2017 Ford Explorer

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$31,660

starting MSRP

2017 Ford Explorer
2017 Ford Explorer

Key specs

Base trim shown

SUV

Body style

20

Combined MPG

7

Seating capacity

198.3” x 70”

Dimensions

Front-wheel drive

Drivetrain

Overview

The good:

  • Sport model's performance
  • Interior quality (Platinum trim)
  • Available turbo four-cylinder engine
  • Front-seat ergonomics
  • Handling and road manners

The bad:

  • Unremarkable styling
  • Access to cramped third row
  • Sticker price climbs easily
  • Driver's footwell is too narrow
  • Modest cargo space behind third row

5 trims

Starting msrp listed lowest to highest price

Wondering which trim is right for you?

Our 2017 Ford Explorer trim comparison will help you decide.

See also: Find the best SUVs for 2023

Notable features

  • New Sport Appearance Package
  • Seats up to seven in three rows
  • V-6 engine standard
  • Turbo four-cylinder and turbo V-6 available
  • Front- or all-wheel drive
  • Hands-free liftgate available
See also: How Do Car Seats Fit in a 2017 Ford Explorer?

2017 Ford Explorer review: Our expert's take


What it is: The Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV with three rows of seats that can accommodate up to seven people. A 3.5-liter V-6 engine is standard, and a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 are available. Front- and all-wheel-drive models are offered, and competitors include the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Hyundai Santa Fe, Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander.


A new Sport Appearance Package for the XLT trim level includes 20-inch gray wheels, black and gray exterior trim, and leather and suede seat trim, among other changes.

Significant Standard Features
  • 290-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine
  • Six-speed automatic transmission
  • Front-wheel drive
  • LED low-beam automatic headlights
  • 18-inch aluminum wheels
  • Remote keyless entry
  • Cruise control
  • Air conditioning
  • Roll stability control
  • Backup camera
  • Required in every new car: front airbags, antilock brakes and an electronic stability system
Significant Available Features
  • 280-hp, turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder 
  • 365-hp, twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6
  • All-wheel drive
  • 20-inch wheels
  • Sync 3 multimedia system
  • Navigation system
  • Hands-free power liftgate
  • Dual-panel moonroof
  • Second-row bucket seats
  • Power-folding third-row seat
  • Automated parking system
  • Sony premium stereo
  • Inflatable rear seat belts
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Blind spot warning system with rear cross-traffic alert
  • Forward collision warning
  • Lane keep assist

Consumer reviews

Rating breakdown (out of 5):
  • Comfort 4.8
  • Interior design 4.7
  • Performance 4.6
  • Value for the money 4.5
  • Exterior styling 4.8
  • Reliability 4.6

Most recent consumer reviews

4.0

Transmission problem

I have owned Toyota and Honda vehicles for years. I love the space and comfort of my Ford Explorer. However I'm at 68k miles and just had to have my transmission rebuilt. If I didn't love the comfort and ride of this vehicle so much, I would trade it in tomorrow. I have my fingers crossed and praying this vehicle will hold out to 200k miles.

5.0

Explorers are great

I have had several Explorers all have been great vehicles. My newest is only a couple years old. I also still have a great running 26 year old with almost 200k miles. Never had a big or expensive problem with either. I can say the same for the BMWs, Mercedes and Infinity’s I have owned…Once these expensive vehicles warranty expired everything but their engine seemed to fall apart. My Fords are reliable and never break down (knock on wood) Not flashy like the imports but solid.

3.0

Unhappy with Fords

Love everything about this car (bells and whistles, comfort, smooth ride, quite cabin), but..... I purchased this used 3 years ago and in those 3 years it's been in the shop more than I can count. Thankfully I also purchased the Platinum extended warranty. Exhaust flex pipe, right rear wheel bearing (twice), right rear knuckle and bushings. Now told I need a whole new rear end. I don't even put on 5,000 miles in a year as I work from home and drive it very little. I would definitely advise on getting some sort of extended warranty if you really want this vehicle.

See all 369 consumer reviews

Warranty

New car and Certified Pre-Owned programs by Ford Blue Advantage Blue
New car program benefits
Bumper-to-bumper
36 months/36,000 miles
Corrosion
60 months/unlimited distance
Powertrain
60 months/60,000 miles
Roadside assistance
60 months/60,000 miles
Certified Pre-Owned program benefits
Maximum age/mileage
Fords and many non-Ford vehicles up to 10 years old with less than 150,000 miles
Basic warranty terms
90-Day/4,000-Mile (whichever comes first) Comprehensive Limited Warranty
Powertrain
Available
Dealer certification required
139-point inspection
Roadside assistance
Yes
View all cpo program details

Have questions about warranties or CPO programs?

Compare the competitors

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