Used Ford Explorer Buying Guide

With three rows of seating, modern gadgets, and a strong performance, the used Ford Explorer has wide-ranging appeal. Not to mention buying used can help you land a great price on one of these family haulers! Our used Explorer buying guide examines how these midsize crossovers have evolved in recent years, so you know where to look for the features you crave.

Sixth-Generation Explorers: 2020-Current Model

These Explorers revive early ideas about how rugged an SUV should be, returning to the rear-wheel-drive platform. Of course, all-wheel drive is still available to help you maximize traction on the trail. On the flip side, though, these used Explorers stick with the modern crossover body style, with their car-like chassis, so they remain very agile. This combination — rear-wheel drive and a unibody frame — contribute to these used Explorers’ best-in-class drive. They can also tow more than previous models, with max ratings of 5,600 pounds.

The sixth-generation used Explorers are available as eight trim models: base, XLT, Limited, ST-Line, Timberline, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. Each adds a longer list of comfort and convenience features to the last, but all are handsomely equipped with modern amenities.

Throughout the trim lineup, you’ll find three powertrain options, all of which are linked to a 10-speed automatic transmission:

• Standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque)
• ST, King Ranch, Platinum: turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft in ST and King Ranch, and 365 hp, 380 in Platinum)
• Optional for Limited, Platinum: 3.3L hybrid V6 (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)

Ford continued to update these Explorers throughout this generation. Here’s a look at the major changes, according to model year:

• 2021: The hybrid powertrain is now optional for the top-tier Platinum trim model. The new Timberline trim model, built for the trail, arrives.
• 2022: ST models are now available with optional rear-wheel drive. A new ST-Line trim model, which features sporty exterior design, debuts.

Fifth-Generation Explorers: 2011-2019

These used Ford Explorers are big on tech features, including smartphone-friendly infotainment, and quiet comfort. They’re also known for their smooth, strong ride. Just like the modern Explorer, these used crossover SUVs offer all-wheel drive for a sportier performance. Unlike the modern Explorer, however, these models come standard with front-wheel drive. Compared to previous models, this generation was the first to implement a car-like chassis, doing away with the truck-style, body-on-frame platform.

When this generation began, there were three trim models: base, XLT, and Limited. By the end, though, two more models had joined the lineup, the Sport and Platinum.

These used Explorers feature one of three engine options:

• Standard 3.5-liter V6 (290 horsepower, 255 lb-ft of torque)
• Optional turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (240 hp, 270 lb-ft)
• Optional turbo 2.3L (280 hp, 310 lb-ft)

These are the important changes from this generation of used Explorers:

• 2012: The first EcoBoost engine debuts, offering an excellent balance of power and efficiency.
• 2013: Standard equipment now includes a front passenger knee airbag. Models with xenon headlamps now include automatic high beams. The Sport trim model arrives. The Limited is available with lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and a heated steering wheel.
• 2014: Automatic headlamps become standard. Heated second-row seats are standard for the luxurious Limited model.
• 2016: Thanks to a mid-cycle refresh, these Explorers feature new styling, revised suspension tuning, and upgraded safety systems. There’s also a new top-of-the-line trim model, the Platinum. The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is discontinued, replaced by the more powerful 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
• 2017: The MyFord Touch infotainment system is discontinued, replaced by the new SYNC 3 system.
• 2018: These Explorers feature new front and rear exterior styling. And a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot is now available.