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2018 Ford Explorer SUV

2018 Ford Explorer
Save up to $10,874
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MSRP range
$32,140 - $53,940
Edmunds Rating
4.5 out of 5.0
Consumer Rating
(19)
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2018 Ford Explorer
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What’s new

  • Subtle styling tweaks front and rear
  • Integrated 4G LTE hotspot
  • Part of the fifth Explorer generation introduced for 2011

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 third row is subpar
  • Depending on trim level, feels big and ponderous from behind the wheel
Ford Explorer years
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Save as much as $10,874

2018 Ford Explorer SUV pricing

in Ashburn, VA

Which Explorer does Edmunds recommend?

Our favorite version of the 2018 Ford Explorer is easily the Sport. It eradicates the ponderousness of non-Sport versions while maintaining excellent ride composure. The Sport doesn't compromise the Explorer's quiet demeanor either, despite its relatively low-profile 20-inch wheels. On top of that, its turbocharged V6 is plenty powerful, and you'll find it to be the engine of choice if you plan to do a lot of towing or hauling.

Edmunds' Expert Review

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

When Ford introduced the current generation of the Explorer back in 2011, it switched from the Explorer's traditional body-on-frame construction to a more carlike unibody. In so doing, the Explorer more fully (and smartly) embraced its role as daily family transport, delivering better road manners and much more refinement.

The Explorer is now entering the eighth model year of its current generation, yet it is still competitive. In the meantime, deciding on a three-row crossover SUV has gotten even harder. Today, the Explorer doesn't have the biggest cargo capacity in its class, and its third-row seat isn't tremendously spacious.

While we give the Sport trim level a solid thumbs-up, other trim levels aren't quite as impressive to drive, exhibiting more ponderous routine handling that makes the Explorer feel bigger than it is. Under the hood is your choice of one of three engines: a V6, a turbocharged four-cylinder or a turbocharged V6. Of the three, we like the turbocharged V6 the most. It delivers terrific thrust, which you'll like for highway passing and towing, but unfortunately it's only available with the more expensive trim levels.

Overall, though, the 2018 Ford Explorer gets most things right, and we see it as a respectable choice for a three-row midsize SUV.

Trim levels & features

There are five different ways to configure your 2018 Ford Explorer: the base, XLT, Limited, Sport and Platinum trim levels, which cover a broad swath of features. The base, XLT and Limited models are available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive, while the Sport and Platinum are offered solely with all-wheel drive. Regardless of trim level, every Explorer is equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. For 2018, many driver assistance features (adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning and intervention, automatic wipers and automatic high beams) have been grouped together into a single options package.

Base models, predictably, sit at the very bottom of the Explorer range. These models have 18-inch wheels, cloth upholstery and manually adjustable front seats, though a rearview camera and Sync voice commands spruce up things a bit.

The XLT trim level is one rung up the ladder, adding a few standard features over the base trim level and desirable options that aren't available on base variants at all. With its balance between features and value, a well-equipped XLT will be a popular version of the Explorer. A non-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 (290 horsepower, 255 pound-feet of torque) is standard on the base and XLT variants, while a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (280 hp, 310 lb-ft of torque) is available as an option.
 
Buyers who want to amp things up will be attracted to the Limited model, which adds leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, premium audio and power-folding third-row seats. Note that the Limited comes standard with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but you can still get the regular V6 if you want.

While those additional comfort items are desirable, we're partial to the Sport variant's more fundamental changes. These models come with a powerful turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 (365 hp, 350 lb-ft of torque), firmer suspension tuning and a towing package.

It's possible to get the turbocharged V6 paired to the softer suspension of non-Sport models by going for the top-of-the-line Platinum trim level. It comes with a panoramic sunroof, an automated parking system, premium leather upholstery, a premium audio system and more.

Trim tested

There are typically multiple versions of each vehicle, although many aspects are shared. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2016 Ford Explorer Sport (turbo 3.5L V6 | 6-speed automatic | AWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current Explorer has received a new infotainment system and minor revisions to feature availability. Our findings remain applicable to this year's Explorer.

Driving

5
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
There's lots of "boost," not much "eco," with the EcoBoost V6. It 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; zero to 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
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
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
The gas pedal can be a bit abrupt on initial tip-in. The optional adaptive cruise control is ultraconsistent 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 modes. Still, this is all for enhancing on-pavement traction, not conquering trails.

Comfort

4.5
Given the 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
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
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

5
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

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
The 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
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 legs 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. The 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
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
The deep well behind the third row provides a superior amount of space. 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
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.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 2018 Ford Explorer.

Overall Consumer Rating
4.119 reviews
Write a reviewSee all 19 reviews
5(58%)
4(11%)
3(21%)
2(5%)
1(5%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

After 11 Beemers, a Ford
Billy Scholtz,04/24/2018
After 11 BMW's and 2 3 stars, I thought to give an American car a try. My friends recommended the explorer. What a total surprise. I simply love it. Wish I had bought one years ago... Mine is 2018 XLT.
Fantastic American SUV
Colin Blackaby,07/16/2018
Quality = After working for a supplier to all the auto industry I know Ford expect very high quality equal to if not better than all the auto manufactures. The Design of the Explorer is one the best on the market both inside and out. Reliability of all Ford cars I have owned has been excellent. This is my 3rd Explorer and it drives perfectly and feels very stable on the road. It is a comfortable SUV to drive and for the money it hard to beat. I have driven many of the cars in both Europe and the States on business trips and found the top 3 to be Ford, Cadillac and Toyota. BMW, Volvo etc. did nothing for me.
Exhaust/CO2 leaks still not fixed!
TE,08/19/2018
Leased my 2018 Explorer Sport with Ecoboost June 2018. Several weeks later I began having headaches, dizziness and tiredness. After a long trip I had to pull over several times due to nausea and feeling like I had to vomit. After missing 3 days of work and taking several pregnancy tests (all negative), I thought I had the flu. I then began smelling a “rotten egg smell” during and after hard acceleration. All this only 3 months of driving the vehicle. I looked up “rotten egg smell on acceleration Ford Explorer” to diagnose what I could be smelling to see if it was an issue that I should bring to Fords attention, and I was appalled of the articles that popped up. The smell I was smelling was exhaust leaking into the cabin and was the reason I had been feeling sick. Ford had been receiving complaints about this since 2011 models and was refusing to recall these vehicles and continued to produce and sell them. Ford is refusing to admit there is a problem. The deny all claims and told me that because my vehicle was a 2018 it wasn’t affected by this, although they allowed it to go on from 2011-2017, and admitted to smelling the “rotten egg smell” however claimed my vehicle was safe and the smell was “normal”. They refuse to perform the inspection on my vehicle which would determine if CO2 and other hatful exhaust fumes are leaking into the cabin and I am terrified to drive the car and refuse to allow my family to do so. Ford should be ashamed and I am furious I didn’t do better research before purchasing from Ford, because thousands of complaints over the last 8 years prove their neglect.
Ford Girl Loves her Explorer!
Miriam,07/14/2018
This is a comfortable, roomy, smooth driving big vehicle. I had an Explorer years ago, then a Taurus sedan, then tried a Subaru and hastily fled back to Ford. I have only leased it for a short time so no experience with reliability or bad weather (yet) but it is supremely comfortable both seats and ride wise, and for a big beast it has good visibility especially forwards. I have the front camera and park assists which are very helpful. Front camera great for small spaces and seeing the driveway over the big hood. Love it. Drawbacks: slurps gas (I knew this going in). Does not have active pedestrian detection/ night vision systems which are available on some other Ford models. I am leasing because I am hoping this will become available in a few years. Ford, you need to put this on all your cars! Audio controls a little fiddly, and headlights could be a little stronger (I live in very dark area where streetlights, where they exist at all, are often non functional.) But I am very happy with it so far despite relatively high price.
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Features & Specs

MSRP
$34,175
MPG
17 city / 24 hwy
Seats 7
6-speed shiftable automatic
Flex-fuel (ffv)
290 hp @ 6500 rpm
MSRP
$36,325
MPG
16 city / 23 hwy
Seats 7
6-speed shiftable automatic
Flex-fuel (ffv)
290 hp @ 6500 rpm
MSRP
$45,950
MPG
16 city / 22 hwy
Seats 7
6-speed shiftable automatic
Gas
365 hp @ 5500 rpm
MSRP
$53,940
MPG
16 city / 22 hwy
Seats 7
6-speed shiftable automatic
Gas
365 hp @ 5500 rpm
See all 2018 Ford Explorer SUV features & specs

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Explorer safety features:

Collision Warning with Brake Support
Alerts the driver to an impending forward collision and precharges brakes to shorten 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.
  • Side Impact Test
    Good
  • Roof Strength Test
    Good
  • Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
    Good
  • IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
    Marginal
  • Moderate Overlap Front Test
    Good

Ford Explorer vs. the competition

2018 Ford Explorer

2018 Ford Explorer

2018 Honda Pilot

2018 Honda Pilot

Ford Explorer vs. Honda Pilot

The Ford Explorer costs a little more than the Honda Pilot, but offers more cargo space behind the third row (although less max cargo capacity than the Pilot), and better ground clearance. That's about where the base Explorer's advantages end, however. The Honda Pilot comes with more standard features and a more fuel-efficient V6 engine, and can seat up to eight passengers. The Pilot earned an Edmunds four-star rating.

Compare Ford Explorer & Honda Pilot features

Ford Explorer vs. Jeep Grand Cherokee

For everyday comfort, the Explorer edges out the smaller Grand Cherokee in quietness, interior space and ride quality. But if you're looking for an SUV that is more off-road capable, you'll likely find a Grand Cherokee more suitable. The Grand Cherokee also travels farther on a tank of fuel, delivers better fuel economy and, thanks to the introduction of the new Trackhawk model, can likely run circles around the already very capable Explorer Sport.

Compare Ford Explorer & Jeep Grand Cherokee features

Ford Explorer vs. Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander costs just less than the Explorer, but comes with an underwhelming four-cylinder engine (185 hp) compared to the Ford's 290-hp base V6 engine. The Highlander can seat eight passengers, but with less passenger space and cargo room (7.2 cubic feet less) behind the third row. The Highlander does come with advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, however, which aren't offered on the base Explorer.

Compare Ford Explorer & Toyota Highlander features

2018 Ford Explorer SUV for Sale

Ford Explorer 2018 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
New 2018
Ford Explorer
Base
(4)
Jerry's Ford of Leesburg
5.6 mi away
Edmunds Suggested Price$29,065
Est.Loan: $600/mo
View Details
Dealer Notes
Equipment Group 100A, SYNC Communication & Entertainment System. Ingot Silver 2018 Ford Explorer FWD 6-Speed Automatic 2.3L I4

MSRP: $34,030

Ford Explorer 2018 Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A)
New 2018
Ford Explorer
Platinum
(1)
Koons Sterling Ford
6 mi away
Edmunds Suggested Price$49,890
Est.Loan: $989/mo
Great Deal!Great Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
TOP-OF-THE-LINE.. 2ND ROW BUCKET.. MOONROOF.. 3.5L ECOBOOST.. ADAPTIVE CRUISE.. BLIS.. NAVIGATION.. AMBIENT LIGHTING.. UPGRADED SONY SOUND.. NIRVANA PREMIUM LEATHER MULTI-CONTOURED HEATED/COOLED SEATS.. HEATED SECOND ROW.. FRONT/REAR SENSING.. FRONT/REAR CAMERA.. HEATED STEERING.. SYNC CONNECT.. TOW.. 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum 4WD Top of the Line Ruby Red Metallic w/ Ebony Black Nirvana Leather, 3.5L V6 EcoBoost... This Explorer is Loaded Up with All-Weather Floor Mats, Second Row Bucket Seats, Cargo Mat, Twin Panel Moonroof, Voice-Activated Touchscreen Navigation, Sony 500-Watt, Premium Sound, Enhanced Active Park Assist, Adjustable Pedals with Memory, All-Digital Instrument Cluster, 110V/150W AC Power Outlet, Ambient Lighting, Universal Garage Door Opener, Sport-Tuned Suspension, Quad Tipped Exhaust, Paddle Shifters, Class III Tow Package, Foot-Activated Liftgate, Third Row PowerFold, Perforated Leather Seating, Heated/Cooled Front Seats, Memory Group, Front Rear Sensing System, Front Rearview Camera, Heated Steering Wheel, SYNC Connect, Smart-Charging USB Ports, Remote Start, Dual-zone Climate Control, California Emissions, LED Signature Lighting, SiriusXM Radio, Front Rear Skid Plates, Intelligent Access with Push-Button Start, Keyless-Entry Keypad, Hill Start Assist, AdvanceTrac Stability Traction Control, Roll Stability, Curve Control, Safety Canopy Airbags, Side Impact, Driver Knee Airbag... Call Koons Sterling Ford at 1-800-796-2075... NOT AVAILABLE FOR TRANSFER... Call us about Additional Rebates that may be available to reduce your price even further! Some examples of Additional rebates that you may qualify for include Active Military, Recent College Grad Competitive Lease Conquest Rebates... WOW prices include some available rebates and incentives that may not be compatible with special rate programs and may require Ford Financing on select models! Financing is subject to approved credit. All prices are special internet prices only and do exclude freight, tax, tags, and processing. WOW prices are valid based on manufacturer incentive program time periods and may vary based on zip code. Please let us verify all rebates that you qualify for... We are a full-service Ford Dealership. We have an Excellent Finance Department and secure financing for the majority of our customers. WE WANT YOUR CAR and are offering top dollar on nice trades. Be sure to call for availability. With our Best Deal WOW Price up front on all In Stock vehicles, our vehicles have been selling very quickly. If you are not local, no worries. We have been selling vehicles throughout the U.S. for many years. We will gladly handle everything for you to ensure that this is an exceptional car buying experience. Give us a Call and let us WOW you with our Great Prices, Excellent Service and Top Quality vehicles!

MSRP: $56,840

Ford Explorer 2018 Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A)
13,546 miles
Used 2018
Ford Explorer
Limited
(4)
Ted Britt Ford Lincoln Chantilly
9.1 mi away
List$36,950
Est.Loan: $673/mo
Fair Deal!Fair Deal!
View Details
Dealer Notes
One Owner, Navigation, Leather, AWD, Twin Panel Moonroof, Wheels: 20 Premium Luster Nickel-Painted Aluminum. 2018 Ford Explorer Limited Shadow Black CARFAX! This vehicle is at the Chantilly location. All prices are plus tax, tags and processing.

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FAQs

Is the Ford Explorer a good car?

While we give the Sport trim level a solid thumbs-up, other trim levels aren't quite as impressive to drive, exhibiting more ponderous routine handling that makes the Explorer feel bigger than it is. There are three engines to choose from: a V6, a turbocharged four-cylinder or a turbocharged V6. We like the turbocharged V6 (365 horsepower, 350 pound-feet of torque) best. It delivers terrific thrust, which you'll like for highway passing and towing, but it's only available on more expensive trim levels. Overall, the 2018 Ford Explorer gets most things right, and it's a respectable choice for a three-row midsize SUV.

How can I get a Ford Explorer deal?

Edmunds can help you find a great local price on a Ford Explorer. See 2018 Ford Explorer deals and incentives in your area.

Does the Ford Explorer have good MPG?

The Explorer's fuel economy is at the low end of the segment, even compared to figures from SUVs with similar engines. The base 3.5-liter V6 returns 20 mpg combined (17 city/24 highway), a figure that drops to an even more disappointing 15 mpg combined (13 city/18 highway) with E85 fuel. Moving up to the turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder improves torque output and efficiency, returning 22 mpg combined (19 city/27 highway) — about the same as other V6 engines from the Explorer's competitors. Finally, the top-of-the-line turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 returns the poorest economy — 18 mpg combined (16 city/22 highway) — but also delivers unmatched power for the segment.

Does the Ford Explorer have good resale value?

If you're ready to buy, you're probably wondering about the Ford Explorer's resale value. How much will a 2018 Ford Explorer be worth in two or five years — or whenever you decide to sell? Check out the Edmunds True Cost to Own (TCO) calculator. It includes projected annual depreciation over the first five years of ownership based on Edmunds' robust market transaction data.

True Cost to Own calculator
More about the 2018 Ford Explorer

The 2018 Ford Explorer is a competitive midsize three-row crossover SUV that, while aging, still has a lot to offer. It is available in a variety of trim levels that can be fortified with a range of optional features. It can be configured with your choice of three engines depending on trim level and offers all-wheel drive as an option. Otherwise the Explorer is front-wheel-drive. For 2018, many driver assistance features (adaptive cruise, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping, rain-sensing wipers and automatic high beams) have been grouped together into a single options package.

The 2018 Explorer is offered in base, XLT, Limited, Sport and Platinum trim levels, and they truly run the gamut in terms of features and hardware. Base Explorers come with a 3.5-liter V6 that is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. It's definitely the value-priced version, with cloth upholstery, manual climate control and a single USB port. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine is optional. Otherwise, options on the base version of the Explorer are largely centered around accessories, though there is a choice of two towing packages.

Really, though, it's not a large leap up to the XLT trim level, which adds a few items plus access to a lot more optional features that aren't available on base variants. Two options packages each include a host of interior comfort and convenience items such as Sync 3, remote starting, dual-zone climate control, a hands-free tailgate and a premium audio system. It's likely that the brunt of buyers will skip the base version in favor of an XLT or higher trim level.

The Limited trim level brings more luxury-oriented appointments such as perforated leather seats, a heated steering wheel and a power-folding third-row seat. Sport models, meanwhile, introduce a powerful twin-turbo V6 into the equation, plus a sport-tuned suspension and 20-inch wheels. It's the version we favor most, although it comes at a significantly greater price tag than base versions. All Sport models are equipped with all-wheel drive.

At the top of the Explorer range is the aptly named Platinum trim level, which is loaded with nearly every item that's optional on lesser models, and then some. Platinum models come with premium leather upholstery, a powerful sound system and an enormous panoramic sunroof.

Although the top of the Explorer range can get expensive, the variety of trim levels and configurations available mean there's one that's right for you. As always, Edmunds' outstanding car-shopping tools were designed to make your search process as smooth and informative as it can be.

2018 Ford Explorer SUV Overview

What do people think of the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2018 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 2018 Explorer SUV.

Edmunds Expert Reviews

Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2018 Explorer SUV featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. 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 2018 Ford Explorer SUV here.
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 2018 Ford Explorer SUV?
2018 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

The 2018 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 $45,235. The average price paid for a new 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $10,369 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $10,369 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$34,866.

The average savings for the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is22.9% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 142 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)

The 2018 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $37,320. The average price paid for a new 2018 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is trending $9,973 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $9,973 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$27,348.

The average savings for the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is26.7% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 193 2018 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)

The 2018 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 $35,285. The average price paid for a new 2018 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is trending $8,841 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $8,841 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$26,445.

The average savings for the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is25.1% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 42 2018 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Ford Explorer SUV Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A)

The 2018 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 $54,935. The average price paid for a new 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $10,874 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $10,874 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$44,061.

The average savings for the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) is19.8% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 111 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Ford Explorer SUV Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A)

The 2018 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 $46,945. The average price paid for a new 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $10,130 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $10,130 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$36,816.

The average savings for the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) is21.6% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 111 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Sport 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)

The 2018 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $35,170. The average price paid for a new 2018 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is trending $9,905 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $9,905 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$25,265.

The average savings for the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is28.2% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 30 2018 Ford Explorer SUV XLT 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)

The 2018 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $33,135. The average price paid for a new 2018 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is trending $8,660 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $8,660 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$24,476.

The average savings for the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) is26.1% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 20 2018 Ford Explorer SUV 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

2018 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A)

The 2018 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 $43,085. The average price paid for a new 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is trending $8,875 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.

Edmunds members save an average of $8,875 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is$34,211.

The average savings for the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) is20.6% below the MSRP.

Available Inventory:

We are showing 18 2018 Ford Explorer SUV Limited 4dr SUV (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 6A) vehicle(s) available in the in the Ashburnarea.

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 2018 Ford Explorer SUVS are available in my area?

2018 Ford Explorer SUV Listings and Inventory

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 2018 Ford Explorer SUV.

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2018 Ford Explorer SUV for sale near you.

Can't find a new 2018 Ford Explorer Explorer SUV you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a new Ford Explorer for sale - 3 great deals out of 17 listings starting at $18,447.

Find a new Ford for sale - 5 great deals out of 21 listings starting at $12,385.

Compare prices on the New Ford Explorer for sale in Ashburn, VA to other major cities

  • City
    Great Deals
    Cars for Sale
    Starting Price
  • Houston, TX
    Great Deals40
    Cars for Sale2978
    Starting Price$12,109
  • San Antonio, TX
    Great Deals12
    Cars for Sale737
    Starting Price$16,320
  • San Jose, CA
    Great Deals58
    Cars for Sale2322
    Starting Price$7,618
  • San Francisco, CA
    Great Deals12
    Cars for Sale5507
    Starting Price$18,780
  • Jacksonville, FL
    Great Deals31
    Cars for Sale6034
    Starting Price$7,590
  • Charlotte, NC
    Great Deals44
    Cars for Sale4710
    Starting Price$13,058
  • Memphis, TN
    Great Deals5
    Cars for Sale7188
    Starting Price$18,488
  • Seattle, WA
    Great Deals44
    Cars for Sale1733
    Starting Price$13,212
  • Oklahoma City, OK
    Great Deals55
    Cars for Sale4806
    Starting Price$7,084
  • Atlanta, GA
    Great Deals56
    Cars for Sale3732
    Starting Price$9,603
  • Albuquerque, NM
    Great Deals70
    Cars for Sale560
    Starting Price$10,445
  • Long Beach, CA
    Great Deals80
    Cars for Sale3786
    Starting Price$12,148
  • Miami, FL
    Great Deals64
    Cars for Sale768
    Starting Price$8,953
  • Oakland, CA
    Great Deals47
    Cars for Sale942
    Starting Price$18,879
  • Raleigh, NC
    Great Deals73
    Cars for Sale2465
    Starting Price$7,293
  • Arlington, TX
    Great Deals49
    Cars for Sale7125
    Starting Price$9,924
Why trust Edmunds?

Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV and all available trim types. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2018 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.

Should I lease or buy a 2018 Ford Explorer?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Check out Ford lease specials
Check out Ford Explorer lease specials

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