2016 Ford Explorer
The 2016 Ford Explorer marked a significant mid-cycle refresh for the popular SUV, bringing updated styling, a more refined interior, and enhanced technology. It continued to offer a compelling blend of practicality, capability, and a comfortable ride, making it a strong contender in the three-row SUV segment.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The 2016 Explorer offered a trio of robust engine choices to suit different needs and priorities:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I4: This turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivered a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, providing ample oomph for daily driving and light towing. It was a step up in performance from its predecessor.
- 3.5L Ti-VCT V6: The naturally aspirated V6 offered a more traditional, smoother power delivery, ideal for those who preferred a larger displacement engine. While not as fuel-efficient as the EcoBoost, it provided a solid all-around performance.
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (Sport trim): This high-performance twin-turbocharged V6 was reserved for the Sport trim, offering exhilarating acceleration and commanding power, making the Explorer feel surprisingly athletic.
- Safety Features: Ford equipped the 2016 Explorer with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies designed to protect occupants:
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: This system uses sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alerts you if a vehicle is approaching from either side when you're backing out of a parking space.
- Lane-Keeping System: This feature helps prevent unintentional lane departure by providing steering assistance and visual alerts if the vehicle drifts out of its lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Forward Collision Warning: This advanced cruise control system can automatically adjust your speed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead. The forward collision warning provides audible and visual alerts if a potential collision is detected.
- Standard Airbags: The Explorer came equipped with a full complement of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, offering comprehensive protection for all occupants.
- Rearview Camera: A standard rearview camera aided in parking and maneuvering, providing a clear view of the area behind the vehicle.
- Trim Summary:
- Explorer: The base model offered a well-equipped package with essential features for a comfortable and safe experience.
- XLT: Stepping up to the XLT added more convenience and comfort features, often including upgrades to interior materials and additional technology.
- Limited: The Limited trim elevated the luxury quotient with premium interior appointments, advanced tech features, and often more powerful engine options.
- Sport: The Sport trim was the performance-oriented option, featuring the potent 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and unique styling cues for a more engaging driving experience.
- Platinum (new for 2016): Introduced as the pinnacle of the Explorer lineup, the Platinum trim offered an ultra-premium experience with the highest level of luxury materials, advanced features, and the powerful EcoBoost V6.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- SYNC 3 Infotainment System: The 2016 model year introduced the significantly improved SYNC 3 infotainment system, boasting a more responsive touchscreen, user-friendly interface, and enhanced smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were not standard but some later models might have received updates).
- Adjustable Pedals: Available adjustable pedals allowed drivers of varying heights to find a comfortable driving position.
- Power Folding Third Row Seat: This convenient feature made it easier to expand cargo space when needed.
- Terrain Management System (with 4WD): The available Terrain Management System allowed drivers to select different modes (e.g., normal, mud/ruts, sand, grass/gravel) to optimize the vehicle's performance for various conditions.
What to Expect
Owning a 2016 Ford Explorer typically offers a comfortable and capable experience, particularly for families. The ride quality is generally smooth and compliant, absorbing road imperfections well, making it suitable for long journeys. The cabin is spacious, providing ample room for passengers in all three rows, though the third row is best suited for children or shorter adults. The cargo space is generous, especially with the third row folded down.
Maintenance: Routine maintenance for the 2016 Explorer generally aligns with other vehicles in its class. This includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements according to Ford's recommended schedule. The EcoBoost engines, while efficient, can be sensitive to oil quality, so using the correct type of synthetic oil is important. More complex repairs might be more expensive due to the complexity of the turbocharged engines or advanced electronic systems.
Insurance: Insurance costs for a 2016 Ford Explorer will vary based on individual factors such as driving record, age, location, and the specific trim level and engine chosen. Vehicles equipped with more advanced safety features might qualify for slight discounts. Its popularity and mid-size SUV classification generally place it within a moderate insurance cost bracket.
Potential Considerations
- Third-Row Space: While advertised as a seven-seater, the third row can feel a bit cramped for adults on longer journeys.
- Fuel Economy (V6 Engines): While the 2.3L EcoBoost offers decent fuel economy, the larger V6 engines, especially the EcoBoost V6 in the Sport trim, will consume more fuel.
- Infotainment System Reliability (Early SYNC 3): While SYNC 3 was a major improvement, early iterations of any new infotainment system can sometimes experience minor glitches or software issues. Ensuring software updates have been applied is advisable.
- Ride Quality (Sport Trim): The Sport trim's sport-tuned suspension, while enhancing handling, can result in a slightly firmer ride compared to other trims.
- Rear Visibility: Like many larger SUVs, rearward visibility can be somewhat limited, making the inclusion of parking aids and rearview cameras particularly useful.
Overall Summary
The 2016 Ford Explorer stands as a capable and well-rounded family SUV. Its mid-cycle refresh brought significant improvements in styling, technology, and the introduction of the luxurious Platinum trim. Offering a choice of efficient or powerful engines, a comfortable and spacious interior, and a strong emphasis on safety, the Explorer proved to be a solid option for those seeking a versatile vehicle for daily commuting and family adventures. Despite minor considerations regarding third-row space and the fuel consumption of its more potent engines, the 2016 Explorer delivered a compelling package that continued its legacy as a popular choice in the competitive SUV market.
