2023 Ford Explorer

The 2023 Ford Explorer is available in eight trims: Base, XLT, ST-Line, Limited, Timberline, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. The only notable change for the 2023 model year involves a new exterior paint color. Jewel Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat replaces Burgundy Velvet Metallic Tinted Clearcoat. Otherwise, the SUV comes standard with LED headlights and a power liftgate, but roof rails, heated exterior mirrors, and chrome exterior accents are found on the upper trims. Available alloy wheels also range in size from 18 to 21 inches and come in a variety of finishes.

Both engine options found with the 2023 Ford Explorer provide ample power. The base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Most models use this engine. For additional heft, upgrade to the 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 engine that gets 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. Both engines use a 10-speed automatic transmission to send power to the wheels. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, but all-wheel drive is available.

Pertaining to gas mileage, the 2023 Ford Explorer achieves average numbers compared to similar vehicles. With the base engine and rear-wheel drive, the SUV gets about 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. Opting for models with the same engine and four-wheel drive drops the mileage by 1 mpg. Models with the V-6 engine and rear-wheel drive return 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the all-wheel-drive models get 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Also, when properly equipped, the SUV has a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds.

Depending on the interior configuration, the 2023 Ford Explorer can seat seven occupants comfortably. The SUV also has one of the largest cargo areas at 87.8 cubic feet of space behind all the back seats. Its straightforward infotainment system has crisp and clear graphics. Access information via the standard 8-inch or available 10.1-inch touchscreen display. Some of the other standard features include satellite radio, voice recognition, USB ports, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Available upgrades include wireless smartphone charging, HD radio, navigation, additional USB ports, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Ford has always put safety first when it comes to its vehicles, and the 2023 Explorer is no different. Every SUV comes standard with almost a dozen safety features, including driver-attention monitoring, forward automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlights, and rear parking sensors. It also includes Ford's MyKey, which allows you to set audio and speed limits for secondary drivers. A few additional driver-assistance features include adaptive headlights, evasive-steering assist, a surround-view parking camera system, and adaptive cruise control. Thanks to these astounding safety features, the SUV earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.