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America's best-selling midsize SUV — 3-row seating, 300-hp turbocharged 4-cylinder, available hybrid.
ⓘ Editorial estimates. Not affiliated with Ford.
Every available trim — starting price, key features, and who it's for.
| Trim | Starting Price | Key Features & Who It's For |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $38,675 | FWD. 2.3L EcoBoost. SYNC 4. Most features buyers need. |
| XLT | $41,135 | Best value trim. Co-Pilot360. Heated seats. 18" wheels. |
| Limited | $51,300 | Leather. B&O audio. Panoramic roof. Premium feel. |
| ST-Line | $46,200 | Sport appearance. Handling-tuned. No performance engine. |
| ST | $58,550 | 2.3L High-Output 400hp. Performance tuned suspension. Fun. |
| Platinum | $56,800 | Max luxury. 21" wheels. Every luxury option standard. |
Always check your specific VIN for open recalls before purchasing any vehicle.
Every cost, reliability, and buying question answered on dedicated pages.
Full coverage estimates for a 40-year-old driver with a clean record. Avg: ~$156/mo across all trims.
| Trim | Monthly | Annual | vs Segment Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | $140/mo | $1,680/yr | Entry 3-row; lowest premium in lineup |
| XLT | $150/mo | $1,800/yr | Best-seller; moderate rate |
| Limited | $158/mo | $1,896/yr | Higher MSRP drives modest increase |
| ST-Line | $155/mo | $1,860/yr | Performance appearance; near-ST rates |
| ST | $172/mo | $2,064/yr | 400hp 3.0L V6 — performance surcharge |
| Platinum | $178/mo | $2,136/yr | Top trim; highest MSRP premium |
ⓘ Explorer insurance is above average for its 3-row SUV class — large vehicle MSRP, higher repair costs, and the 2020-2022 platform issues affected early claims history. 2023+ models significantly improved.
⚠️ Risk note: 2020–2022 Explorer had elevated first-year claims — check model year when quoting.
Always obtain 3+ personalized quotes from licensed insurers before purchasing. Rates vary by ZIP code, driver history, credit score, and annual mileage. These are rough editorial averages — not quotes.
NHTSA Recalls ↗
The most searched questions about the Explorer — answered with data.
Reliability depends heavily on the generation. The 2020-2023 Explorer (rear-wheel-drive platform) had documented transmission, software, and build quality issues — avoid these years. The 2025 redesign returns to a more conventional platform with dramatically improved early quality scores. For used buying, stick to 2019 and earlier, or 2025+.
Average full-coverage insurance for a Ford Explorer is $156/month for a 40-year-old driver with a clean record. This is $11/month below the national average for midsize SUVs. The ST performance trim costs approximately $185/month. The Explorer is generally affordable to insure relative to its size and capability.
A well-maintained Explorer with the 3.5L V6 (pre-2020 generation) can reach 200,000+ miles. The 2020-2023 Explorer with RWD platform has a more uncertain long-term outlook. The 2025+ Explorer is too new for long-term data. Average Explorer lifespan based on current data: 150,000-200,000 miles.
Yes — 3-row seating, 87.8 cu ft cargo with seats folded, and 5,600 lb tow rating make it practical for most family needs. The third row is tighter than a Traverse or Pilot. For genuine 3-row space for large adults, the Traverse or Pilot may be a better fit.
Buy Highlander if reliability is your primary concern — it has a significantly better long-term reliability record than the 2020-2023 Explorer. Buy Explorer if you prefer American brand support, want the optional ST performance package, or if you're buying a 2025+ model (which dramatically improves reliability). The Explorer has more powerful base engine and better towing capacity.
The Explorer ST is a performance-tuned variant with a 2.3L High-Output EcoBoost producing 400hp. It features sport suspension tuning, Brembo brakes, ST-badged interior, and performance-oriented all-season tires. It's one of the most powerful 3-row SUVs available and genuinely fun to drive — a real performance SUV, not just a badge package.