2023 Ford Explorer
A representative image of a sixth-generation Ford Explorer (2020 ST-Line shown, as exterior styling for 2023 was largely unchanged)
Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company
Production	2022–2023 (for 2023 model year)
Assembly	Chicago, Illinois, United States (Chicago Assembly)
Class	Mid-size crossover SUV
Body style	5-door SUV
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel drive / all-wheel drive
Platform	Ford CD6 platform
Related	Lincoln Aviator
Predecessor	2022 Ford Explorer
Successor	2024 Ford Explorer

The 2023 Ford Explorer is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured by Ford Motor Company. It represents the fourth model year of the sixth generation Explorer, which was introduced for the 2020 model year. The 2023 Explorer continued to offer a range of powertrains, three-row seating, and various trim levels designed to cater to different customer needs, from basic utility to luxury and performance-oriented variants. It competed with other three-row SUVs such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride, and Chevrolet Traverse.

Model Year Changes[edit]

For the 2023 model year, the Ford Explorer saw minimal significant changes, largely carrying over the features and design elements from the 2022 model. Ford focused on refining existing packages and options rather than introducing a major refresh, which was anticipated for later model years in some markets. The vehicle continued to be built on the rear-wheel-drive-based Ford CD6 platform.

Powertrain[edit]

The 2023 Explorer offered a selection of engines catering to different performance and efficiency preferences.

Engines[edit]

• 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: Standard on Base, XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, and Limited trims. Produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque.
• 3.0L EcoBoost V6: Standard on ST, King Ranch, and Platinum trims.
  • In the ST trim, this engine is tuned to produce 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
  • In King Ranch and Platinum trims, it produces 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque (though some model years saw these trims also adopt the 400 hp version).
• 3.3L Hybrid V6: Available on Limited and Platinum trims. Combines a naturally aspirated V6 engine with an electric motor for a total system output of 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque.

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) was standard on most trims, with intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an option or standard on higher trims like ST, Timberline, King Ranch, and Platinum.

Transmission[edit]

All 2023 Ford Explorer models were equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Trim Levels[edit]

The 2023 Explorer was offered in a range of trim levels:

• Base: The entry-level model with essential features.
• XLT: Adds more comfort and convenience features over the Base model.
• ST-Line: Offers the sporty appearance of the ST trim but with the more fuel-efficient 2.3L EcoBoost engine.
• Timberline: An off-road-oriented trim featuring increased ground clearance, underbody skid plates, all-terrain tires, and standard AWD.
• Limited: A more upscale trim with leather upholstery, premium sound systems, and additional technology features. Also available with the hybrid powertrain.
• ST: A performance-focused model with the 3.0L EcoBoost V6, sport-tuned suspension, and unique styling cues.
• King Ranch: A luxury-oriented trim with a Western theme, featuring premium Del Rio leather seats, unique badging, and additional comfort features.
• Platinum: The top-tier luxury trim, offering premium materials, advanced technology, and the powerful 3.0L EcoBoost V6 or available hybrid powertrain.

Safety and Technology[edit]

The 2023 Explorer came standard with Ford Co-Pilot360™, a suite of driver-assist technologies. Standard features typically included:

• Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert
• Lane-Keeping System
• Rear View Camera
• Auto High-Beam Headlamps

Available advanced safety and driver-assist features included Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, Evasive Steering Assist, and a 360-degree camera. Infotainment was provided by Ford’s SYNC 3 system, typically with an 8-inch touchscreen as standard. A larger 10.1-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen was available on higher trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were standard. FordPass Connect™ with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot was also standard.

Interior[edit]

The 2023 Ford Explorer provided three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers, or six if equipped with optional second-row captain’s chairs. Cargo space was competitive for its class, with a versatile area expandable by folding down the second and third-row seats. Interior materials and finishes varied by trim level, ranging from durable cloth in base models to premium leather and wood accents in the King Ranch and Platinum trims.

Reception[edit]

The 2023 Ford Explorer generally received positive reviews for its powerful engine options, particularly the EcoBoost V6s, spacious passenger and cargo room, and available technology. The ST model was often praised for its sporty handling and performance. The Timberline trim was noted for its enhanced off-road capability. Criticisms sometimes included the interior material quality on lower trims when compared to some rivals, and the ride quality could be firm, especially on models with larger wheels. The hybrid model offered improved fuel economy but was sometimes considered less refined than some competitor hybrid systems. Overall, the Explorer remained a strong seller in the competitive mid-size SUV segment.

See also[edit]

• Ford Explorer (full model history)
• Lincoln Aviator (platform-mate)
• List of sport utility vehicles

References[edit]