Starts at $36,860
FAST FACTS
MotorDonkey's proprietary vehicle data identifies every significant version of each model so that you can compare and decide. Ordered by price from low to high, here are the versions of the 2024 Ford Explorer that you need to be aware of, along with our expert analysis and recommendations.
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We hope you like Ford's 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, because it's what you're going to find in most Explorers. Fuel economy isn't great for a four-banger, but the acceleration is fairly impressive.
Adding all-wheel drive only subtracts one mile per gallon from the Explorer's fuel economy. It's probably worth the $2k stretch if you think you'll use it.
It's unfortunate that you have to pay at least 50 large to get Ford's satisfying twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 under the Explorer's hood, but if you're trying to decide, this is the engine you want. Don't get hung up on how close the performance numbers seem to be; the V6 is in a different league when you put your foot down. The only question (assuming you're cool with the price) is whether you want the sporty ST, which is also the cheapest Explorer V6, or else the fancier King Ranch or Platinum.
Whether you add AWD for $2k or not, the Explorer ST is a kickass SUV.
If you're disinclined to pursue the sport-oriented Explorer ST, you can still have the righteous 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 in the luxurious King Ranch or Platinum trim — it comes standard in both.
Adding AWD to a non-ST Explorer with the twin-turbo V6 comes with a familiar $2k upcharge.
Publisher and Donkey-in-Chief
Josh has been reviewing cars professionally since joining Edmunds.com fresh out of grad school in 2008, personally driving most new cars on the market every year since. He also served as the project manager for Edmunds' expert vehicle rankings from their inception in 2018, building the product out from the back end to the front end. Josh is a card-carrying member of the Motor Press Guild and a lifelong car nut who has tested, compared and critiqued a ridiculous number of cars in his career.
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