2023 Ford Explorer, the choice is yours

The 2023 Ford Explorer large SUV in many ways is a model of its kind. Its distinctive silhouette and proven power make it top of its class for many enthusiasts. It's also the variety of trim levels that make it so versatile and spectacular.

Making a choice from the series of versions really depends on your needs and your desires. If you're into more dynamic sporty driving, you'll want to go with the ST model which has plenty of power to spare. If style is more important to you, than raw performance, the ST-Line version might be the right choice, with its sporty look but a more conservative engine.

The adventure and off-road enthusiast will have no choice but to consider the Timberline model, a version introduced only last year, but which is a big hit with its off-road capabilities and adventurous looks. Finally, you can turn to the base version, XLT, whose standard equipment will surprise you. Or the top-of-the-line Limited and Platinum models, which offer everything you can imagine in terms of comfort.

You can turn to power and economy combined. This is where the Ford Explorer Hybrid becomes a wise choice.

A Range of Engines

The different versions of the Ford Explorer don't just rely on cosmetic changes. They also feature a variety of engines that are both spectacular and impressive.

Most versions come standard with a 2.3-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder that develops 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This is a spectacular combination, as it's paired with a familiar Ford 10-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.

The Platinum is powered by a 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6 turbocharged engine with 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. It too, relies on the all-wheel drive and automatic transmission to stand out. In fact, it dominates almost all of the competition with such power.

The Explorer ST is equipped with an upgraded version of the same engine that develops 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Forget about hesitation, the big Ford Explorer ST is lively and dynamic.

Finally, the Explorer Hybrid combines a naturally aspirated 3.3-litre V6 with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery under the passenger side of the cabin. Total power is 318 horsepower. Thus equipped, the Ford Explorer Hybrid offers a fuel economy of 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres, with exceptional power.

That said, Ford has prioritized performance, even with the hybrid. You can see this with the towing capacity, which is 5,000 pounds for the hybrid. For non-hybrid Explorers, towing increases to 5,300 pounds for the 2.3-litre and 5,600 pounds for the 3.0-litre engines, two more figures that put the Ford Explorer at the top of its class.

Interestingly, the Ford Explorer also offers different driving modes that allow it to be efficient in all conditions, whether it's on a snowy or open surface.

Comfort and Safety

When it comes to safety, the 2023 Ford Explorer has CoPilot 360, the driver assistance package that Ford offers, which includes things like forward collision alert with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, blind spot and rear cross-traffic alert (optional on most competitors), automatic high beams, and a rearview camera with integrated windshield washer. Adaptive cruise control and reverse brake assist are also available features.

Inside, where there's plenty of room for all seven passengers, the Ford Explorer offers optional heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and the Sync3 multimedia management system. It includes a large center screen, as well as full Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatibility.

The 2023 Ford Explorer's dashboard keeps things simple, and the customizable digital display makes it easy to see all the driving data at a glance. A comfort mode minimizes the data displayed to eliminate distractions.

Refined, spacious, comfortable, and capable of towing, the 2023 Ford Explorer hasn't changed much. But there's no need to change a winning recipe.