2017 Ford Explorer SUV
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
- Legroom in the second and third rows is subpar
- Depending on trim level, feels big and ponderous from behind the wheel
Read full review
Features & Specs
| XLT 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) | XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) | Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) | Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) | Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) | Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) | 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) | 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $33,775 | $35,925 | $45,355 | $53,235 | $41,675 | $43,825 | $31,160 | $33,810 |
| MPG | 20 | 19 | 18 | 18 | 22 | 21 | 20 | 19 |
| Seating | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Fuel | flex-fuel (FFV) | flex-fuel (FFV) | gas | gas | gas | gas | flex-fuel (FFV) | flex-fuel (FFV) |
| Horsepower | 290 hp @ 6500 rpm | 290 hp @ 6500 rpm | 365 hp @ 5500 rpm | 365 hp @ 5500 rpm | 280 hp @ 5600 rpm | 280 hp @ 5600 rpm | 290 hp @ 6500 rpm | 290 hp @ 6500 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Explorer safety features:
- 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.
Top Consumer Reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2017 Ford Explorer
People who viewed this also viewed
2017 Ford Explorer video
MARK TAKAHASHI: I'm Edmunds editor Mark Takahashi. And here's your Expert Rundown of the 2017 Ford Explorer. The Ford Explorer has a ton of trim levels from basic to luxurious. We like the Sport model, in particular, because it's a little easier to drive, while other models feel a bit heavy and overly soft. You get three different engine choices, our favorite being the caboose V6, though fuel economy could be better. Unlike most SUVs in this class, you can have all three rows filled with passengers and still have plenty of room for cargo. Second row, you can get either a bench or captain's chairs. And to add a little convenience, they can be optioned with power folding, so that you don't really have to keep crawling back and forth to get stuff in. Here's the bottom line on the Ford Explorer. We like its space. We like the Sport trim and the V6. It competes well against the Dodge Durango, GMC Acadia, and Honda Pilot.
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 Ford Explorer SUV for Sale
2017 Ford Explorer Limited Magnetic FWD 6-Speed Automatic 2.3L I4 20' Polished Aluminum Wheels, Twin Panel Moonroof. Auto High Beam Headlights, Auto-Dimming Driver's Sideview Mirror, BLIS Blind Spot Information System, BLIS Plus Inflatable Rear Safety Belts Package, Enhanced Active Park Assist System, Equipment Group 301A, Inflatable Rear Seatbelts, Lane-Keeping System, Multi-Contour Front Seats w/Active Motion, Rain-Sensing Wipers (Front Only), Twin Panel Moonroof. 27/19 Highway/City MPG Reviews: * Plenty of high-tech features that are easy to use cargo space is generous behind the third row turbocharged V6 engine delivers plentiful power cabin is quiet and comfortable on the highway. Source: Edmunds
2017 Ford Explorer Sport AWD. Hood replaced lot damage!
We thank you for considering your next vehicle from Hagerstown Ford. We take pride in making all our vehicles the best they can be. We are the leader in the 4 states area for Ford vehicles. At Hagerstown Ford NO Gimmicks, NO Give Aways, Just Great Deals! Why buy anywhere else? Choose Hagerstown Ford, you ll be glad you did!
HOLD ON TIGHT... EXPLORER SPORT WITH ECOBOOST PERFORMANCE FOR LESS...365 HORSEPOWER... GO FAST WITH ROOM FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
2017 Ford Explorer Limited with 4WD, 3.5L V6 Engine, 6-Speed Automatic Transmission, Navigation, Bluetooth Phone Connectivity, Heated and Cooled Front Seats, and a Moonroof. Package 301A.
Vehicle Overview
When it comes to hauling a larger family around, shoppers who don't want to go the minivan route often turn to midsize SUVs. And in the world of three-row SUVs, the 2017 Ford Explorer is one of the most well-rounded.
The new model year sees the introduction of a package available on XLT model Explorers called the Sport Appearance package. Added features include dark gray accents on the 20-inch wheels, grille, mirror caps and rear bumper appliqué along with black side moldings, roof rails and an Explorer hood badge. The package gives buyers the look of a Sport model without having to make the jump to the large turbocharged engine and Sport-level hardware. Inside, the package adds two-tone seats and door trim done up in dark gray leather and suede, as well as logo floor mats.
Additionally, XLT and higher grade models have the option to upgrade to Ford’s new Sync 3 infotainment system, which is more intuitive and quicker responding than the previous MyFord Touch system. The touchscreen uses swipe and pinch gestures and enhanced voice recognition with Siri integration. And when updates are available, the system will automatically update over Wi-Fi.
The Explorer spans a wide price range, from the low $30Ks for a base model to nearly $60K for the fully loaded Platinum trim, and its road mannerisms vary about as much as well. Where the base model makes do with less power and drives bigger than it looks, the Sport trim’s sharper handling and punchy turbo V6 engine shrink the Explorer from behind the wheel. There’s seating for up to seven passengers, which falls behind others in the segment that will carry eight, but it offers an above-average towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
Naturally, there are other good options for three-row SUVs to consider. If you’re looking to maximize your cargo space and towing capability, the 2017 Chevrolet Traverse is worth checking out. There’s also the all-new 2017 GMC Acadia, which is slightly smaller than the previous model but more efficient. Both the Honda Pilot and the Toyota Highlander are excellent options thanks to their big cabins and comfortable rides.
Performance and MPG
Standard on the base and XLT trim levels is a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. With this engine, you have your choice of standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The latter gets hill descent control, hill start assist and Ford's Terrain Management System, which is a driver-selectable system that optimizes traction for a variety of driving situations.
According to the EPA, a front-wheel-drive 2017 Explorer with the V6 will deliver 20 mpg combined (17 city/24 highway). With all-wheel drive, the V6 drops slightly to 19 mpg combined (16 city/23 highway). In Edmunds testing, an AWD Explorer Limited with the base V6 went from zero to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds, which is about average for this size of vehicle.
Optional on base, XLT and now standard on Limited Explorers is the fuel sipper of the group, a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 280 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive are standard; all-wheel drive is optional. Fuel economy rises to 22 mpg combined (19 city/27 highway) with front-wheel drive and 21 mpg combined (18 city/25 highway) with AWD. Properly equipped, the four-cylinder Explorer can tow 3,000 pounds.
The Explorer Sport and Platinum trims come with a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine rated at 365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive are standard. The EPA says to expect 18 mpg combined (16 city/22 highway). Properly equipped, an Explorer with either of the V6 engines can tow 5,000 pounds. In Edmunds testing, the Sport and Platinum models delivered a zero to 60 mph time of 6.3 seconds, which is very quick for this segment.
Safety
Standard safety equipment for the 2017 Ford Explorer includes stability and traction control, trailer sway control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, a front-passenger knee airbag and MyKey, which allows parents to specify limits for vehicle speed and stereo volume. The Explorer's stability control system also includes Ford's Curve Control, which can monitor speed carried into a corner and decelerate if necessary.
A rearview camera is standard on the Explorer, while a 180-degree front camera is optional. Rear parking sensors are also standard on all but the base Explorer. Optional on the Limited and Sport but standard on the Platinum is a forward collision warning system with brake priming (bundled with the adaptive cruise control), lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist (Limited only), a blind-spot monitoring system (with rear-cross traffic alert) and inflatable seat belts for second-row outboard passengers. You can now get blind-spot monitoring with rear-cross traffic in the XLT this year as well.
In Edmunds testing, an AWD Explorer Limited with all-season tires came to a stop from 60 mph in 118 feet, a few feet shorter than average. An Explorer Sport with summer performance tires stopped in just 108 feet, a remarkable stopping distance for a vehicle of this size and weight.
In government crash tests, last year's Explorer earned a five-star rating (out of a possible five) for overall crash protection, with five stars for total front-impact protection and five stars for total side-impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave its top score of Good for the Explorer's performance in moderate-overlap front-impact, side-impact and roof strength tests. It received the second-lowest rating of Marginal in the small-overlap front-impact test. Its seat belts and head restraints earned a Good rating for whiplash protection in rear impacts.
Additional Information
Despite its practicality, a minivan is not every large-ish family's cup of vehicular tea. Some folks prefer a midsize three-row SUV to tote the kids and carry the cargo. Within that genre, the 2017 Ford Explorer stands as a well-rounded choice. Able to seat up to seven, the Explorer comes in a wide range of trim levels and offers a number of powertrains and family-friendly features.
New for this year, Ford's available Sync 3 infotainment system proves more intuitive and responsive than the previous MyFord Touch system. Just like a smartphone or tablet, the Sync 3 touchscreen uses swipe and pinch gestures. It also has enhanced voice recognition with Siri integration. One needn't worry about updating the system, as updates are done automatically via Wi-Fi.
The 2017 Ford Explorer family comprises five trim levels, ranging from the well-equipped base model on up to the plush Platinum. Under the hood, engine choices include a turbocharged four-cylinder and a pair of V6s, with one being turbocharged. Output runs from a respectable 280 horsepower to a muscular 365 horses. Lower trims offer a choice between front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), while upper trims are AWD-only. EPA fuel mileage estimates range from 18 mpg combined (16 city/22 highway) for the turbo V6 with AWD to 22 mpg combined (19 city/27 highway) for the turbo-four with FWD.
Even the base 2017 Ford Explorer comes with niceties such as LED headlights and alloy wheels. Highlights of the Sport trim include the turbocharged V6 and a sport-tuned suspension, while the Platinum pampers with a large dual-panel sunroof and a power-adjustable, heated steering wheel. Newly optional for the XLT trim is the Sport Appearance package, which provides much of the Sport trim level's styling pizzazz but at a lower price point because it does without the Sport's high-performance hardware.
A wealth of standard and optional safety features bolsters the 2017 Ford Explorer's résumé. Depending on trim level and specification, technologies such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control with forward collision warning can help prevent or mitigate accidents.
Although the 2017 Ford Explorer is generally a smooth, quiet and pleasant-to-drive SUV, most versions tend to feel quite large from the driver seat. The Explorer Sport changes that to some extent — its sharper handling, quicker steering and more spirited performance give it a nimbler and more manageable feel on winding roads. On the towing front, the Explorer can handle up to 5,000 pounds, translating to above-average capacity in this regard.
Within the wide-ranging Explorer lineup you're bound to find something suitable. But no matter what your preferences are, Edmunds is ready to help you find the 2017 Ford Explorer that's just right for your needs.
2017 Ford Explorer SUV Overview
The 2017 Ford Explorer SUV is offered in the following styles: XLT 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A), XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A), Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A), Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A), Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A), Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A), 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A), and 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A).
What do people think of the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 Explorer SUV 4 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 Explorer SUV.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2017 Explorer SUV featuring deep dives into trim levels including XLT, Sport, Platinum, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV here.Edmunds Scorecard
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2017 Ford Explorer SUV?
2017 Ford Explorer SUV Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $54,775. The average price paid for a new 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $4,906 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $4,906 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $49,869.
The average savings for the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) is 9% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburn area.
2017 Ford Explorer SUV Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $49,490. The average price paid for a new 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $6,598 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,598 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $42,892.
The average savings for the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) is 13.3% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburn area.
2017 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $49,860. The average price paid for a new 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $8,791 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $8,791 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $41,069.
The average savings for the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 17.6% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 2 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburn area.
2017 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
The 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $48,010. The average price paid for a new 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $9,669 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $9,669 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $38,341.
The average savings for the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is 20.1% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2017 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburn area.
2017 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2017 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburn area.
2017 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
The 2017 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $35,645. The average price paid for a new 2017 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is trending $1 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $35,644.
The average savings for the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is 0% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2017 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburn area.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2017 Ford Explorer SUVS are available in my area?
2017 Ford Explorer SUV Listings and Inventory
There are currently 24 new 2017 Ford Explorer SUVS listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $35,115 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the Carfax and Autocheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $9,669 on a new, used or CPO 2017 Ford Explorer SUV available from a dealership near you.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2017 Ford Explorer SUV for sale near you.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV and all available trim types: Limited, XLT, Platinum, etc. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2017 Ford Explorer SUV include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
related vehicle information
2017 Ford Explorer Information
- 2017 Ford Explorer Build and Price TMV®
- 2017 Ford Explorer Incentives & Rebates
- 2017 Ford Explorer Consumer Discussions
- 2017 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews
- 2017 Ford Explorer Features & Specs
- 2017 Ford Explorer Pictures
- 2017 Ford Explorer Review
- 2017 Ford Explorer Dealer Price Quotes
- Used 2017 Ford Explorer For Sale Near Me
- 2017 Ford Explorer Ownership Costs
Ford Explorer by City
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Virginia Beach, VA
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Sacramento, CA
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Tulsa, OK
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Atlanta, GA
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Omaha, NE
- Ford Explorers for Sale in San Francisco, CA
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Fresno, CA
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Denver, CO
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Phoenix, AZ
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Washington, DC
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Boston, MA
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Jacksonville, FL
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Dallas, TX
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Cleveland, OH
- Ford Explorers for Sale in San Diego, CA
- Ford Explorers for Sale in Albuquerque, NM