2017 Ford Explorer review
Ford Explorer highlights
Customer rating
Pros
- Standard comfort and convenience
- Powerful engine options
- Lots of cargo space
Cons
- Can feel a bit large out on the road
- Third-row space is tight
- Dated design is at the end of the fifth generation (2011-2019)
Mileage (EPA estimate)
16 city, 22 highway, 18 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
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Do-it-all family SUV
The Explorer is a must-have on your test drive list, and the 2017 is a great place to start. Ford's versatile SUV has some great trim levels to choose from, including Base, XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum. You'll get a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces a solid 290 horsepower. Or if you are a bit more mpg-focused, an optional turbocharged 2.3L makes 270 horsepower. Those looking to max out the horsepower should look for the optional turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine with a stout 365 horsepower. There is definitely a 2017 Explorer for every need.
All Ford Explorer years
Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Ford Explorer generation from 2012 to 2025
What is new for the 2017 Ford Explorer?
- Explorer trims have been upgraded with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard equipment this year.
- Leather & Suede Seats and Seat Massagers features are now available as options on select trims.
- The Platinum trim now comes with Vinyl Seats as standard equipment.
- The Sport trim now comes with Heated Steering Wheel, Power Hatch/Deck Lid, and Navigation System as standard equipment.
Ford Explorer photos
5 reasons to buy the 2017 Ford Explorer
1. Three engine options
Start with the V6 engine that puts out 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque (standard on Base, XLT, and Limited). Or, for those who are a bit more mpg conscious, you can find an optional turbo 2.3L four-cylinder engine making 270 horsepower that gets an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined city/highway. For those needing a bit more power, search out lots for a turbo 3.5L V6 engine that puts out a healthy 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque (Explorer Sport and Platinum).
2. Lots of standard features
Even though it is called the "Base" trim, it has many great standard features. You'll find stuff like automatic LED headlights, LED taillights, rear privacy glass, and handy roof rails. Interior standard features include air-conditioning, rearview camera, cruise control, rear climate controls, a 60/40-split second-row seat, a 50/50-split third-row seat, plus a six-way power driver seat.
3. Optional extras
There are some great packages available as well. Use our features filter to find the 201A package, and you'll get upgrades like a larger touchscreen (eight inches vs. the standard 4.2 inches), dual-zone automatic climate control, remote start, an eight-way power passenger seat, and a nine-speaker sound system. Or you can find the 202A package with upgrades like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and front parking sensors.
5. Top spec trims
Those with a need to max out the luxury factor should search our lots for the Explorer Platinum, which has upgraded leather upholstery, a dual-panel sunroof, aluminum and wood interior trim, and a premium Sony® audio system. Or, if you want a sportier experience, look for the Explorer Sport, which has 20-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension, and more. Both trim levels also get the largest 365 horsepower engine.
4. More space for fun
Seating for seven is a great place to start, with captain's chairs in the second row and a folding bench in the back. However, the 2017 Explorer has a few more tricks to help you maximize the fun on your next outing. With the seats folded, you'll get 21 cu-ft of space behind the third row, with a maximum of 80.7 cu-ft of space. That means more room for friends, family, and gear out on the open road.
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Ratings & reliability
Customer ratings
4.3 out of 5
45 customer reviews| 5 Stars | 28 |
|---|---|
| 4 Stars | 9 |
| 3 Stars | 4 |
| 2 Stars | 2 |
| 1 Star | 2 |
RepairPal gave the Ford Explorer an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Ford Explorer 23rd out of 32 among Midsize SUVs.
View RepairPal's full rating of the Ford ExplorerFord Explorer features and specs
Base 2WD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- ABS Brakes
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bluetooth Technology
- CD Audio
- Cloth Seats
- Cruise Control
- Fold-Away Third Row
- Overhead Airbags
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Air Conditioning
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Sync System
- Third Row Seat
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- Full Roof Rack
- Parking Sensors
- Running Boards
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
Front Wheel Drive (2WD)
Engine size
2.3L
Horsepower
280
Torque (ft-lbs)
310
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
18.6
Wheelbase
112.8"
Overall length
198.3"
Width
78.9"
Height
70"
Leg room
F 42.9"/M 39.5"/R 32"
Head room
F 41.4"/M 40.6"/R 37.8"
Front tires
P245/60HR18
Rear tires
P245/60HR18
Seating capacity
7
Max towing capacity
200/2000 lbs.
Transmission
Automatic
2017 Ford Explorer FAQ
The 2017 Ford Explorer is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- Platinum: 16 MPG City and 22 MPG Highway
- Base: 17 MPG City and 24 MPG Highway
- Limited: 19 MPG City and 27 MPG Highway
- XLT: 17 MPG City and 24 MPG Highway
- Sport: 16 MPG City and 22 MPG Highway
The Ford Explorer received a rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars from RepairPal, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks the Ford Explorer as 22 out of 32 among Midsize SUV
The 2017 Ford Explorer has received an average 4.3 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2017 Ford Explorer, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2017 Ford Explorer Reviews.
The 2017 Ford Explorer has a maximum towing capacity of between 2000 and 5000 pounds, when properly equipped. Various factors may impact towing capacity, including weight of passengers, cargo, and options/accessories.
Here is what's new for the 2017 Ford Explorer:
- Flex Fuel Vehicle
- Apple CarPlay
- Android Auto
- Seat Massagers
- Leather & Suede Seats
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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