As the sun set on September 2023, the auto industry witnessed an intriguing shift in the hierarchy of midsize SUV sales in the USA. Despite trailing year-to-date (YTD) sales of the Toyota Highlander by 1,800 units, the Ford Explorer strategically outsold its competition to proudly nestle into the #2 spot, just behind the enduring Jeep Grand Cherokee. It’s not simply a victory in numbers; it’s a testament to the vehicle’s perennial appeal and the brand’s strategic offerings through a diverse spectrum of trim packages. Let’s navigate through the sea of options provided by Ford Explorer, dissecting the trim packages and diving into their respective pricing.
Base and XLT – The Entry Portals
1. Base ($38,355 2WD, $40,355 4WD)
The Ford Explorer Base model offers a gateway into the Explorer universe, ensuring essential features without sacrificing comfort and performance. With its 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, the Base model provides a spirited drive. Inside, patrons find an 8-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and Wi-Fi capability, ensuring connectivity and entertainment are not compromised.
2. XLT ($40,165 2WD, $42,165 4WD)
The Ford Explorer XLT nudges a step higher, infusing a touch more luxury and tech. It garners respect with its signature LED signature lighting, a power liftgate, and intelligent access with a push-button start. The creature comforts extend to a 10-way power driver’s seat and a 6-way power passenger seat, underlining a smooth ride with ergonomic luxury.
ST-Line and Timberline – Where Luxury Meets Ruggedness
3. ST-Line ($47,950 2WD, $49,950 4WD)
The Explorer ST-Line shouts sportiness while echoing luxury. From its striking exterior with unique black-out detailing to the plush, red-stitched interior, it’s a tangible journey through meticulous craftsmanship. The addition of a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel cluster and a heated steering wheel intertwines technological sophistication with tactile delight.
4. Timberline ( $50,925 4WD)
Born to explore the unexplored, the Explorer Timberline, only available in 4WD, is built for off-road adventures. With steel skid plates, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and a robust 2.3L EcoBoost engine, it guarantees not to shudder when the asphalt fades away.
Limited and ST – Where Elegance Elegantly Powers Through
5. Limited ($49,015 2WD, $51,015 4WD)
Embracing you with its leather-trimmed interior and ambient lighting, the Explorer Limited package is a cocoon of luxury. Enhanced active noise cancellation ensures that the cabin remains serenely isolated from the external world’s hustle and bustle.
6. ST ($51,600 2WD, $53,600 4WD)
Where power and elegance converge, the Explorer ST breathes life with its 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, assuring a pulse-quickening ride. This trim immerses you into a world where the B&O sound system and intelligent adaptive cruise control seamlessly intertwine with raw, unbridled power.
Platinum and King Ranch – The Zenith of Luxury and Heritage
7. Platinum ($55,865 2WD, $57,865 4WD)
The Explorer Platinum trim is the epitome of luxury within the Explorer lineup. With a tri-diamond perforated leather seating, a twin-panel moonroof, and a 3.0L EcoBoost engine, it effortlessly melds refined luxury with assertive performance.
8. King Ranch ($56,120 2WD, $58,120 4WD)
Imbued with the spirit of the iconic ranch in Texas, The Explorer King Ranch weaves a rich tale of heritage and rugged elegance. The interior is adorned with genuine Mesa Del Rio leather and Sapele wood, making it a tangible journey through meticulously crafted luxury.
Wrapping It Up
In providing a veritable kaleidoscope of trim options, Ford positions the Explorer to appeal to a broad spectrum of desires and needs. From the budget-friendly, yet well-equipped Base model to the indulgent luxury of the King Ranch, patrons find a multitude of options to satisfy divergent preferences.
Perhaps this versatility is the unspoken hero behind the Ford Explorer’s ascent in the sales charts. In a market where the demands of utility, comfort, and performance entwine with the strings of affordability and luxury, Ford has masterfully orchestrated a lineup that endeavors to sing a melodious tune to a wide array of automotive souls.
The Ford Explorer isn’t merely a vehicle; it’s a meticulously crafted tapestry where every thread is a choice, and every weave is a nod to the multifaceted desires of the modern motorist. As it revs into the future, the Explorer continues to chart a course through the vast, often tumultuous seas of the automotive industry, finding its harbor in the hearts of those who navigate towards its iconic emblem.
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Note: Prices mentioned are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices as provided including destination charges, but do not include taxes, or other fees. Always confirm the final drive-away price with your dealer.