2023 Ford Explorer Reviews, Pricing & Specs

The 2023 Ford Explorer is offered in eight different trims and can tow up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2023 Ford Explorer is a versatile midsize SUV that does many things well and runs the gamut from a capable family hauler to a sporty performance utility vehicle. The Explorer was completely redesigned for the 2020 model year, and it carries over into 2023 with minor changes.

Trims for the 2023 Ford Explorer are Base, XLT, ST-Line, Limited, Timberline, ST, Platinum, and King Ranch. Standard features on the entry-level Explorer include a power liftgate, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, three-zone automatic climate control, two USB ports, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and satellite radio. It also comes with an intuitive 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The XLT trim adds a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, four-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and remote keyless entry. The ST-Line includes a 6.5-inch instrument cluster display, a Bang & Olufsen premium stereo, an HD radio, and an ambient interior lighting package. The Limited trim adds leather upholstery, front parking sensors, and heated and ventilated seats in the first and second rows.

The Timberline trim is an off-road-oriented trim. In addition to standard four-wheel drive (4WD), it comes with skid plates, a limited-slip differential, all-terrain tires, and off-road shocks. The ST trim features unique, performance-oriented design elements, a sport suspension, and a fully digital instrument panel.

The Explorer Platinum features a dual-panel moonroof, Bang & Olufsen 14-speaker premium stereo, and unique Tri-Diamond perforated premium leather seats. The King Ranch features 20-inch alloy wheels and unique Del Rio perforated leather upholstery.

The Explorer delivers three rows of seating, and the second and third rows fold flat, providing up to 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space. With the second row in use, the Explorer provides up to 47.9 cubic feet of cargo space. With all rows in use, the Explorer provides 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.

The standard engine in the 2023 Explorer is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder. It makes 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The King Ranch, Platinum, and ST trims feature a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. It puts out 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. Power is routed through a 10-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels or to available four-wheel drive (4WD). When properly equipped, the Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds.

The Explorer comes standard with automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, rear parking sensors, automatic high beams, and driver-attention monitoring. Adaptive cruise control, front parking sensors, a 360-degree parking monitor, and reverse automatic emergency braking are all optional or come on upper-tier trims.

Base MSRP for the 2023 Ford Explorer is $36,760. The XLT trim starts at $38,570 and the ST-Line starts at $46,005. The Limited starts at $47,070, the Timberline starts at $48,980, and the ST starts at $50,005. The Platinum starts at $53,820, and the range-topping Platinum starts at $54,075. The Ford Explorer is backed by a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.