2013 Ford Explorer consumer reviews

The new Ford Explorer is a sharp looking vehicle. No dispute there. Our 2013 Limited with the Explorer's 3.5 liter V6 with AWD cost us an addition $2000. Steep considering the already high dollar figure of a Limited. I think for the highend Limited's base price, this engine and AWD should be standard. Choosing the Explorer in Limited form, we did not expect to be nickel-and-dimed by more than a few items "extras" including several costly packages and just under $500 for the White Platinum Tri-Coat exterior color. These shockers and the hard to phathom higher than some European dealer installed accessory items. These increased fees for certain exterior colors and an upgraded leather trim remind me of the pricing on top shelf Mercedes-Benz, Bimmers, Audi's and Volvo models. Surprising for a Ford, in my opinion. Less shocking on a Lincoln, but only if exclusive to Ford's luxury division. The interior is very attractive. We chose a gorgeous new color called Pecan, put had to select the upgraded leather option above and beyond the standard leather trimmed seats of the Limited trim edition to get this deep brown/black color scheme. No mechanical issues. A few rattles were immediately addressed with a good crew we have grow to trust over many years of dealing with the same Ford store. Sales, service and part's department personnel are courteous, knowledgable and honest. If not for this, we would have looked at AWD Jeep and Volvo SUV and crossover vehicles. It is hard breaking away from a dealership after being such loyal customers for decades. Our '13 Explorer's electrical system has been a major source of stress. Apparently others have expressed such problems with blown fuses, other snafu's and repeated issues with the Ford MyFord Touch and SYNC infotainment devices, per Ford service representatives. These features are far more gimmicky than user friendly. I have tired of such problems. So frustrating, especially when our tech savy teenagers cannot figure things out. It is nearly impossible to take a road trip without some malfunction. The voice command device does not respond to even the clearest of commands, especially for more than one person and even then there are frequent errors. My wife's voice typically elicits more accurate responses because it recognizes her inflections as the primary driver just like that of the main user of Dragon-type software on a home computer or laptop. Our initial plan was to order a 2013 Explorer Sport, a new model this season. We bought the Limited instead when learning that this new variant is priced even higher than the Limited and the scant information on the Sport edition at the start of production. We doubt the Sport would have changed our experiences of what all Explorer versions entail for 2013. We were told that the '13 is easier to live with than a 2012 version. I am not so certain but trying hard to be patient. Room? It is a little snug. Despite grumblings, we would by a larger Ford or Lincoln the next time around, but only if Ford Motor Company replaces its MyFord and SYNC systems. If not, there is a new Jeep Grand Wagoneer rumored to debut and my neighbor's Volvo XC90 and friend's XC60 are attractive vehicles that I have driven. Before buying the Explorer, I wish I had looked at what I think is roomer, the 2013 Ford Flex.

Great vehicle for my Wife. Has all the bells and whistles. MPG's is great compared to the F150 we traded for it.