The Ford Explorer has been popular for its availability of trims for different types of driving needs. There are five trims available in the latest Ford Explorer and they are: Explorer, XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum. The standard Ford Explorer is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that is paired with a six-speed auto transmission. Two other engine choices that a driver could choose include – a turbocharged 2.3-liter V4 engine or a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine. While the front-wheel drive is standard on all Ford Explorers, an optional all-wheel drive is also available.

Since the last redesign in 2011, the Ford Explorer only had a refresh in 2016, the latest upgrade – 2017 Ford Explorer offers some new exterior styling options and change in features listing of some trims. Instead of the traditional My Ford Touch system, the 2017 Ford Explorer is integrated with the new SYNC 3 infotainment system.

Most buyers pick the XLT trim due to its affordability at $33,775, which is only slightly higher than the base model. The difference between these trims lies in the availability of features like power-adjustable front seats, proximity key, and push-button start. The Ford Explorer is fortified with upgraded brakes and rear parking sensors. The difference between the XLT and Limited trims is $8000, these differences add an extra technology on the Limited.

The Ford Explorer Sport trim is priced at $45,355 and is equipped with a terrain management system, hill descent control, a sport-tuned suspension, all-wheel drive, and a Class III towing package. While some of the convenience features that are available on the Limited trim are not available in this Sport trim; a buyer can easily add on such features at an additional cost of $2,965.

The Platinum trim is the highest trim on the Ford Explorer and is priced at $53,235. This trim has additional safety features such as forward collision warning with automatic braking, park assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, rain-sensing windshield wipers, inflatable safety belts for the second-row outboard positions, and cross traffic alert.