If you’re looking for an eye-catching SUV that offers a wide range of trims, multiple engine choices, and seats for up to seven, then the upcoming 2023 Ford Explorer is worth considering. Reportedly, the fresh new midsize 3-row SUV/crossover will arrive next year, featuring some upgrades. In general, we expect it to be a carryover model, but with much lighter and more sophisticated unibody construction.
On top of that, the Ford Explorer is one of the rarest SUV that offers four engine options. There is a 2.3-liter turbo-four EcoBoost, Hybrid powertrain, and a 3.0-liter V6 unit with two outputs.
2023 Ford Explorer Changes
The 2023 Ford Explorer lineup is changing a bit, and expect more attractive styling, especially choosing the ST variant. Compared to the last generation, the new one comes with a longer wheelbase, maximizes legroom for all three rows. The base XLT model comes with LED headlights/daytime running lights/taillights and attractive 18-inch alloy wheels. The ST is the highlight of the offer, and it has black grille mesh and side cladding on the lower body.
The platinum trim is our favorite choice that offers grille and side cladding with a satin-aluminum finish. This trim also comes with four chromed exhaust outlets. The Timberline model is one of the most equipped and expensive, featuring a unique appearance package. Unlike others, this one has Timberline badging, auxiliary lighting in the grille, special 18-inch gloss black wheels, unique tow hood badging, and more.
What’s New Through Trims for 2023?
Blue Oval has made a few tweaks to the upcoming 2023 Ford Explorer. First of all, the seating layout is unchanged, and this three-row SUV has enough room to fit seven passengers. According to Ford, every trim is updated, offering much more standard features. Starting with XLT trim, buyers will get heated seats, while an eight-way power-adjustable front passenger’s seat comes with the Limited, ST, and Platinum models. A Sport Appearance package is available on the XLT trim, and it adds Carbonized Gray 20-inch aluminum wheels, mesh grille with Carbonized Gray accents, unique lower-body cladding, dual exhaust outlets, and more. For a real sporty enthusiast, the manufacturer offers an ST trim, featuring a black grille with an ST badge, black grille, and dual exhaust tips.
Off-road fans may find the new Timberline trim interesting because it features lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, and more rugged exterior styling cues. Apart from that, the Limited trim offers much more standard features, including 12-speaker B&O audio system, 20-inch wheels, a heated and power-adjustable steering wheel, leather upholstery, a power-folding third row, and adaptive cruise control.
Engine Specs
The new 2023 Ford Explorer won’t offer any new powertrain at this point. That means we can expect once more the same choice of four units. The base variant comes with a potent 2.3-liter turbo-four EcoBoost unit that delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine uses a relatively new 10-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive (RWD). Of course, you can still get an all-wheel-drive system, but only optional. In our opinion, the best option is a Hybrid powertrain. This model consists of a 3.3-liter V6 engine and an electric motor, delivering 318 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of twists. Unlike the base model, the hybrid one comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with an option for all-wheel drive.
Lastly, the most potent powertrain is under the hood of the King Ranch, Platinum, and ST models. These variants are available with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 365 hp and 400 hp with the ST variant.
2023 Ford Explorer Price, Release Date
The fresh new 2023 Ford Explorer will reportedly arrive in the first half of 2022. There are many other models in the same class, but the Explorer is one of the most attractive midsize three-row crossover SUVs that we saw.
It offers a beautiful design, a spacious cabin, and many advantages over its rivals. Blue Oval didn’t reveal its price, but we can expect it to starts at $33,500 for a base model, while upper trim levels should cost over $50,000.