2017 Ford Explorer Platinum

Pros: Broad range of available safety features; impressively quiet cabin; good fuel economy with EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine

Cons: Tight second-row seat; feels a bit cumbersome in close quarters; prices rise quickly as options are added

CG Says: After a fairly thorough refresh for 2016, the Ford Explorer sees two changes of note for 2017. A new SYNC 3 touchscreen infotainment system replaces the unloved MyFord Touch interface, and a new Sport Appearance Package debuts for the XLT model. Explorer is a very nice 7-passenger crossover that unfortunately competes with several other very nice 7-passenger crossovers. This Ford does a good job balancing the rugged attributes of an SUV with the more car-like dynamics expected of today’s crossover vehicles. The same is true for most of its rivals though, and they often cost less.

The Facts
Class Midsize SUV
Body Style(s) 4-door wagon
Passenger Count 7
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive
Manufacturer Ford
Nation of Manufacture USA
Base Prices 2WD Base: $31,160
AWD Base: $33,310
2WD XLT: $33,625
AWD XLT: $35,775
2WD Limited: $41,525
AWD Limited: $43,675
AWD Sport: $45,205
AWD Platinum: $53,235

Base Engine
3.5-liter V6
Horsepower
290
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
16-17
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
23-24

Optional Engine
turbocharged 2.3-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
280
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
18-19
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
26-28

Optional Engine
turbocharged 3.5-liter V6
Horsepower
365
Std. Transmission
6-speed automatic
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
16
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
22

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