The 2017 Ford Explorer will feature a new XLT Sports Appearance package, as well as interior enhancements. A hands-free liftgate will be standard on Sports models, while Sync 3 will become offered on the XLT and come regularly on the Limited, Sport, and Platinum versions.
The 2017 Ford Explorer SUV offers three-row seating, can hold up to seven passengers and is offered in front-wheel drive and all-wheel travel configurations.
Ford offers the Explorer in five different trim levels including the base, XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum. Power comes from a 3. 5-liter V -6 engine for the foundation, XLT, and Small, with the 2. 3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost I -4 engine available. For the Sport and Platinum models, power comes in the form of a 3. 5-liter twin-turbo Sixth is v -6. All engine options will be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
For 2017, the Ford Explorer keeps the same features and engine lineup from the previous model year, with the new XLT Sports Appearance package the biggest update. Offering some of the Sport model’s styling upgrades without the added price or EcoBoost V -6 engine, the XLT Sport Appearance bundle adds 20- inch Magnetic Gray wheels, a Magnetic Grey grille, mirror caps, and rear applique, Ebony Black body side cladding, a black roof rack, and an Explorer hood badge. Inside, the fresh package will add Dark Earth Gray leather front seats, Dark Globe Grey Miko suede for seat backs and inserts with an Umber scrim and door cut inserts, Umber contrast stitching, and Explorer logo floor mats.
The Explorer XLT will also offer the newer SYNC 3 infotainment system, while the Limited, Sport and Platinum Eagle models offer it as a standard feature.
The 2017 Ford Expedition features standard front, front-side, and curtain airbags, a third-row safety canopy, front passenger knee airbag, and rear outboard inflatable seatbelts. For the brand-new model 12 months, Ford has added adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support to the Blind Spot Information System. Inflatable back safety belts have also been added as a standalone option for the Explorer XLT model. Lane keeps assist and lane departure caution will only end up being provided on Small and Platinum versions .
The Ford Explorer was refreshed for 2016, sporting a new look and upgrades to the engine and feature content. The 2017 Explorer doesn’t change much but provides a new sports package to the XLT trim, as well as additional security features.
In a 2016 Ford Explorer First Drive review, we said that the seating is more inboard than necessary, making it difficult to get in and out of the vehicle. Throttle input from the non-EcoBoost Sixth is v -6 and 2. 3-liter EcoBoost engines aren’t great, but the 3. 5-liter EcoBoost found in the Sport and Platinum models offer better acceleration and engaging driving experience.