2017 Ford Explorer: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2017 Ford Explorer continued its legacy as a capable and versatile three-row SUV, offering a blend of family-friendly features, robust performance, and a comfortable ride. This model year saw refinements and a familiar, well-established formula that resonated with a wide range of buyers seeking a dependable family hauler.
Highlights
The 2017 Ford Explorer impressed with its diverse powertrain options, comprehensive safety suite, and a selection of well-equipped trims, catering to various needs and preferences.
- Engine Options:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: This standard engine delivered a good balance of power and efficiency, making it a suitable choice for everyday driving and moderate hauling. It offered brisk acceleration and respectable fuel economy for its class.
- 3.5L Ti-VCT V6: For those seeking more robust performance, the naturally aspirated V6 provided stronger acceleration and greater towing capability. It was a no-nonsense option for those who valued brute force.
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6: The performance-oriented EcoBoost V6 was the powerhouse of the lineup, offering exhilarating acceleration and a significant boost in torque. This engine was ideal for drivers who wanted a more dynamic and engaging driving experience.
- Safety Features: The 2017 Explorer was equipped with a suite of advanced safety technologies designed to protect occupants and assist the driver.
- Standard Safety Features: Airbags (front, side-curtain, knee), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Roll Stability Control (RSC), Traction Control, and a rearview camera were standard across all trims.
- Available Advanced Safety Features:
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: This system alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots and when backing out of a parking space, enhancing situational awareness.
- Lane Keeping System: Helps prevent unintentional lane departure by providing steering assistance.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on highways.
- Forward Collision Warning with Brake Support: Alerts the driver to potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes if necessary.
- Parking Assist System: Aids in parking maneuvers, making it easier to get into tight spots.
- Trim Summary: The Explorer offered a tiered approach to features and amenities:
- Explorer: The base trim provided a solid foundation with essential features for comfortable family transport.
- XLT: Stepping up, the XLT added more comfort and convenience features, often including upgraded interior materials and exterior styling cues.
- Limited: The Limited trim elevated the luxury and technology quotient with premium amenities, sophisticated infotainment, and advanced driver-assist systems.
- Sport: Positioned as the performance-oriented trim, the Sport typically featured the more powerful EcoBoost V6 engine and sport-tuned suspension.
- Platinum: The top-tier Platinum trim offered the ultimate in luxury, with premium leather, advanced tech features, and a refined interior ambiance.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Comfortable and Spacious Interior: The Explorer provided ample room for passengers in all three rows, with comfortable seating and good cargo space.
- Smooth Ride Quality: The SUV was known for its compliant ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively, making it pleasant for long journeys.
- User-Friendly Infotainment: Ford's SYNC infotainment system, particularly with available SYNC 3, was generally intuitive and responsive.
- Available Intelligent 4WD: For enhanced traction and confidence in various weather conditions, an intelligent all-wheel-drive system was a highly recommended option.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Ford Explorer generally translated to a predictable and generally positive ownership experience, characteristic of a well-established model.
- Typical Ownership Experience: Owners could expect a reliable and comfortable SUV that performed its duties as a family vehicle admirably. Commuting, road trips, and daily errands were all handled with ease. The interior was generally durable and held up well to the rigors of family use. The driving dynamics were predictable, making it easy to maneuver for its size.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks, would follow the standard schedule for a Ford vehicle. The 2.3L EcoBoost and 3.5L V6 engines were generally considered reliable, with readily available parts and service expertise. Early adopters of the EcoBoost engines might have had to be more mindful of turbocharger maintenance over the long term, but for most, standard maintenance practices sufficed.
- Insurance: Insurance costs would vary based on individual factors like driving record, location, and chosen coverage. However, as a popular mainstream SUV with a good safety record, insurance premiums for the 2017 Explorer were generally competitive within its segment.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Ford Explorer offered a compelling package, prospective buyers should be aware of a few potential drawbacks.
- Third-Row Space Limitations: While the Explorer offers a third row, it's best suited for children or occasional adult use due to its somewhat limited legroom and headroom. It's not as spacious as some larger competitors in this regard.
- Fuel Economy: While the 2.3L EcoBoost offered decent efficiency, the more powerful V6 engines, particularly the 3.5L EcoBoost, would naturally consume more fuel. Buyers prioritizing maximum fuel savings might find other options more appealing.
- Base Engine Power: While adequate for most, the base 2.3L EcoBoost, while capable, could feel a little less potent when fully loaded with passengers and cargo, especially when merging onto highways or tackling steep inclines, compared to the V6 options.
- Ride Firmness (Sport Trim): While generally comfortable, the Sport trim's sport-tuned suspension, while enhancing handling, could result in a slightly firmer ride compared to other trims, which might be noticeable on rougher roads.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Ford Explorer stood as a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment, offering a well-rounded package for families seeking versatility, comfort, and a good range of features. With its diverse engine options, including potent EcoBoost choices, a robust safety suite, and a comfortable interior, it provided a reliable and enjoyable ownership experience. While its third-row space and fuel economy with the V6 engines might be considerations for some, the 2017 Explorer remained a capable and popular choice, delivering on its promise of being a practical and dependable family vehicle.