Your Quick Guide to the 2021 Ford Explorer

The 2021 Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV with a lot to offer. The interior comes equipped with three rows of seats, lots of cargo-hauling space, and the infotainment and security features you love. A turbocharged four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive are standard on the Explorer, but an all-wheel drive is an inexpensive option. The Ford Explorer is and has always been, an SUV that has something to offer on every level.

Performance and Engine

A 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine is your standard option with the Base, XLT, and Limited trim offerings. While this engine will suffice for most drivers, those looking for more power beneath the hood may decide to opt for the Platinum model and its 365-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6. For an even quicker SUV, the sportier Explorer ST comes with a similar engine capable of producing 400-hp.

No matter which engine you choose, a 10-speed automatic transmission comes standard. The handling and ride are smooth, though to truly enjoy the performance, the Explorer ST’s extra power and stiffer suspension raise the performance level up a notch.

Fuel Efficiency and MPG

There are many options available when it comes to the Explorer’s powertrain and drivetrain, including a hybrid 3.3-liter V-6 with an electric motor for a total of 318 horsepower. This option is the most fuel-efficient, netting you about 27mpg in the city and 29mpg on the highway. The other options aren’t far behind, though, with the 400-hp Explorer ST achieving 25mpg in the city.

Interior and Cargo Space

The Explorer’s interior was designed with functionality and comfort in mind. For example, it’s much easier to get into the third-row seats now that Ford has added a mechanism that moves the second-row seat to allow for easier entrance and egress to the rear of the vehicle.

With both the second and third rows folded flat, it’s possible to fit 31 carry-on sized suitcases into the vehicle, and four if both rows of seats are up.

Infotainment

In line with Ford’s design philosophy of functionality and comfort, an 8.0-inch touchscreen display comes standard and includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot. Upgrading to the Platinum or ST models will provide you with an optional 10.1-inch touchscreen.

Every model comes with a rear-seat entertainment system and voice-activated navigation, along with a 12-speaker B&O stereo system.

Safety Features

If safety is a concern (and when is it not?), the 2021 model has received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In addition to its five-star rating by the NHTSA, every model is outfitted with several helpful safety features including lane-departure warning coupled with lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a rear-cross-traffic alert forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking.

Ford’s 2021 Explorer is a comfortable, supremely functional midsize SUV that comes with a bevy of engine options, from the standard 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder to the 400-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6. Its fuel economy is good and only made better with the hybrid engine option. It’s safe, smooth, and an excellent choice for a midsize SUV.

If you’re interested in finding out more about the 2021 Explorer, stop by Cloninger Ford of Morganton, NC to test drive one today.

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