2017 Ford Explorer XLT

The 2017 Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV that offers a combination of versatility, comfort, and performance, making it a popular choice for families and adventurers alike. Known for its spacious interior, robust towing capabilities, and modern technology features, the 2017 Explorer is designed to handle both daily commutes and long road trips with ease. Here's a detailed description of the 2017 Ford Explorer:
Exterior:
- Design: The 2017 Ford Explorer features a bold and muscular design with clean lines, a wide stance, and an aggressive front grille. The SUV’s modern styling includes a sculpted hood, refined body panels, and distinctive rear styling that makes it stand out on the road.
- Dimensions: The Explorer is a midsize SUV with a length of 198.3 inches, width of 78.9 inches, and height of 70 inches. It has a wheelbase of 112.8 inches, which contributes to its spacious cabin and smooth ride.
- Lighting: The 2017 Explorer comes equipped with projector-beam headlights and LED daytime running lights, giving it a contemporary look. Higher trims offer available LED fog lights for better visibility in inclement weather.
- Wheels: Standard on the base trim are 18-inch wheels, while higher trims like the Sport and Platinum come with 20-inch wheels for a more premium appearance.
Interior:
- Seating Capacity: The 2017 Explorer can seat up to seven passengers with its three-row seating arrangement (available in 6-passenger configuration with captain’s chairs in the second row). The Explorer offers plenty of space, especially in the first two rows, with sufficient legroom for adults.
- Materials: The interior of the Explorer features high-quality materials, with higher trims offering leather upholstery, premium stitching, and soft-touch materials. The Platinum trim takes luxury up a notch with high-grade leather and wood trim.
- Infotainment System: The 2017 Explorer comes with Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen (standard on most trims), Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and available navigation. The system is known for its intuitive interface and responsiveness. An upgraded Sony audio system is available on higher trims for a premium listening experience.
- Cargo Space: The Explorer offers 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to 43.9 cubic feet when the third row is folded down, and up to 81.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat. This allows for plenty of storage space for luggage, gear, or groceries.
Performance:
- Engine Options:
- 3.5-liter V6 Engine: The base engine produces 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque, offering a solid balance of performance and fuel efficiency. This engine comes standard on most trims, including the base model.
- 2.3-liter Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine: Available on the Explorer XLT and Limited trims, this engine generates 280 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, offering a good mix of power and fuel efficiency, with slightly better fuel economy than the V6.
- 3.5-liter Twin-Turbo V6 Engine: The Sport and Platinum trims come with this engine, producing 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque for superior performance and towing capability.
- Transmission: All engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth shifts and responsive power delivery.
- Drivetrain Options: The Explorer comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) as standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available for improved traction and handling in various weather conditions.
- Towing Capacity: The Explorer’s towing capacity varies depending on the engine and drivetrain. The standard V6 engine can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and twin-turbo V6 engine increase that capacity to 5,000 pounds and 5,300 pounds, respectively, when properly equipped.
Safety Features:
- The 2017 Explorer is equipped with a suite of standard safety features, including:
- Front, side, and curtain airbags
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Stability and traction control
- Rearview camera (standard on most trims)
- Rear parking sensors (available on some trims)
- Available Advanced Safety Features: The 2017 Explorer offers optional advanced safety technology, including:
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
- Lane-keeping assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- Parallel and perpendicular parking assist
Trim Levels:
The 2017 Ford Explorer is available in several trim levels, each offering different features and levels of luxury:
1. Explorer (Base) – The base model comes with standard features like the 3.5L V6 engine, 18-inch wheels, cloth seating, and Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system.
2. XLT – Adds features like upgraded upholstery, keyless entry, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and the option for the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
3. Limited – A more premium trim with leather seating, a power-adjustable passenger seat, and the option for a twin-turbo V6 engine.
4. Sport – Focused on performance, the Sport trim comes standard with the 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and unique exterior styling.
5. Platinum – The highest trim, offering luxury features such as premium leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a Sony audio system, and additional advanced safety features.
Driving Experience:
- The 2017 Explorer provides a comfortable and composed ride on both highways and city streets. It handles well for a vehicle of its size and offers smooth steering and responsive handling. The ride is firm but not overly harsh, with an emphasis on comfort for passengers.
- The twin-turbo V6 engine in the Sport and Platinum trims provides ample power and a more engaging driving experience, with strong acceleration and passing power.
- The all-wheel-drive (AWD) option provides better traction in challenging weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or mud.
Pricing:
The 2017 Ford Explorer has a starting price of around $31,000 for the base model. Higher trims, like the Sport and Platinum, can cost upwards of $45,000 or more depending on additional features and options.
Conclusion:
The 2017 Ford Explorer is an excellent choice for families who want a midsize SUV that offers a balance of performance, comfort, and practicality. With a range of engine options, spacious interior, and advanced technology features, the Explorer can accommodate a variety of driving needs, from daily commutes to weekend road trips. Its strong towing capabilities, smooth ride, and available luxury features in the higher trims make it a competitive option in the midsize SUV segment. Whether you prioritize performance, tech, or family-friendly features, the 2017 Explorer is well-rounded enough to meet most needs.

Visit All Cylinders Auto online at allcylinderautollc.com to see more pictures of this vehicle or call us at 520-372-8425 today to schedule your test drive.