2021 Ford Explorer review

2021 Ford Explorer Review: 

A year removed from a redesign, the Ford Explorer is a midsize three-row SUV. The 2021 model added a new King Ranch trim, which slots between the Limited and the top-of-the-line Platinum in terms of equipment. There's also the new Timberline trim. Its lifted ride height, all-terrain tires, limited-slip rear differential, and steel skid plates combine to make this the most capable Explorer for going off-road and getting out into nature.

While the Explorer has several strong qualities, it wasn't Edmunds' top pick for three-row SUVs at this point in time. The Kia Telluride surpasses the Explorer in interior space and refinement, offering more room for both passengers and cargo despite similar dimensions. Still, the Explorer remains a strong contender for those who prioritize a used SUV with a powerful engine and excellent handling.

The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV that ranks 19th out of 26 in its class, according to RepairPal®. Its average rating is 3.5 out of 5.0. It has about average ownership costs, with an average annual repair cost of $732.

• Technology

• Comfort

• Cargo and storage

• Ease of use

• Driving

What tech does the 2021 Ford Explorer have?

Connectivity

Standard features on the Explorer include an eight-inch touchscreen, Ford's SYNC® infotainment system, and integration with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. Bluetooth® connectivity for audio and phone is also standard.

Infotainment

Ford's infotainment system presented usability challenges at this time due to a lack of physical shortcut buttons for essential functions like Home, Media, Map, and Back. Users were forced to rely on on-screen buttons, which were not consistently present across all menus, leading to an inconsistent experience. While basic functions were easily controlled by prominent physical volume, tune knobs, and pause/skip buttons, the screen's responsiveness could be erratic, with noticeable lag, for example, when tuning.

Edmunds recommends opting for Explorer models with the eight-inch screen over the 10.1-inch. Despite appearing larger, the 10.1-inch screen is nearly 1.5 inches narrower horizontally than the eight-inch option found on lower trims. Many users find it less intuitive to use, and its design resembles a tacked-on iPad.

Driver-Assist Tech

The Explorer includes a standard suite of driver-assist features such as automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, cross-traffic and blind-spot warning alerts, and automatic high beams. While these systems generally perform well, the alert sounds can be difficult to distinguish, and the lane centering system may occasionally misinterpret that your hands are not on the wheel. Higher trim levels offer additional features, either as standard or optional.

How comfortable is the 2021 Ford Explorer? 

Front Seating

The front seats are notably supportive and comfortable. Look for Explorers with heated and cooled seat options. However, Edmunds advises against the optional massaging seats, as their internal mechanism can create an uncomfortable, lumpy sensation when not in use.

Rear Seating

While the front seats offer good comfort, the second and third rows progressively lose cushioning. The third row is particularly cramped, with flat, unsupportive seating and limited legroom, making it only useful for children and, even then, perhaps only for short trips. Though most adults are fine in the second row, overall rear passenger comfort remains a notable weakness.

Ride Quality and Interior Noise

The Ford Explorer delivers a smooth ride, effortlessly absorbing city bumps and offering comfort on the highway. However, the cabin can be noisy, especially with the more powerful V6 engine. Edmunds' evaluations also noted some creaks and groans, which raise concerns about its overall build quality. Edmunds recommends a comprehensive test drive on diverse road surfaces to help you form your own opinion, as individual experiences may vary.

Does the 2021 Ford Explorer have good storage?

Cargo 

The Explorer offers a competitive 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind its third row, which is on par with other midsize three-row SUVs. However, this is less than the Kia Telluride's 21 cubic feet. One significant advantage of the Explorer's cargo area is its flat loading surface, which simplifies the loading of items. Furthermore, the third row folds flat effortlessly, expanding the available space.

Storage

As with most midsize SUVs, storage in the second and third rows is mostly limited to door pockets and a small shelf. Overall, small-item storage is adequate, with a convenient shelf below the center touchscreen for small items. The compact center console is also functional.

How easy is the 2021 Ford Explorer to use?

Entry, Exit, and Car Seats

Getting into the front seats of the Explorer is a breeze thanks to the wide door openings. However, passengers in the middle and rear seats might not be as comfortable. Kneeroom and legroom in the middle row aren't really competitive for its class, and taller adults probably won't be impressed with the third row. Getting back there can also be a bit tricky if the rear doors can't open all the way, since space is tight between the big door map pockets and those prominent rear wheel arches. While the third row has a handy power-folding feature, you do have to raise it from the hatch area.

Interior Layout and Visibility

The driver has plenty of room up front and a highly adjustable driving position, which helps with all-around visibility. The large windows and decent-sized mirrors mean you can see outside pretty well.

What’s the 2021 Ford Explorer like to drive?

Driving

The Ford Explorer is a capable three-row SUV, perfect for drivers who value a combination of balanced handling and strong acceleration. It stands out from competitors with its impressive agility, light feel in turns, and exceptional grip.

Ford has optimized the Explorer's power. Its standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine easily outperforms rivals, and for those desiring more, the Explorer ST offers an exhilarating turbo V6. Both engines are coupled with a 10-speed transmission, which delivers responsive gear shifts, though it can occasionally be hesitant during city driving with light throttle inputs.

Towing

When properly equipped, the Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds

. This is comparable to other vehicles in its class and should be enough for most drivers' needs, allowing for towing a midsize camper. However, for those needing to tow heavier loads, a full-size truck or truck-based SUV such as the F-150 or Expedition would be more suitable.

Fuel Economy/Electric Efficiency

The Explorer's fuel economy varies significantly, with EPA estimates of 20-27 mpg combined

, depending on the engine and drive type (all-wheel drive or not). For instance, the all-wheel-drive hybrid model achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg combined. This is only 2 mpg more than a standard Explorer equipped with the base turbocharged engine. In Edmunds' testing, this hybrid model averaged 23.3 mpg over 610 miles of mixed driving, falling slightly short of the EPA's estimate.

EPA Fuel Economy Estimates 2021