The 2024 Ford Explorer slots under the full-size Expedition and offers a spacious big SUV for less money. There are still three rows of seats and plenty of room for cargo. The latest portion of changes added the ST model, and a hybrid version is one of the highlights. As you can see, the SUV comes with a few options under the hood. But, the Explorer EV could also join the lineup in 2024.
Engine options are not the only choices you will have to make. The base Explorer is competitive, but you can upgrade the SUV and make it a premium vehicle. The Platinum edition is the top trim if we check features, while the ST brings the best performance. The most efficient one is hybrid.
Besides all the advantages, there are a few things that can be better for the 2024 Ford Explorer. For example, the space in the rear row is tight. Also, optional upgrades are not cheap. Also, some drivers complained about wind noise while driving on the highway at higher speeds.
Standard Configuration
The base SUV combines a 2.3-liter turbo-four engine and a ten-speed automatic transmission. It sends power to the rear wheels by default and you can upgrade the ride with an AWD. Premium fuel is not required for the best performances. The company opted for a four-pot engine, although the SUV is pretty heavy. Well, some other flagship vehicles are using it, such as the Mustang muscle car, F-150 truck, and Bronco SUV. A four-banger cracks 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
The standard package also includes a nice list of features. LED lamps are there, as well as the power liftgate. Tri-zone climate control, power-adjustable driver’s bucket, and foldable second and third row are highlights of the interior. The center of the infotainment is an 8-inch screen, which becomes bigger at higher trim levels. The most popular smartphone services are also there.
Upgrading the 2024 Ford Explorer
There are a few optional packages available for the same drivetrain. We recommend the XLT. The leather steering wheel, captain’s chairs in the middle row, and heated front buckets are worth upgrades, while the price still stays at a reasonable level. The ST-Line and Limited models are better, but you will have to pay $7,000 or $8,000 more to get either of these. Add a bit more and you can buy the true ST with a more powerful engine. If you plan an off-road drive, then the 2024 Ford Explorer Timberline is the right choice. This model features systems that will enhance the adventure. Of course, the 4×4 is standard, as well as all-terrain tires, special suspension setup, limited-slip differential, and unibody skid plates. The Timberline also comes with a touch of luxury with simulated leather upholstery.
Turbocharged V6 Engine
This is the main upgrade of the 2024 Ford Explorer ST. However, the same powerplant is available for King Ranch and Platinum packages. Sport suspension and paddle shifters make the ride more convenient. Seats are also revisited for the ST model. A 3.0-liter mill can deliver 400 hp and 415 lb-ft. The SUV sprints 0-60 mph in 5 seconds.
King Ranch is a premium package with wooden accents inside the cabin. The gauge display is digitalized. Front seats offer a massage function. B&O installs an advanced sound system with 14 speakers. There are no too many features left for the Explorer Platinum. This edition takes the position at the top of the lineup with the highest price you are paying for 21-inch wheels, automatic parking, and a genuine leather interior.
2024 Ford Explorer EV
A hybrid version of the SUV will be there again. A V6 petrol unit is paired with an electric battery to improve the gas mileage. Also, compared to the base setup, the Explorer hybrid is making more power. A 3.3-liter unit delivers 318 hp and 322 lb-ft. Interesting, Ford opted for a six-cylinder engine and extra power, while its big rival, Toyota Highlander can make 35 mpg thanks to the combo of a four-cylinder mill and a larger electric motor. The 2024 Explorer Hybrid returns 27/28 mpg. On the highway, it is the same result as the turbo-four engine can do. The main improvement is for the city cruising.
The 2024 Ford Explorer EV is currently the hottest rumor about the next upgrade. Well, according to some sources, this electric SUV was supposed to come out earlier, but the production is postponed. The Explorer EV is about to use the new MEB platform. The company probably wants to compete with Hummer EUV. Mach E is already in production, but the Explorer is going to sit above this EV. The price will be between $45,000 and $50,000. The expected range is 200-250 miles, and high-end configurations will be able to go 300 miles before recharging. Advanced drive modes and safety options will be added for the 2024 Explorer EV, as well as the new technologies.
