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What kind of car is the 2024 Ford Explorer? What does it compare to?
The Ford Explorer is a three-row family hauler that competes in a massive segment that includes other crossover SUVs such as the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride, and Hyundai Palisade.
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer a good SUV?
It’s a decent SUV, yes, but it’s not a good value relative to its competitors. Its spacious cabin and good safety features help earn its 6.5 out of 10 TCC Rating. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
What’s new for the 2024 Ford Explorer?
The Explorer Hybrid leaves the lineup, but otherwise, the Explorer carries over generally unchanged.
Ford casts a wide net with eight distinct trim levels. The ST-Line brings muscle car-inspired styling while the ST brings actual performance; the Timberline offers off-road capability and rugged body trim; the King Ranch elevates the Explorer to luxury quality. The cabin design is unmistakably Ford, with a low dash, simple console layout, and horizontal vents.
All trims feature a muscular exterior profile that emphasizes the rear-wheel-drive architecture, and two powertrains add variety to the trim lineup. Most families will be fine with the base turbo-4 and its 300 hp, but top trims get a turbo V-6 good for 400 hp.
Ford stands out from the rest of the segment by putting performance ahead of practicality, for better or for worse. If seven-passenger seating is a must, the base Explorer is the only option, and in any configuration, the third row will be a tight squeeze.
The 2024 Explorer earns good marks in crash tests and comes standard with active lane control, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitors.
Every Explorer also includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, power features, and cruise control. The XLT will be worth the step up for most shoppers, and adds heated power-adjustable front seats and captain’s chairs in the second row. Options include synthetic leather upholstery, remote start, a heated steering wheel, and 20-inch wheels.
How much does the 2024 Ford Explorer cost?
For 2024, the base Explorer costs $38,275, which includes a destination fee of $1,495. As of this writing, Ford hadn’t announced pricing for the full lineup, but the base model pricing aligns with the 2023 model. Budget another $2,000 for all-wheel drive and then there are incremental, but substantial increases until you hit the top-end King Ranch, at about $58,000.
Where is the 2024 Ford Explorer made?
It’s built in Ford’s production facility on the south side of Chicago.
