The Ford Explorer has had a smooth run since its inception in 1991. Interestingly, the Explorer was introduced as a replacement for the Ford Bronco 2 that was dwindling down in sales and demand during the late 90s. So, Ford pitched in a 4-door option that was more practical. Staying true to its name, this mid-size SUV from Ford has "explored" various chassis and powertrain options across 5 generations and currently stands as a continuation of the all-new 6th Gen, introduced in 2020.
As the generation upgrade was undertaken in 2020, Ford has carried over the Explorer for 2021, albeit with a reshuffled list of features and tweaked pricing. The enthusiastic engine options are retained and so is its impressively spacious cabin and comfort features. Practicality still remains a major factor for this 3-Row SUV and it faces the likes of Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Subaru Ascent, and also the funky duo of Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride.
Ford Explorer gets added comfort features and an appearance package and continues to be a practical 3-Row SUV with a knack for performance, with the ST-badging.
Revamped Trims And Pricing
The 2021 Ford Explorer continues to be offered in 5 trims- Base, XLT, Limited, ST, and Platinum. All of these trims, except for ST and Platinum, are offered in both RWD and AWD configuration, and thus helps cater to a wider set of audience. Impressively. Ford has trimmed down on the pricing of the 2021 Explorer and it now starts from $32,225 for the RWD Base trim which is $540 lesser than the 2020 Explorer.
The reduction increase as we go up the trim table as the top-of-the-line Platinum trim is cheaper by more than $3,000. All the more impressive is the fact that there are no reductions in the features on offer. Well, the tighter competition has surely brought Ford on the edge, even for its well-received mid-size SUV. The performance-oriented 2021 Ford Explorer ST still remains the pumped-up one of the bunch and is priced at $55,000 (Expected). It is also offered in a hybrid powertrain that is priced on the higher side at $52,000 (Expected).
Flexible Performance With An Athletic Inline-4 And A Pumped-Up V6
There are two engine options on offer in the 2021 Ford Explorer and it happens to be one of the most powerful engine options of the segment as well. Base, XLT, and Limited trims are offered with a lively 2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4 engine that has been tuned to provide a balanced layout for performance and efficiency. This inline-4 motor pumps out 300 hp and 310 lb-ft.
ST and Platinum trims are equipped with a more powerful 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 engine. This unit is tuned to pump out 346 hp and 380 lb-ft in the Platinum trim but is boosted up to 400 hp and 415 lb-ft in the ST trim. One common factor that unifies all these trims is its 10-Speed Automatic gearbox that provides the right amount of zeal to gallop forward. Ford also offers the Explorer in a hybrid powerplant that utilizes a 3.3L Naturally Aspirated V6 coupled to a 44 hp electric motor to pump out a combined 318 hp and 322 lb-ft.
Spacious 3-Row Interior With More Comfort Features
The Ford Explorer is known for its lavish 3-row layout and the level of comfort and, fit and finish is quite compelling for a mid-sizer. It comes as a 7-seater layout for maximizing its practicality quotient. But for the trims from XLT and above, you can opt for 2nd-row captain seats that make it, one of the best second in the segment. The base trims get cloth upholstery and you for the trims above Limited, you get leatherette upholstery.
The Sporty ST trim also gets the same interior layout but with added exclusive ST interior that includes an "ST" logo laden on the seats and steering wheel along with red accents and stitching. Technology features are also well-distinguished with the lower trims getting an 8-inch touchscreen unit coupled to a 6-speaker setup running, Ford SYNC software. The higher ones get an eye-catchy 10.1-inch vertically mounted unit coupled to a premium Banf & Olufsen sound system.
Exterior Retains It's Chunky Yet Minimal Layout
Ford has gracefully transformed the Explorer into a brawny looking mid-size SUV during the generation up in 2020. The design cues are muscled out yet minimal, which gives it, a loud but mature personality. Ford has continued with this design language without any changes for 2021 as well. It's intimidating front fascia is cleanly laid out despite having a humongous chrome grille up front.
Plastic cladding all around the SUV including integrated elements in the front and rear bumpers gives drivers an added layer of confidence while treading the roads less traveled. The sportier ST trim is basically the same but gets subtle distinguishing cues to elevate its sporty nature. The notable ones are blacked-out chrome elements from the standard Explorer along with an ever so subtly engraved "ST" logo in the front grille and rear.
Ford Explorer ST Is A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing
The most powerful one of this bunch is the 2021 Ford Explorer ST that pumps out an impressive 400 horses. This 3-Row family hauler can do 0-60 mph in under 6 seconds which is noteworthy and has a top speed of 143 mph. Ford has done subtle changes to make the Explorer ST stand apart from its sober brothers.
But there are no over-the-top aggressive body kits or burbly exhausts here. And because of this very reason, the looks can be deceiving. As it will surely take a keen eye to see the small "ST" logos on it.
The 2021 Ford Explorer is a well-rounded machine that has been aptly carried over unchanged. It offers commendable performance, daily drivability, comfortable and tech-laden interior, and a clean muscular exterior. Ford slashing on its pricing for 2021, makes it even more desirable.
Sources: Ford.com, Media.ford.com, caranddriver.com, Edmunds.com, Fueleconomy.gov, Digitaltrends.com
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September 29, 2020 at 02:45AM
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2021 Ford Explorer: Everything We Know So Far | HotCars - HotCars
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