Why America’s Love Affair With the Ford Explorer Endures

Aside from computer tech, the auto industry is the sector most punctuated by epic milestones. From the invention of the combustion engine to today’s electrified powertrains, the last century has seen innovations that surpass even the wildest science fiction movies. Without a doubt, the launch of the sport utility vehicle (SUV) belongs on the list of seismic, industry-changing highlights, and every driver of one has a single manufacturer to thank: The Ford Motor Company.

Ford changed the industry forever in 1991 when it launched the Ford Explorer. The rest, as they say, is history. Statista estimates that more than two hundred million SUVs were in operation in 2019. Over its more than three decades in production, the Explorer has remained a best-seller, chosen by families, adventure seekers, and buyers looking for reliability, capability, and comfort—and so, as you would expect, the standard bearer for modern SUVs is the 2024 Ford Explorer.

Currently in its sixth generation, this time-tested full-size SUV has weathered competition from juggernauts like Jeep and Toyota, delivering on its promise of utility and standing by a box-like design that earns it icon status. So, what’s new for the 2024 model year? Well, Ford reliably continues its mission to build a lineup that caters to multiple buyers’ lifestyles, with models that are easy on the budget to models of premium luxury.

Ford does so without losing sight of the Explorer’s most important characteristic: capability. From the carpool line to a remote dirt trail high in the mountains, the 2024 Ford Explorer—just like its predecessors—is more than ready for whatever drivers demand of it.

Capability Both On and Off the Road

A review of the 2024 Explorer’s capability isn’t possible without exploring the rugged Timberline trim. Standard with a trim-exclusive 3.58 TORSEN limited-slip rear axle and a series of steel skid plates, the Explorer Timberline is outfitted for durability and trail-riding prowess. A set of off-road front struts balances the ride while accommodating rough terrain. Standard Intelligent four-wheel drive takes traction to a new level without the need for manual driver intervention. Add to that the Timberline’s 8.66-inch ground clearance, and off-roaders are equipped with everything they need to attack the trail with confidence.

The 2024 Explorer comes with two available powertrains: a four-cylinder, 2.3-liter EcoBoost that makes an impressive 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque—standard on the Timberline—and a V6 that produces a whopping 400 hp and a torque rating of 415 lb-ft. The powerful 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 comes standard on the ST, King Ranch, and Platinum trims. Both engines are mated to a smooth-shifting ten-speed automatic transmission with selectable drive modes in Ford’s Terrain Management System. Shift to Normal for everyday driving, or opt for Trail, Sport, or Eco mode to dial in tailored settings.

For families headed to the lakehouse for a weekend of boating and fishing or those hauling an RV, the Explorer offers an alternative to a pickup truck without losing out on towing might. The 2024 Explorer can pull up to 5,600 lbs capably. A series of towing technologies—such as a trailer sway control system and rear camera angles—simplify the hook-up process and enhance safety while hauling your toys. All the while, your family can relax in a comfortable cabin that seats up to seven passengers with room left over for luggage and gear.

Advanced Infotainment & Connectivity

At the turn of the century, the automotive industry experienced a blending of Silicon Valley tech and automotive innovation. Today’s vehicles run on sophisticated operating systems and software that optimizes ride handling, boosts safety, and adds a level of convenience buyers now rely on. For 2024, the Explorer offers seamless connectivity with smartphones and smart home devices, along with safety features that utilize onboard radar, sensors, and cameras to keep occupants out of harm’s way.

The top-of-the-line Explorer Platinum comes standard with a massive 10.1-inch portrait-mounted infotainment touchscreen that serves as the central control for accessing navigation and smartphone app content. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—along with a wireless device charger and a plethora of charging ports scattered throughout the cabin—ensure drivers and occupants are charged and connected. The Platinum also has a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with a subwoofer that sends sound to every contour of the cabin.

The FordPass Connect turns your smartphone into a remote key. The system can lock/unlock the Explorer’s doors, perform a remote start, and even migrate navigation instructions to the infotainment screen. The screen runs on Ford’s SYNC 3 operating system, which facilitates easy toggling through functions and provides intuitive, customizable displays. Your safety gets a tech boost with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of driver assistance systems that keep an eye on the areas surrounding your vehicle, notifying you of potential hazards and making daily functions (like parallel parking) a little easier.

Luxury-Level Creature Comforts

For those who spend hours commuting or hauling the kids to and from school and their activities, cabin comfort is critically important. Ford’s seven-color ambient lighting feature lets drivers dial in comfortable hues that are scientifically proven to promote relaxation. Who knew that ambient lighting would become a sought-after feature for car buyers? An available twin-panel moonroof fills the cabin with natural light and offers an open-air driving experience on warm, sunny days. Each Explorer trim comes with its own appointments, but trims like the King Ranch take the ambiance a step further with custom Del Rio leather seats styled with perforated inserts in a unique two-tone hue.

Tri-zone automatic climate control is a must for large families, as is the Explorer’s roomy third-row seating, which is available with a power fold feature that enlarges the cargo area. Small touches—like the standard second-row window shades—offer aid to families with little ones, shielding them from the sun and allowing parents to keep their eyes on the road. Features like a push-button start, a roomy center console, and heated and ventilated seats add to the Explorer’s reputation for comfort and convenience.

Even the affordable base 2024 Explorer offers a long list of driver-centric features, including a standard power liftgate and a power driver’s seat. At under $40k, the entry-level Explorer gives budget-focused buyers a three-row option without breaking the bank. Throughout its trim lineup, the Explorer offers opportunities for customization, with equipment packages that outfit your rig with everything you want and nothing you don’t.

The Future of the SUV

As the old saying goes, only death and taxes are certain in this world, but it’s a pretty safe bet that manufacturers will keep churning out SUVs. Demand shows no signs of stopping, as evidenced by the slew of electrified SUVs that have recently hit showroom floors. Buyers crave all the space and utility of an SUV without the bulky, rough ride, which is exactly what the Explorer offers. Though smaller than its much bigger sibling, the Expedition, it still comfortably seats seven while maintaining a car-like agility.

As manufacturers like Ford continue their trend of innovation, the SUV segment will continue to evolve; you can expect more fuel efficiency and greater towing capability, along with enhanced cabin ergonomics that take the strain and fatigue out of daily driving and family road trips. As always, the Explorer will be at the forefront, delivering big on comfort and convenience as it has for decades. It’s not easy to be a pioneer, but the Explorer—the one that started the SUV revolution—remains the one to watch.