2018 Ford Explorer review

1. Skillful engines

The 2018 Ford Explorer comes standard with a 290-hp 3.5L V6 with 255 lb-ft of torque that meets any driving need—whether you carpool, commute or like to road trip. For a boost in power and gas mileage, the available 280-hp turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder (optional on 2018 Ford Explorer XLT and standard on Limited) pushes out 310 lb-ft of torque and returns an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined with FWD.

 In addition, all 2018 trims come equipped with a six-speed SelectShift^® automatic transmission and available AWD for added traction on rough roads or in challenging weather conditions.

2. Sport and Platinum trims

The 2018 Ford Explorer is also available in Sport and Platinum trims, anchored by a twin-turbo 3.5L V6 with 365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. This robust engine pairs standard AWD and a Terrain Management System with Normal, Mud, Rut, Sand, Snow, Gravel, and Grass modes to allow you to shift on the fly to tackle changing conditions with confidence. Additionally, the 2018 Ford Explorer Sport and Platinum trims feature premium additions, such as leather-trimming on the Sport and heated and cooled front multi-contour seats on the Platinum.

3. Spacious three-row cabin

The 2018 Explorer seats six or seven passengers across its three rows, making this the ultimate family hauler. A second-row bench seat comes standard with tip-and-slide functionality to customize legroom. Second-row captain's chairs are also available and recline for more passenger comfort on long drives. Tall teens and average-sized adults will also ride comfortably in the third row. In addition, there's no shortage of storage through the 2018 Explorer with plenty of cupholders, door pockets, a large center console, and a flat-load floor with 81.7 cu-ft of cargo space with the second and third rows folded.

4. Connectivity features

In addition to its roomy cabin, the 2018 Ford Explorer includes intuitive infotainment features for extra convenience for all your travels. The standard SYNC^® system consists of a 4.2-inch display and voice commands. There is also the available SYNC^® 3 (standard on Limited and higher trims), which boasts Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ compatibility with two smart-charging USB ports. 2018 Explorer Limited and higher trims also offer available Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities, so your passengers can connect up to 10 devices to stream, message, and surf on road trips.

 Adding the optional rear-seat DVD entertainment system (available on all trims) makes long drives more amusing.

5. Helpful technologies

To help you maneuver in and out of parking spots, this 2018 model includes a rearview camera with backup assist grid lines and a washer for greater visibility. 2018 Ford Explorer XLT and higher trims also come with a reverse sensing system to avoid obstacles and pedestrians when backing up. And if you're looking for more driving aids, Ford offers a package with helpful features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with brake support, blind-spot monitoring, and more (standard on Platinum; optional on LXT and higher).