2017 Ford Explorer Review

Name: 2017 Ford Explorer Review
Brand: Ford

Price Range: $10,995 - $27,998

2017 Ford Explorer Platinum 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

2017 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV Exterior. Sport Appearance Package Shown.

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Edmunds' Expert Review

byJason Kavanagh^{Senior Vehicle Test Engineer
Jason joined Edmunds' testing team in 2006 as a vehicle testing engineer. Jason believes true appreciation of modern cars stems from owning really, really bad old ones.}

Pros

Plenty of high-tech features that are easy to use
Optional turbocharged V6 engine delivers plentiful power
Cabin is quiet and comfortable on the highway
Cargo space is generous behind the third row

Cons

Depending on trim level, feels big and ponderous from behind the wheel
Legroom in the second and third rows is subpar

What’s new

For 2017, the Ford Explorer is mechanically and visually unchanged save for a new appearance package (XLT Sport Appearance package) and modest reshuffling of the availability of a few features. Ford's latest Sync 3 infotainment system is available this year, replacing the previous MyFord Touch system.

Vehicle overview

Available with plenty of features and three distinctly different engines, the 2017 Ford Explorer has a lot to offer if you're shopping for a three-row crossover SUV. Its outstanding quietness and quality cabin trimmings elevate this practical do-all crossover to the front of the segment.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2017 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $2.93 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$182/mo

$217/mo

Avg. Large SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

A household name among American carbuyers, the Ford Explorer has evolved from its long-ago roots as a body-on-frame SUV into the comprehensively modern three-row crossover it is today. Depending on trim level and options (and how deep your pockets are), it can be downright luxurious. Our preference for the Sport arises from the "drives big" nature of other non-Sport trim levels — though comfortable, the soft suspension and numb steering of non-Sport models make their driving experience oddly ponderous.

Aside from that, though, there is an awful lot to credit to the Explorer. You can configure an Explorer that keeps things relatively basic, or you can go all-in on luxury. Versatility is a strong suit, too. You have your choice of three engines. You can get it with a second-row bench or captain's chairs and option the second and/or third row with power-folding functionality. Lots of cargo space is standard.

What's it like to live with?

To learn more about the Ford Escape of this generation, read our updates from a full year and more than 20,000 miles of living with a 2017 Ford Escape SE. We cover everything from seat comfort to real-world reliability. We were impressed with the performance from the Escape's turbocharged 2.0-liter engine but think it falls short in many other areas. Get the full scoop from our long-term test.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

4.5 / 5

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2016 Ford Explorer Sport (3.5L turbo V6; AWD; 6-speed automatic).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Explorer has received only revisions. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Explorer.

Scorecard

Overall	4.5 / 5
Driving	5.0
Comfort	4.5
Interior	3.5
Utility	3.5

Driving

5.0

Unlike other models dubbed "Sport," the 2017 Explorer Sport is indeed sporty, thanks to its turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, stiffer suspension tuning, quicker steering and our test vehicle's optional summer performance tires. The result is lots of speed and impressive handling and braking.

Acceleration

5.0

There's lots of "boost," not much "eco," with the EcoBoost V6. Has instant, effortless power anytime you touch the gas pedal. The six-speed automatic is smooth and smart about using the 350 lb-ft of torque; 0-60 mph takes just 6.3 seconds, which is excellent for a big three-row crossover.

Braking

4.5

The brakes don't feel overly powerful, but they get the job done. The pedal has a nice linear action around town, and it's easy to stop smoothly. We recorded a remarkable stopping distance from 60 mph of 108 feet, thanks largely to the (optional) sticky summer tires.

Steering

5.0

Well-tuned electric steering system and natural assist level; it turns in with immediacy. Good heft at speed but light enough for parking-lot duty. Feedback could be improved, but overall it's excellent for this class.

Handling

5.0

The Sport's stiffer suspension and optional performance tires transform the Explorer. Body roll is kept to a minimum, the tires give good grip and it doesn't feel floaty. The suspension does a good job soaking up midcorner bumps, too.

Drivability

4.0

The gas pedal can be a bit abrupt on initial tip-in. The optional adaptive cruise control is ultra-consistent and never varies by more than 1 mph; the transmission downshifts to maintain speed. Always-available power makes merging into fast traffic simple.

Off-road

3.5

The Explorer Sport comes with all-wheel drive, including a four-position controller for the Terrain Management System, letting you toggle between Normal, Mud/Ruts, Sand and Grass/Gravel/Snow. Still, this is all for enhancing on-pavement traction, not conquering trails.

Comfort

4.5

Given the 2017 Explorer Sport's handling prowess, we expected ride quality to suffer. We were wrong. Although it loses a small degree of overall plush compared to the regular Explorer, the tauter handling is worth the minor trade-off. The seats are comfy, except in the third row.

Seat comfort

4.0

The reasonably wide and flat front seats are cushy with good support. Nicely padded armrests. The optional second-row buckets have excellent comfort but no inner armrests. The third-row upper seatback is hard and has awkward outer armrests.

Ride comfort

4.0

The Sport's stiffer suspension tuning means you'll feel more bumps and ruts on the road than you will in a regular Explorer, but it's still pretty comfy. The 20-inch wheels make deep potholes harsh, but the suspension is surprisingly compliant given the improved handling.

Noise & vibration

4.0

A quiet SUV. The tires are unusually silent for their size and performance-bent. Wind noise is barely noticeable, too. At full throttle, the turbocharged V6 takes on a V8-like tonal quality.

Interior

3.5

We're glad Ford finally got rid of the touch-sensitive controls on the Explorer's center stack. We highly recommend the optional sliding second-row bucket seats — you lose a seat but gain comfort as well as better third-row access and space. Rear visibility is a problem.

Ease of use

3.5

All-new Sync 3 technology interface works far better than previous versions. Radio tuning uses a button; volume, a grippy knob. Handy, configurable gauge screens.

Getting in/getting out

4.0

The long and wide-opening front doors make for a big entryway. Noticeable step down from the second row; shorter-legged folks will brush their leg on the doorsill, but hitting heads is not an issue. Second-row captain's chairs make for easy third-row access.

Driving position

3.5

Most drivers will find it easy to get in a good position that feels comfortable and affords a good view. On the downside, once situated the armrests can be too far away for some to use comfortably.

Roominess

3.5

Super airy up front, with a long dash, loads of headroom and elbow space. Second-row captain's chairs recline and, unlike the standard bench seat, slide fore and aft. Third-row headroom is good for average-size adults, but knee- and footroom are extremely tight.

Visibility

3.0

Expansive windshield and tall windows. The windshield roof pillars are thick at the bottom, though, which hampers your ability to easily look through turns. The rear view is also limited by thick pillars. Getting the optional parking sensors and other driver safety aids will help out.

Quality

4.5

A well-made SUV. Plenty of soft-touch materials throughout the cabin; the steering wheel has quality leather; the trim pieces look good and fit together well. The only flaw we noticed was an occasional dash rattle that we couldn't pinpoint.

Utility

3.5

The cargo area's deep well is useful even if the total cargo volume isn't exceptional. There's a good variety of cabin storage overall.

Small-item storage

3.5

Anti-tip cupholders, long door pockets, a huge center console bin. The forward bin is covered but oddly shaped.

Cargo space

3.0

The deep well behind the third row provides a superior amount of space. The total capacity of 81.7 cubic feet is on the small end for the segment.

Child safety seat accommodation

Installing certain rear-facing child seats in the middle of the second row makes it difficult to use the outboard seat belts. Two child seats can fit easily in the outboard positions, but some seat manufacturers don't recommend using them in conjunction with Ford's optional inflatable seat belts.

Towing

4.0

Electronic trailer sway control and a Class III trailer tow package come standard on the Explorer Sport. Both the base V6 and this EcoBoost V6 are rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds, with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost at 3,000 pounds.

2017 Ford Explorer models

The 2017 Ford Explorer seats six or seven passengers, depending on how you equip it. There are five trim levels: base, XLT, Limited, Sport and Platinum. Three engines are available, and all models are equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Sport and Platinum have all-wheel drive only, while Base, XLT and Limited models are available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Base Explorers have the basics covered, but going up one notch to the XLT gets you a few extra features plus access to more desirable options. The Limited and Sport have similar features, while the Platinum tops off the Explorer line as the fully loaded trim.

Entry-level base models have the basics covered with their 3.5-liter V6 (290 horsepower, 255 pound-feet of torque), 18-inch wheels, rearview camera, cruise control, rear climate controls, a 60/40-split second-row seat, 50/50-split third-row seat, an eight-way power driver seat (with manual recline), a 4.2-inch dashboard display screen, Sync (Ford's voice-activated phone and entertainment interface), Bluetooth and a six-speaker sound system.

Going up one notch to the XLT trim adds a few features as standard, but the real draw is that it grants access to desirable options that aren't offered on base variants. We expect many buyers will find their needs met by an XLT with a few extra options added.

Base and XLT trims also offer an optional turbocharged 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (280 hp, 310 lb-ft of torque) engine. It's more fuel-efficient than the regular V6, but depending on how you drive, you might not realize a whole lot of savings. The V6 is our preferred choice of the two.

Limited models come with the turbo four-cylinder engine as standard (the V6 is optional) and add more comfort and convenience items such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt-and-telescope steering wheel, an 8-inch touchscreen display with the new Sync 3 interface, a nine-speaker sound system and power-folding third-row seats.

It's nice, but we prefer the more substantive changes ushered in by the Sport variant. It has most of the Limited's features but comes with a gutsy turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 (365 hp, 360 lb-ft of torque) and sport-oriented suspension tuning.

Likewise, range-topping Platinum trim levels are offered solely with the turbo V6 but not the unique suspension and steering tuning of Sport models. Platinum variants make standard the features offered as options on lesser trim levels. The result is the kitchen sink of comfort and driver assistance features to suit the most well-heeled buyers. Highlights include a panoramic sunroof, a parking assistance system, adaptive cruise control, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel and a 12-speaker Sony audio system. For the Platinum, a rear-seat entertainment system and power-folding second-row captain's chairs are optional.

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Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

3.5/5Above Average

#23 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Ford Explorer from 2008-2022.}

$556/yr

vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

1.07x/yr

vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

16.8%

vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2017 Ford Explorer.

5 (60%)

4 (12%)

3 (9%)

2 (9%)

1 (10%)

4.0

105 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

Great value

Dan, 10/13/2017

2017 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)

Costs thousands less than comparable cars from other companies. Roomy, comfortable, drives nice. Great for hauling kids, pets, and stuff around. Super in the winter snow. The XLT version with a few options get's you 99% of the higher priced versions at far less cost. The standard engine power is excellent - no reason to "upgrade". My only minor concerns are the drivers left foot room is …

Slick, quick, and legit

mminitti, 01/10/2017

2017 Ford Explorer Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A)

This SUV has it all. A punchy V6 that acts quickly and behaves as billed. It is fast and responsive! The torque is great. It's MPG is a bit underwhelming, but what it lacks in efficiency, it makes up in performance and agility. I've never been disappointed in the engine's performance when I have needed it. The ride is amazing as well. There is virtually no cabin noise, even at …

Still loving my Explorer after 2yrs

greatwhiteowl, 10/13/2018

2017 Ford Explorer Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A)

It's my cross country car. Fuel economy was not a priority; I get low 20's mpg. I chose the Explorer because I wanted an AWD car with a big windshield high off the ground. Something with enough space to let me stretch out flat if I want to skip the motel that night. Something fun to drive. My other car is a Porsche and while I didn't expect this to be Porsche-like, I didn't want to drive … a boring slug either. The Eco-boost V6 has amazing power with minimal turbo lag and will launch this puppy quite nicely, although if you floor it, you wanna be on top of the torque steer. Steering is unexpectedly quick for a big SUV, and the handling and brakes are surprisingly good. It's very comfortable! Extremely quiet; even the glass has its own sound insulation! It's a nice cockpit with nice materials. I have no issues with the Sync3 head unit, unlike the MyFordTouch offering that people hated in previous models. The sound system is amazing. What I don't like: sometimes Ford thinks it knows what you want better than you do. You can't escape the lights on entry/exit.. guess the designers never went car camping. Sometimes you get a double honk if you did something the sensors didn't expect. Sometimes the sensors do things you don't want, such as opening the rear hatch when you're trying to put on a car cover, or activating the panic button which is way too sensitive. So you're that jerk who is always flashing his lights or honking his horn for no reason. Overall, I love this car and am happy I bought it. UPDATE: Have now owned my Explorer for five years. Still love it. Here are a few criticisms I can offer: 1) The battery was seriously underprovisioned for this car. If you don't drive it all the time, it runs down. If the battery is not fully charged and you use the electronic actuators (move your seats, cycle your moonroof, etc) you may be out of luck when you try to start it again. I now carry a Jump'n'Carry in the car at all times. 2) Ford is a nagging nanny. Listen to the radio for more than 10 minutes with the power off, and the radio shuts off. This is infuriating. They have the battery % charge information; they could use this to leave the radio on longer if there's plenty of charge left, but they don't. If you are sitting in your car watching the sunset, you have to repeatedly turn the radio back on. Also, Ford turns on the cabin light whenever you open the door, whether you want it to or not. Usually I don't. At least give me the option. 3) I wish I could disable the double honk. Even after having owned the car for years, I find it still goes off in unexpected circumstances.. sometimes the doors lock themselves and when you try to open a back door, the alarm goes off. Sometimes you have the key in your pocket and unintentionally trigger the panic button. It's kind of a mess. 4) Make sure after you get an oil change that the mechanic has replaced the shield he removed from under the car in order to access the drain plug and filter. It would be fabulous if Ford had designed the car to allow easy owner oil changes, but no such luck. It is easy for the mechanic to forget to reinstall the shield, and it discourages owner oil changes. 5) I've never had to use the spare tire. But looking at the layout and checking out the directions for doing so, I hope I never do. 6) Don't go on a trip with only one key. If you lose it, you're looking at a tow to the nearest Ford dealer to reprogram you a new key. $$$ Keep an extra key in the car, but wrap it in foil so the car doesn't sense it, and hide it well because whoever finds it can take your car. Overall, the electronic interfaces are in their infancy. Clumsy and far from perfect. Ford (and probably every other car mfr) really needs to put a lot of thought and effort into improving these. Other than that, have to say I still really enjoy driving this beast!

Traded my Escalade ESV Premium and MUCH HAPPIER

Jim Keys, 02/06/2017

2017 Ford Explorer Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A)

After frustration in owning 3 successive Escalades that had the ride of a broken tractor and the ergonomics of a cracked brick, I'm much happier with my Explorer Platinum. The ride is a world better, the human factors engineering is far better and the controls fit me naturally. At 6'6" I was concerned about headroom and shoulder room, but the Explorer comes through in spades. The ride is …

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2017 Ford Explorer video

2017 Ford Explorer Expert Rundown

Looking for a great three-row crossover SUV with outstanding quietness and quality cabin trimmings? The 2017 Ford Explorer might be a good fit. Here's a quick rundown of what we like, what we don't and the bottom line from the Edmunds editors.

2017 Explorer Highlights

Trim:

Base

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$31,160
Engine Type	Flex-fuel (ffv)
Combined MPG	20 MPG
Cost to Drive	$182/month
Seating	7 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	21.0 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the Explorer models:

Collision Warning with Brake Support: Alerts the driver to an impending forward collision and pre-charges the brakes to shorten the stopping distance.
Lane Keeping System: Vibrates the steering wheel and reduces steering effort if the car veers toward the edge of its lane.
Blind-Spot Information System: Senses vehicles in adjacent lanes and illuminates a warning in the side mirrors.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover16.4%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Marginal
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested

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2017 Ford Explorer Review

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Edmunds' Expert Review

Pros

Cons

What’s new

Vehicle overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2017 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $2.93 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds' Expert Rating

Trim tested

Scorecard

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Off-road

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Child safety seat accommodation

Towing

Which Explorer does Edmunds recommend?

2017 Ford Explorer models

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Most helpful consumer reviews

Great value

Slick, quick, and legit

Still loving my Explorer after 2yrs

Traded my Escalade ESV Premium and MUCH HAPPIER

2017 Ford Explorer video

2017 Ford Explorer Expert Rundown

2017 Explorer Highlights

Safety

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Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2017 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $2.93 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.}