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2024 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $2.99 per gallon for regular unleaded in Florida.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Florida

$155/mo

$218/mo

Avg. Large SUV

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Edmunds spotlight: The Explorer's diverse lineup

Unlike many other midsize SUVs, the Explorer offers several variants, including an off-road version, a luxury edition and sporty performance models. The Timberline trim, for example, has a lifted ride height, all-terrain tires, a limited-slip rear differential and skid plates to make it pretty capable for going off-road and getting out into nature. Or if you have a need for speed, there's the Explorer ST and its robust 400-horsepower V6. It's one of the most powerful engines you can get in this class.

Competitors to consider

Thirty years ago, the Explorer forged the template for the modern SUV and crossover. Today it competes in a crowded class, with plenty of automakers offering a three-row SUV. While we like the Explorer, it sits solidly mid-pack, while others like the Kia Telluride, Volkswagen Atlas and Honda Pilot all rank near the top for combinations of roomy interiors, vast cargo space and comfortable rides.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict

^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Good

7.7

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

The 2024 Ford Explorer has uncommonly good handling for a midsize three-row SUV. Its technology features are helpful too. Two things hold it back: a lack of room and subpar materials quality.

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

8/10

How does the Explorer drive? The Explorer is the three-row SUV to get if your priorities include balanced handling and strong acceleration. Unlike a lot of other SUVs in this class, it feels eager and light as you drive around turns. There's a lot of grip too.

The latest Explorer can handle lots of power, and Ford takes full advantage. The sturdy turbocharged four-cylinder base engine easily outpaces the competition. And there's a bonkers turbo V6 in the Explorer ST for those who believe too much is never enough. Both are helped along by a 10-speed transmission. It kicks down faithfully when you need it to, but its shifting is too indecisive in city traffic when you're just lightly getting on and off the gas.

Comfort

7/10

How comfortable is the Explorer? The Explorer's front seats are nicely shaped and comfortable. But we don't recommend the optional massaging ones — the mechanism behind the massaging can make the seats feel lumpy when it's off. Seat comfort gets progressively less cushiony as you move back to the second and third rows. Our Explorer Limited test vehicle rode smoothly most of the time, but smaller road imperfections were a little more noticeable than in some other SUVs.

Operating the automatic climate control system can require more manual adjustments than expected; the air vents won't pump out as much air as you want when you lower the temperature, for instance. Another drawback is that the Explorer isn't as quiet as it should be. The sound of the engine isn't well masked, and you can hear gusty wind noises at even moderate highway speeds.

Interior

7/10

How’s the interior? Things look decent from the driver's perspective. Front seat space is abundant, and the driving position is nicely adjustable. It's generally easy to see out thanks to adequate glass area and good-size mirrors.

But middle- and rear-seat passengers aren't as well taken care of. Middle-row knee room and legroom are not up to the standard set by others in the class, and the third row is unlikely to impress taller-than-average adults. Rear door access can be clumsy if the doors can't be opened past the first detent because space is tight between the large door map pockets and the prominent rear wheel arches. The third-row power-folding mechanism is nice, but raising the row for passengers must be done from the hatch area.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

Save as much as $5,326 with Edmunds ^{Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $5,326 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the King Ranch trim.}

2024 Ford Explorer pricing in Coral Springs, FL

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$39,785
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2025 Ford Explorer
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Technology

8/10

How’s the tech? The Explorer comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, the Sync infotainment system, and support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility. The Explorer is well equipped with driver aids. All Explorers come standard with automated emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, cross-traffic and blind-spot warning alerts, and automatic high beams, and additional features are either optional or standard depending on the trim. These systems work well. However, the alerts sound overly similar, and the lane centering system may falsely accuse you of taking your hands off the wheel.

Storage

8/10

How’s the storage? The Explorer's cargo hold is generous. With the third-row seats up, it's a bit tighter than in some other SUVs, but you can still fit three or four rolling suitcases back there. There's a good amount of small-item storage up front for your odds and ends, and child seats are easy to install in the middle row.

The Explorer's rear-wheel-drive architecture makes it especially well suited to towing, even if the max tow rating isn't particularly distinctive. The trailer tow package comes with an easily accessed receiver hitch, four- and seven-pin wiring, full support for an add-on electric trailer brake controller, a tow-haul transmission mode, and an enhanced blind-spot warning system that covers the length of the trailer.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

Fuel Economy

7/10

How’s the fuel economy? On paper, the turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine has slightly better EPA fuel economy estimates than its closest competition. The rear-wheel-drive version gets 24 mpg combined, and the all-wheel-drive model gets 23 mpg combined. Depending on what you compare it to, that's generally 1 or 2 mpg better.

But we could not match these figures in practice, possibly because this turbocharged engine feels overeager. Our test average was 21.1 mpg, and our driving included a long freeway stretch. This number lined up more or less exactly with lower-rated competitors that we drove in the same way.

Value

7.5/10

Is the Explorer a good value? You don't have to look very far or very hard to see plasticky interior plastics, unsightly gaps and mediocre design details. These would be understandable if this vehicle was a bargain, but it's not. You'd have to be the sort who puts a high premium indeed on mountain road agility and powertrain performance to offset these drawbacks. On paper at least, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost will reward you with better fuel economy. But we found it hard to replicate the EPA estimates in the real world, and in our tests the Explorer came out no better than its rivals.

Wildcard

8/10

You'll still peg the latest model as an Explorer, and this latest generation has a strong stance and sleek proportions that suggest motion. And this is no hollow promise because it offers a much better driving experience than any previous Explorer — or the majority of its competition. It's fast, it has poise and balance, and it likes to be hustled through corners. This Ford is the one to get if your daily drive includes mountain roads or interesting corners.

Which Explorer does Edmunds recommend?

We think the XLT is the best pick for value. Compared to the base trim, it adds some desirable features and gains access to additional options.

Compare 2024 Ford Explorer trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Ford Explorer Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.1

39 reviews

5(67%)

4(10%)

3(2%)

2(3%)

1(18%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Ford Timberline The Good and The Bad 3K Miles

Boxerlover9, 02/27/2023

2023 Ford Explorer Timberline 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A)

I have had 3 Ford Explorers in 5 years: A Sport, a Platinum and the Timberline. They all have Pros/Cons. I turned in my Platinum after 3 months for the Timberline because I didn't like the Platinum's 6 cylinder engine. I love the interior, the ride is amazzzing with shocks and lowered suspension, the sound system is solid and the 4 cylinder is great WHEN on sport mode. At 25 MPH on the …

Explorer ST Old Boomer's Badass Ride

JoeOshtemo, 08/30/2023

2023 Ford Explorer ST 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)

The ST comes with a twin-turbo V-6 and a ten-speed transmission, which for an old gearhead gets me to church and the grocery store just peacefully and economically. Doesn't sound like a sewing machine like the 4 banger, and looks upscale. A bit firm ride, but that's why townships put their cops in them, including serious 400 HP with low-end torque, all with bucket seats that cradle this …

Wanted to love this vehicle, but epic fail by Ford

Chris B, 01/05/2024

2023 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A)

I really wanted to love this vehicle as they are a nice looking vehicle. After about 1000 miles the seat motor quit working. I had to take it to the dealership and they ended up ordering a new frame. Once the seat was fixed, I noticed the AC was not coming on if I had the heat on earlier in the morning. I would have to drive around and turn the AC on and off about 10 times before it …

Ford Explorers quality/ customer satisfaction gone

UnhappyFordOwner, 07/17/2024

2023 Ford Explorer ST 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A)

I have owned 5 Ford Explorers. I still have a 2007 with under 100k. But in Jan we decided to trade in our beautiful 2019 F150 w 33k for a new Explorer we got a 2023 because there were no 2024's available. We bought a st line. When we got home we noticed places where paint was missing and too long of story but won't be buying from that dealer ever again. Took this one w 300 miles on it …

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2024 Ford Explorer, so we've included reviews for other years of the Explorer since its last redesign.

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2024 Ford Explorer Features & Specs

Trim:

Base

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$36,860
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	24 MPG
Cost to Drive	$155/month
Seating	7 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	18.2 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

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Ford Explorer vs. Chevrolet Traverse

The Chevrolet Traverse is one of the Ford Explorer's primary rivals, but it's a different kind of SUV. The Traverse's interior and cargo space are larger, but it can't match the Explorer's range of options or sporty handling. Where the Explorer offers off-road and high-performance versions, the Traverse is essentially one model with multiple feature sets. But if you need a roomy third-row seat, the Chevy is the way to go.

Compare Ford Explorer & Chevrolet Traverse features

Ford Explorer vs. Hyundai Palisade

Hyundai updated the Palisade last year with new styling, interior design and enhanced infotainment and driver safety tech. But it was already one of our top picks before those upgrades. All three rows are roomy enough for adults, the V6 delivers smooth power, and cargo and storage space are generous. Hyundai's excellent warranty is also a bonus. The Palisade, however, doesn't offer an off-road or performance-oriented version.

Compare Ford Explorer & Hyundai Palisade features

Ford Explorer vs. Kia Telluride

The Kia Telluride remains our top pick among all midsize three-row SUVs. Recent styling, interior and tech upgrades and new off-road-oriented versions make it even better. It shares mechanical and platform similarities with the Hyundai Palisade, which means it has three roomy rows, a quiet and cushy cabin, and generous cargo space. There's no Telluride equivalent to the sporty Explorer ST, however.

Compare Ford Explorer & Kia Telluride features

2025 Ford Explorer

At a Glance:

6 Colors
4 Trims
4 Packages
$39,785starting MSRP

Build & Price Ford.com

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Explorer safety features:

Post-Collision Braking: Applies the brakes after a collision to reduce the effects of a secondary collision.
Lane Keeping System: Alerts the driver as the Explorer starts to drift out of its lane. Also applies steering input to guide the SUV back into the lane.
Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a safe following distance between the Explorer and the car in front. Also includes a system that keeps the Explorer centered in the lane.

NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Side Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating	Rating
Overall	5 / 5
Driver	5 / 5
Passenger	5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings	Rating
Front Seat	5 / 5
Back Seat	5 / 5
Rollover	Rating
Rollover	4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result	No Tip
Risk Of Rollover	14.7%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test	Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test	Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original	Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated	Good
Side Impact Test – Original	Good
Side Impact Test – Updated	Good
Roof Strength Test	Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint	Good

FAQ

Is the Ford Explorer a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 Explorer both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.7 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2024 Explorer gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 39 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Explorer has 18.2 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Ford Explorer. Learn more

What's new in the 2024 Ford Explorer?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Ford Explorer:

Hybrid powertrain is discontinued for 2024
Part of the sixth Explorer generation introduced for 2020

Learn more

Is the Ford Explorer reliable?

To determine whether the Ford Explorer is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Explorer. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Explorer's 4-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2024 Ford Explorer a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Ford Explorer is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 Explorer and gave it a 7.7 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2024 Explorer gets an average rating of 4 stars out of 5 (based on 39 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 Explorer is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2024 Ford Explorer?

The least-expensive 2024 Ford Explorer is the 2024 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $36,860.

Other versions include:

4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $36,860
XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $38,670
4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $38,860
XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $40,670
ST-Line 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $46,455
Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $47,520
ST-Line 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $48,455
Timberline 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $49,430
Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $49,520
ST 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $50,105
ST 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $52,105
King Ranch 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $54,625
Platinum 4dr SUV (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $54,770
King Ranch 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $56,625
Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 10A) which starts at $56,770

Learn more

What are the different models of Ford Explorer?

If you're interested in the Ford Explorer, the next question is, which Explorer model is right for you? Explorer variants include 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A), XLT 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A), 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A), and XLT 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A). For a full list of Explorer models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

2024 Ford Explorer

Pricing

2024 Ford Explorer Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $2.99 per gallon for regular unleaded in Florida.

Edmunds spotlight: The Explorer's diverse lineup

Competitors to consider

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Save as much as $5,326 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $5,326 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the King Ranch trim.

Edmunds suggests you pay

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which Explorer does Edmunds recommend?

Ford Explorer Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Ford Timberline The Good and The Bad 3K Miles

Explorer ST Old Boomer's Badass Ride

Wanted to love this vehicle, but epic fail by Ford

Ford Explorers quality/ customer satisfaction gone

Helpful shopping links

2024 Ford Explorer Features & Specs

Compare the Ford Explorer

Ford Explorer vs. Chevrolet Traverse

Ford Explorer vs. Hyundai Palisade

Ford Explorer vs. Kia Telluride

Check a dealer's price

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Explorer safety features:

NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars

IIHS Rating

2024 Ford Explorer First Impressions

What is the Explorer?

Edmunds says

FAQ

Is the Ford Explorer a good car?

What's new in the 2024 Ford Explorer?

Is the Ford Explorer reliable?

Is the 2024 Ford Explorer a good car?

How much should I pay for a 2024 Ford Explorer?

What are the different models of Ford Explorer?

Related 2024 Ford Explorer info

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Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2024 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $2.99 per gallon for regular unleaded in Florida.}

Save as much as $5,326 with Edmunds ^{Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $5,326 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the King Ranch trim.}