Used 2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch for sale 

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Excellent Deal
2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch
1/40
Price Drop, $2,829 (27 Nov 2024)

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 30,105 mi.

$40,679

$36,499

Est. $495/mo

3.0L V6 RWD A
1 month in market
Leather Seats
701A Luxury Equipment Group
Navigation System...
(866) 591-3943
Check Availability
Knoxville, TN
Excellent Deal
2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch
1/6
Price Drop, $1,589 (29 Nov 2024)

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 24,497 mi.

$40,778

$37,899

Est. $514/mo

3.0L V6 RWD A
1 month in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(561) 433-1511
Check Availability
West Palm Beach, FL
Excellent Deal
2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch
1/20
Price Drop, $574 (30 Nov 2024)

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 41,617 mi.

$39,066

$36,410

Est. $494/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
3 months in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(314) 798-6934
Check Availability
Saint Louis, MO
Excellent Deal
1/37
Price Drop, $107 (30 Nov 2024)

Certified 2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 26,086 mi.

$40,554

$38,888

Est. $527/mo

3.0L V6 RWD A
30 days in market
Leather Seats
Navigation System
Adaptive Cruise Control...
(626) 359-9689
Check Availability
Duarte, CA
Excellent Deal
1/51
Price Drop, $1,000 (29 Nov 2024)

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 22,151 mi.

$42,237

$38,994

Est. $529/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
2 months in market
Leather Seats
Navigation System
Adaptive Cruise Control...
(405) 321-4488
Check Availability
Norman, OK
Excellent Deal
1/25
Price Drop, $81 (30 Nov 2024)

Certified 2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 34,149 mi.

$39,706

$37,100

Est. $503/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
16 days in market
Leather Seats
Navigation System
Adaptive Cruise Control...
(304) 722-4900
Check Availability
Saint Albans, WV
Excellent Deal
1/26
Price Drop, $4,300 (14 Nov 2024)

Certified 2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 26,946 mi.

$43,491

$39,588

Est. $537/mo

3.0L V6 RWD A
3 months in market
Leather Seats
Navigation System
Adaptive Cruise Control...
(662) 349-4300
Check Availability
Southaven, MS
Excellent Deal
1/6
Price Drop, $497 (29 Nov 2024)

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 46,196 mi.

$38,010

$35,403

Est. $480/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
27 days in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(313) 274-8800
Check Availability
Dearborn, MI
Excellent Deal
1/30
Price Drop, $958 (26 Nov 2024)

2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 74,364 mi.

$34,504

$31,852

Est. $432/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
2 months in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
Navigation System...
(502) 499-6161
Check Availability
Louisville, KY
Excellent Deal
1/28
Price Drop, $100 (27 Nov 2024)

Certified 2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 35,808 mi.

$39,320

$37,393

Est. $507/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
19 days in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(573) 634-4444
Check Availability
Jefferson City, MO
Excellent Deal
1/43
Price Drop, $585 (26 Nov 2024)

2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 39,471 mi.

$39,796

$36,899

Est. $500/mo

3.0L V6 RWD A
1 month in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(850) 754-7421
Check Availability
Fort Walton Beach, FL
Excellent Deal
1/60
Price Drop, $500 (30 Nov 2024)

2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 31,199 mi.

$41,484

$38,422

Est. $521/mo

3.0L V6 RWD A
1 month in market
Leather Seats
701A Luxury Equipment Group
Navigation System...
(334) 491-7444
Check Availability
Prattville, AL
Excellent Deal
1/30
Price Drop, $2,500 (28 Nov 2024)

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 54,274 mi.

$38,504

$36,000

Est. $488/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
5 days in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(402) 858-9689
Check Availability
Elkhorn, NE
Excellent Deal
1/25

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 50,278 mi.

$37,573

$35,000

Est. $475/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
25 days in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(410) 498-8858
Check Availability
Windsor Mill, MD

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Excellent Deal
1/34
Price Drop, $2,000 (01 Dec 2024)

Certified 2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 38,590 mi.

$38,641

$37,000

Est. $502/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
30 days in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(904) 824-1641
Check Availability
Saint Augustine, FL
Excellent Deal
1/36
Price Drop, $50 (22 Nov 2024)

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 33,921 mi.

$40,372

$38,450

Est. $522/mo

3.0L V6 RWD A
3 months in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(318) 734-8952
Check Availability
Shreveport, LA
Excellent Deal
1/34

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 24,616 mi.

$42,107

$40,185

Est. $545/mo

3.0L V6 RWD A
25 days in market
Leather Seats
701A Luxury Equipment Group
Navigation System...
Check Availability
Fort Walton Beach, FL
Excellent Deal
1/6
Price Drop, $216 (19 Nov 2024)

2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 47,919 mi.

$35,727

$33,919

Est. $460/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
1 month in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(561) 725-3500
Check Availability
West Palm Beach, FL
Good Deal
1/27
Price Drop, $242 (12 Nov 2024)

Certified 2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 61,400 mi.

$34,606

$32,960

Est. $447/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
2 months in market
701A Luxury Equipment Group
Navigation System
Alloy Wheels...
Check Availability
Ocala, FL
Good Deal
1/34
Price Drop, $1,000 (29 Nov 2024)

2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 24,829 mi.

$42,307

$39,998

Est. $543/mo

3.0L V6 RWD A
1 month in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
Navigation System...
(208) 322-3535
Check Availability
Meridian, ID
Good Deal
1/32
Price Drop, $785 (26 Nov 2024)

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 15,183 mi.

$41,809

$39,884

Est. $541/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
1 month in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(631) 894-4636
Check Availability
Bay Shore, NY
Good Deal
1/32
Price Drop, $681 (25 Nov 2024)

2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 55,278 mi.

$37,451

$36,000

Est. $488/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
1 month in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
Navigation System...
(575) 489-2300
Check Availability
Albuquerque, NM
Good Deal
1/39
Price Drop, $1,000 (27 Nov 2024)

2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 53,464 mi.

$36,645

$34,999

Est. $475/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
26 days in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
Check Availability
Minneapolis, MN
Good Deal
1/48
Price Drop, $534 (29 Nov 2024)

Certified 2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 42,799 mi.

$38,440

$36,777

Est. $499/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
1 month in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
Navigation System...
(330) 666-0711
Check Availability
Akron, OH

About 2021 Ford Explorer


3.8

Overall Rating

With a starting price of $32,225, the 2021 Ford Explorer is available for sale in the form of five trims- Base, XLT, Limited, ST, and top-end Platinum. Compared to the outgoing model, prices have been cut down for each trim. The 2021 Explorer is powered by a 2.3L turbo inline-4 engine that churns out 300 hp and 310 lb-ft. of torque. The ST and Platinum trims get a 365-hp 3.0L turbo V6 engine that accelerates from 0-60 MPH in 5.6 seconds.

With a starting price of $32,225, the 2021 Ford Explorer is now on sale in the US with a total of five trims- Base, XLT, Limited, ST, King Ranch, and top-end Platinum, on offer. Compared to the outgoing model, prices have been cut down for each trim. The 2021 Explorer is powered by a 2.3L turbo inline-4 engine that churns out 300 hp and 310 lb-ft. of torque. The ST and Platinum trims get a 365-hp 3.0L turbo V6 engine that accelerates from 0-60 MPH in 5.6 seconds.

Besides the performance part, the interior finishes have been enhanced for the Limited, ST, and Platinum trims. An 8-inch touchscreen display is standard on all trims that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Maximum cargo space of 87.8 cubic feet is available in the 2021 Explorer. The Ford Explorer has tough competition from the likes of Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander.

We recommend you buying the Limited trim from the Ford Explorer lineup. This trim adds some interior features such as heated second-row seats and steering wheel, power-folding third-row seats, wireless charging, a 12-speaker  Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, a hands-free power liftgate, and a household-style power outlet. 

Good Deal
1/56
Price Drop, $500 (23 Nov 2024)

2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 39,985 mi.

$37,833

$35,990

Est. $488/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
1 month in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
Navigation System...
(440) 248-1550
Check Availability
Aurora, OH
Good Deal
1/4
Price Drop, $1,734 (28 Nov 2024)

2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 45,462 mi.

$38,214

$36,991

Est. $502/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
9 days in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(218) 825-3536
Check Availability
Baxter, MN
Good Deal
1/37
Price Drop, $1,000 (24 Nov 2024)

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 15,764 mi.

$41,007

$39,990

Est. $542/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
1 month in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
Navigation System...
(786) 232-0364
Check Availability
Miami, FL
Good Deal
1/39
Price Drop, $600 (30 Nov 2024)

2021 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 34,599 mi.

$39,229

$37,600

Est. $510/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
2 months in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
(219) 924-3400
Check Availability
Highland, IN
Good Deal
1/46
Price Drop, $259 (27 Nov 2024)

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 37,997 mi.

$39,558

$38,776

Est. $526/mo

3.0L V6 RWD A
11 days in market
Leather Seats
701A Luxury Equipment Group
Navigation System...
(731) 664-0873
Check Availability
Jackson, TN
Good Deal
1/35
Price Drop, $1,987 (26 Nov 2024)

2022 Ford Explorer King Ranch - 18,522 mi.

$42,768

$41,975

Est. $569/mo

3.0L V6 AWD A
9 days in market
Leather Seats
Sunroof/Moonroof
701A Luxury Equipment Group...
Check Availability
San Antonio, TX

2021 Ford Explorer Review


Pros

  • Spacious cabin and cargo
  • All-wheel-drive offers improved handling
  • Refined powertrain choices

Cons

  • Cheap material used in interior
  • Expensive than rivals

With a starting price of $32,225, the 2021 Ford Explorer is available for sale in the form of five trims- Base, XLT, Limited, ST, and top-end Platinum. Compared to the outgoing model, prices have been cut down for each trim. The 2021 Explorer is powered by a 2.3L turbo inline-4 engine that churns out 300 hp and 310 lb-ft. of torque. The ST and Platinum trims get a 365-hp 3.0L turbo V6 engine that accelerates from 0-60 MPH in 5.6 seconds.

Overview


With a starting price of $32,225, the 2021 Ford Explorer is now on sale in the US with a total of five trims- Base, XLT, Limited, ST, King Ranch, and top-end Platinum, on offer. Compared to the outgoing model, prices have been cut down for each trim. The 2021 Explorer is powered by a 2.3L turbo inline-4 engine that churns out 300 hp and 310 lb-ft. of torque. The ST and Platinum trims get a 365-hp 3.0L turbo V6 engine that accelerates from 0-60 MPH in 5.6 seconds.

Besides the performance part, the interior finishes have been enhanced for the Limited, ST, and Platinum trims. An 8-inch touchscreen display is standard on all trims that features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Maximum cargo space of 87.8 cubic feet is available in the 2021 Explorer. The Ford Explorer has tough competition from the likes of Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Highlander.

Pricing and Features
6.0/10


The 2021 Ford Explorer's starting price is slightly higher than several rivals- Cars.USNews

The 2021 Ford Explorer has six trims in the lineup. They include Base, XLT, Limited, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. Prices vary from $32,675 to $52,480, including a destination charge of $1,245. Except for the ST and Platinum trims, the rest of the trims come standard with RWD configuration. Wheel options range from 18 to 21 inches on the 2021 Explorer. 

The interior of the Explorer is dressed with cloth and leather seats depending on the trims. But, an 8-inch touchscreen display is standard on all trims and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Similarly, a 6-speaker stereo system is standard on lower trims while a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system from the Limited trim onwards. 

Model

Base

XLT

Limited

ST

King Ranch 

Platinum

MSRP (RWD)

$32,225 $34,825 $45,005 N/A $52,350

N/A

MSRP (4WD) $34,675 $36,825 $47,005 $48,750 $54,350 $52,480

Key Features

8-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

Adds/ Upgrades to Base trim

Adds/ Upgrades to XLT trim

Adds/ Upgrades to Limited trim

Adds/ Upgrades to ST trim

Adds/ Upgrades to King Ranch trim

 

Tri-zone automatic climate control

LED signature lighting

12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system

Class III Trailer Tow Package

20-inch 10-spoke aluminum with King Ranch center cap

Illuminated front scuff plates

 

6-speaker sound system

Intelligent Acess w/Push-button Start

Leather & heated steering wheel

Perforated leather seats with contrast stitching

Hand-stitched leather seats with King Ranch logo

Twin-panel moonroof

 

Remote Start

Second-row captain chairs with power-assist fold

Ambient lighting

Voice-activated navigation system

 

Customizable instrument cluster

 

8-way power cloth driver's seat

Heated exterior mirrors

Heated & ventilated leather seats

Power tilt & telescopic steering wheel with paddle shifters  

Quad chrome exhaust tips

 

Ford Pass Connect 4G LTE Wi-Fi

hotspot

10-way power heated driver’s seat

Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist

12.3-inch instrument cluster  

Aluminum roof rails

  18-inch aluminum wheels   Wireless charging Sport suspension   Active Park Assist 2.0

Also Read:

  • Find out more about the 2021 Ford Explorer ST here
  • These are all the latest updates coming your way from Ford's stable

Buying Advice


We recommend you buying the Limited trim from the Ford Explorer lineup. This trim adds some interior features such as heated second-row seats and steering wheel, power-folding third-row seats, wireless charging, a 12-speaker  Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, a hands-free power liftgate, and a household-style power outlet. 


Also Read:

  • Which Ford vehicles get the latest SYNC 4 for 2021?
  • 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E gets Top Safety Pick recognition from IIHS 

Engine and Performance
8.0/10


The 10-speed automatic transmission also shifts with pleasant precision- Kelley Blue Book

The 2021 Ford Explorer is offered with a choice of 2 different engines. The 2.3L turbo inline-4 makes 300 hp and 310 lb-ft. of torque and is offered with the base, XLT & Limited trim levels. The ST, King Ranch, and Platinum trims are equipped with the 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine which can generate 365 hp and 30 lb-ft. of torque. For the ST trim, it is fine-tuned to generate 400 hp and 415 lb-ft. of torque. Both the engines come equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission as standard. 

The 2021 Explorer is not particularly a sporty SUV. It becomes quite apparent when you begin to drive it that the focus is more towards comfort. It soaks up the nastiest of the bumps without breaking a sweat and also without feeling too bouncy. Around the corners, body roll is noticeable but is not so much to cause discomfort. The chassis feels most at home on freeways at high speeds. In the city, its responsive steering makes it feel a lot lighter than it actually is. So maneuverability is never compromised.

When equipped with the optional trailer tow package, the 2021 Explorer with the V6 engine can pull up to 5,600 pounds. The 2.3L unit completes the 0-60 MPH sprint in 6.8 seconds and the quarter-mile flag is reached in 15.3 seconds. The V6 is capable of doing the same sprint in about 5.6 seconds. The SUV is fitted with 13.6-inch rotors in the front and 12.6-inch at the rear. In the brake test, the 2021 Explorer takes 120 feet to halt from 60-0 MPH. 

Models

2021 Ford Explorer

2021 Honda Pilot

2021 Toyota Highlander

2021 Chevrolet Traverse

MSRP

$32,675

$32,250

$34,910

$29,800

Engine

2.3L Turbo Inline-4

3.5L V6

3.5L V6

3.6L V6

Drivetrain

RWD

FWD

FWD

FWD

Transmission

10-Speed Automatic

6-Speed Automatic

8-Speed Automatic

9-Speed Automatic

Power 

300 hp @ 5,500 PRM

280 hp @ 6,000 RPM

295 hp @ 6,600 RPM

310 hp @ 6,800 RPM

Torque 

310 lb-ft. @ 3,500 RPM

262 lb-ft. @ 4,700 RPM

263 lb-ft. @ 4,700 RPM

266 lb-ft. @ 2,800 RPM

0-60 MPH 

5.6 sec

6.1 sec

7.2 sec

6.9 sec

Quarter Mile 

15.3 sec

14.7 sec

15.5 sec

15.5 sec

Top Speed 

143 MPH

130 MPH

118 MPH

130 MPH

Towing Capacity 5,600 lbs 3,500 lbs 5,000 lbs 5,000 lbs

Despite producing just 280 hp, the Honda Pilot is the quickest contender but has relatively the least towing capacity. The most powerful Chevrolet Traverse loses to the Explorer in both performance tests. On the other hand, the Toyota Highlander's performance figures give a tough challenge to the Traverse. Also, the Explorer is the only SUV to be offered in the RWD configuration. 


Also Read:

  • This is what owners of the Ford Explorer have to say about it
  • Ford introduces BlueCruise hands-free driving to take on GM's Super Cruise

Fuel Economy
7.0/10


The Explorer is mid-pack for gas mileage- The Car Connection

When equipped with the 2.3L turbo inline-4, the 2021 Ford Explorer returns 21 MPG in the city, 28 MPG on a highway, and 24 MPG combined. With the 17.9-gallon fuel tank capacity, this car manages to offer a decent range of 456 miles combined.

With the 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 under the hood, the fuel efficiency of the 2021 Explorer takes a dip and comes down to 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on a highway, and 20 MPG combined. A combined range of 390 miles is delivered when the tank is filled with gas.

Models

2021 Ford Explorer

2021 Honda Pilot

2021 Toyota Highlander

2021 Chevrolet Traverse

MPG (City)

21

20

21

18

MPG (Highway)

28

27

29

27

MPG (Combined)

24

23

24

21

Fuel Capacity (gallons)

18.6

19.5 

17.9 

19.4 

Range (City/Highway/Combined; miles) 

391/521/456 390/527/458

376/519/430

349/523/430

Despite having a small fuel tank, the Toyota Highlander has the same combined mileage as the Explorer. With 23 MPG combined, the Honda Pilot comes in third place while the Chevrolet Traverse has the worst MPG figures in this competition. 


Also Read:

  • How does Ford Explorer fare against the GMC Terrain?
  • Is the Chevrolet Equinox a better choice than the Ford Explorer?

Interior
7.5/10


While the interior design may border on uninspired, the Explorer's cabin is functional and comfortable - CarAndDriver

The interior layout of the 2021 Ford Explorer is quite simple. It has a passenger capacity of up to 7 or 6 if you opt for the second-row captain chairs. The front seats get cloth and leather treatment depending on the trims. The comfort offered is decent thanks to enough leg space. Higher trims get access to power tilt and telescopic steering wheel for proper comfort of the driver. 

The second and third-row seats also offer decent comfort levels but six-footers might get cramped in the third row. Also, the third-row seats are placed quite low thereby reducing the leg comfort for adults. Behind the third row of seats of the Ford Explorer, you get 18.2 cu-ft. of storage. Folding them will give access to 47.9 cu-ft. of cargo space. A maximum of 87.8 cu-ft. is in the 2021 Explorer, 

Models

2021 Ford Explorer

2021 Honda Pilot

2021 Toyota Highlander

2021 Chevrolet Traverse

Seating Capacity

7

8

8

8

Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)

40.7/61.8/43.0

40.1/62.0/40.9

41.2/50.3/42.0

41.3/62.1/41.0

Second Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)

40.5/61.9/39.0

40.2/62.0/38.4

39.4/58.7/41.0

40.0/60.8/38.5

Third Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in)

38.9/54.6/32.2

38.9/44.6/31.9

36.1/55.0/27.7

38.2/57.5/33.5

Cargo Capacity (cu-ft.) 18.2 16.5 16.0 23.0

The Chevrolet Traverse earns the top spot as it the most practical SUV here followed by the Explorer, The Honda Pilot offers 2.2 cu-ft. less than the Explorer while the Toyota Highlander offers just 16 cu-ft. The 2021 Explorer will offer a standard 8-inch touchscreen display on all trims. The ST, King Ranch, and Platinum trims can upgrade it to 10.1-inch vertically-oriented display with the optional Technology package. Lower trims get a 6-speaker stereo system while higher trims upgrade to a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system. 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on the 2021 Explorer, Also, the Ford Pass connects 4G LTE Wireless hotspot is available with all the trims. Thanks to its simple user interface, the SYNC 3 infotainment system is easy to understand and use. The menu layout is logical and the settings are easy to locate. However, some critics have pointed out that the larger screen doesn't improve usability. That's because the icons are small and harder to read. Some other infotainment and interior features are:

  • Power tilt and telescopic multi-function steering column
  • Leather-trimmed heated & ventilated power front seats
  • Heated & leather steering wheel
  • 8-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
  • 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system
  • Voice-recognition navigation system
  • Wood interior accents

Also Read:

  • 2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 GMC Terrain- Specs & Features Explained
  • Ford Evos unveiled in China with a lot of influence from the Mustang Mach-e

Exterior
7.0/10


Although still a fresh generation, looks-wise, this 2021 Explorer is more of an evolution- Kelly Blue Book

The 2021 Ford Explorer has an athletic stance, thanks to the slimmer headlights, sharp character lines, and tapered roof. There will also be new wheel choices ranging from 18-inch to 21-inch. The new carbonized gray-painted 20-inch wheels get on board with matching grille and hood lettering which definitely add a bit more flair to this already flashy ride. The Explorer has a very high ground clearance of 8.2 inches which is perfect for -off-road adventures. 

At the back, Its quad chrome exhaust tips surely change the rear look and make it more alluring and sporty. The Ford Explorer gets a new $1,595 XLT Sport Appearance package that adds fog lamps, chrome bumpers, and exterior trim. The wheelbase measures 119.1 inches, which is one of the widest in its segment. That very well explains its spaciousness inside. Overall, the 2021 Explorer looks quite imposing and offers quite a lot of road presence for the price. 

Models

2021 Ford Explorer

2021 Honda Pilot

2021 Toyota Highlander

2021 Chevrolet Traverse

Curb Weight (lbs)

4,727

3,982

4,145

4362 

Length (in)

198.8

196.5

194.9

204.3

Width (in)

78.9

78.6

76.0

78.6

Height (in)

69.2

70.6

68.1

70.7

Ground Clearance (in) 

8.2

7.3

8.0

7.2

Wheelbase (in)

119.1

111.0

112.2

120.9

The Honda Pilot weighs nearly 700 pounds less than the Explorer and is the lightest SUV. Its lightweight contributes to the best performance stats in this competition. With 4 inches less than the Explorer, the Toyota Highlander is the shortest SUV here. The one extra inch of the Chevrolet Traverse's wheelbase means its interior is roomy than the Explorer.  Some notable exterior features include:

  • LED taillights
  • LED DRLs
  • LED headlights
  • Chrome quad exhausts tips
  • Twin-panel moonroof
  • Aluminum grille
  • !8, 20 & 21-inch alloy wheels

Also Read:

  • 2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Honda Pilot- Specs & Features Explained
  • 2023 Ford Ranger spied testing with SuperCab, SuperCrew body styles

Safety
9.8/10


Good crash-test scores complement good standard active safety tech- The Car Connection

The 2021 Ford Explorer received an outstanding 5-star rating from NHTSA. It was awarded the 'IIHS Top Safety Pick+' award which is considered the highest accolade in terms of safety. The 2021 Explorer got 'Good' ratings in all sections except for its headlights for which it received an 'Acceptable' rating. 

Six airbags are available in the 2021 Explorer. The safety features offered in the Explorer are the best in the segment. Many essential advanced safety technologies are offered as standard while a few of them can be availed as options. Below are some safety features mentioned:

  • Driver Drowsiness Monitoring
  • Blind Spot Monitoring
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Lane Keep Assist
  • Rearview Camera
  • Pedestrian Detection
  • Forward Collision Warning
  • Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Reverse Brake Assist
  • Evasive Steering Assist
  • Traffic Sign Recognition
  • Adaptive Cruise Control

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Competition
7.0/10


2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Honda Pilot

Although similarly priced, the Honda Pilot produces 20 hp less than the Ford Explorer. yet, it is the best performer in both performance tests. However, the latter is a step ahead in terms of towing capacity and fuel economy. When it comes to the interior, the Explorer easily beats the Pilot with better interior room and cargo capacity. Also, it has the best safety features equipped. 

2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is around $2,000 costlier than the Ford Explorer. Although they have similar power figures, the Explorer displays better on-road performance. Also, it flaunts 600 pounds of towing capacity more than the Highlander. The Highlander wins some points in terms of fuel economy. But its interior is less spacious and less practical as well. 

2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The Chevrolet Traverse is the cheapest SUV in this competition. It produces 10 hp more than the Explorer and is the only SUV that gives a tough fight to the Explorer in terms of performance. The Explorer strikes back with better MPG figures. The Traverse's interior is slightly roomy than the Explorer while its cargo capacity is the best in the segment. 


Also Read:

  • 2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade- Specs & Features Compared
  • Ford F-150 electric pickup expected launch date and price

Final Verdict


The powerful turbocharged engines will never let you feel low on power. The cabin space for passengers in all the rows is decent. The main highlight of Explorer is its safety. Ford has much more to offer at this price segment than the rivals. So, if you are looking for a car with an all-round package, the 2021 Ford Explorer will not disappoint you.


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