What’s better, the 2023 Ford Explorer or the 2022 Ford Explorer? Is there much of a difference between these three-row midsize crossovers? Our buying guide has the answers you seek!
Key Takeaways
- Although the 2022 Ford Explorer comes at a slightly lower price, only the 2023 Ford Explorer is available to special order.
- Both model years offer the same eight trim levels: base, XLT, Limited, ST-Line, Timberline, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum.
- Each of these midsize crossovers offers the same three engine options, but availability varies according to which Explorer trim model you select.
- Both the 2022 and 2023 Explorers earned the same crash-test scores, making them equally safe options!
MSRP
One of the main differences between the 2023 Ford Explorer and the 2022 Ford Explorer is price. The newer 2023 SUV starts at $36,760, a slightly higher price than the 2022 version, with its MSRP of $35,510.
So why would you purchase the 2023 Explorer if you can get the 2022 SUV for a better price? Well, only the 2023 Explorer is available to custom order. If you want to build the perfect SUV for your needs, choosing everything from the exterior color to the trim model, you’ll need the newer model!
Trim Models
Both the 2023 and 2022 Ford Explorers offer the same eight trim models: base, XLT, Limited, ST-Line, Timberline, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. As far as features go, both model years offer almost exactly the same lineups, with some slight availability shuffling for 2023. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights from each Explorer model.
Base
The entry-level Explorer is nicely equipped with driver safety aids and infotainment features. And, of course, it delivers the Explorer’s three rows of roomy seating, along with comfort features like tri-zone automatic climate control.
- Cloth seating
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat
- Tri-zone automatic climate control
- LED headlamps
- Power liftgate
- SYNC 3 with 8-inch touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Six-speaker sound system
- Forward collision mitigation
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane departure mitigation
- Trailer sway damping
- Automatic high beams
- Reverse parking sensors
XLT
The XLT adds to the base features with a longer list of modern comforts and conveniences. This mid-level trim model is a great choice for those who want a great deal on a new ride but who also don’t want to miss out on features like roof rails and heated front seats!
- Keyless entry with push-button ignition
- Power-adjustable front passenger seat
- Heated front seats
- Second-row captain’s chairs
- Second-row USB ports
- Upgraded interior trim
- Roof rails
- Heated exterior mirrors
- Optional Co-Pilot Assist+ package (including adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, lane keeping system, navigation)
ST-Line
For a little extra style, the ST-Line adds to the aforementioned features with special trim and flashy wheels. Inside, you even get a few tech upgrades, including a premium sound system and built-in navigation.
- 20-inch alloy wheels with machined-finish
- Black exterior trim
- Dark-tinted headlamps and taillamps
- 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- Navigation with voice controls
- Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package (including adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, lane keeping system, navigation)
Timeberline
For true explorers, there’s the off-road-ready Timberline. This Explorer comes standard with everything you need to maintain traction on the trail, from all-terrain tires to all-wheel drive.
- All-wheel drive
- Limited-slip rear differential
- All-terrain tires
- Off-road-tuned suspension with extra ground clearance
- Underbody skid plates
- Front tow hooks
- Exclusive front-end design with revised grille and bumpers
- Faux-leather upholstery with cloth inserts
- Heated second-row seats (standard for 2023, optional for 2022)
Limited
If you want a luxurious Explorer without having to pay top dollar (for, say, the top-trim King Ranch or Platinum models), the Limited will have major appeal. Inside the Limited, you can revel in upgrades like leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front seats. Outside, the Limited looks flashier than lesser trims, with 20-inch wheels and additional chrome trim.
- Leather upholstery
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Power-folding, heated second-row seats
- Second-row sunshades
- Ambient interior lighting
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Extra chrome exterior trim
ST
The ST is the Explorer most focused on performance. With its turbocharged V6, sport-tuned suspension, and front sport seats, the ST delivers a ride like none other.
- Turbo V6 engine
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Paddle shifters
- Front sport seats
- 12.3-inch digital instrument panel
- Leather upholstery with faux-suede inserts
- Heated steering wheel
King Ranch
Not only is the King Ranch a very luxurious option, but it also delivers a very unique Western style. Exclusive features include Del Rio leather upholstery and genuine wood interior trim. You’ll also enjoy a premium sound system and driver’s seat memory settings!
- Turbo V6 engine
- Exclusive leather upholstery
- Wood interior trim
- Leather-wrapped interior panels
- 12.3-inch digital instrument panel
- 14-speaker B&O sound system
- Driver’s seat memory settings
- Hands-free liftgate
Platinum
The top-of-the-line Explorer couldn’t be any more luxurious! Choose this trim model for exclusive style, with special diamond-quilted leather seating and satin aluminum exterior trim. The Platinum also comes with some features that aren’t standard for any other model, such as the adaptive headlamps and automated parking technology.
- Diamond-quilted leather upholstery
- Wood interior trim
- Satin aluminum grille and exterior trim
- 21-inch alloy wheels
- Automated parking system
- Adaptive headlamps
Engine Options
Both the 2023 and 2022 Ford Explorers offer the same engine options, with availability dependent upon which trim model you select. Most trim models come standard with the base engine, a turbocharged four-cylinder that will impress you with its output of 300 horsepower. Meanwhile, the ST and King Ranch come standard with the V6, the engine option that provides the most powerful drive. The top-tier Platinum comes standard with the hybrid V6, making it the most efficient option, delivering both 318 horsepower and up to 27 mpg combined.
However, some Explorer trim levels offer optional engines. For example, although the Limited comes standard with the base four-cylinder engine, you can also outfit it with the hybrid powertrain as an option. The Platinum is available with the powerful V6 engine.
The 2023 and 2022 Ford Explorer offer the same three engine options:
- Turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine (300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque)
- Turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)Turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 3.3L hybrid V6 (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)
Crash-Test Scores
Since Ford didn’t change the overall design of the Explorer between the 2022 and 2023 model years, it probably comes as no surprise that these SUVs earned the same scores in Insurance Institute for Highway safety crash tests.
Indeed, both SUVs earned the IIHS top score of “Good” across the board, in everything from side crash tests to roof strength tests. Ford’s midsize crossover SUV even earned the distinction of Top Safety Pick+!
Choose Your Explorer
In the end, there are two major differences between the 2023 Ford Explorer and the 2022 version. First, the 2022 model costs a little less. Second, only the 2023 model is still available to order. Therefore, if you’re looking for a slightly better deal, you should check out the 2022 Explorer. But if you want to design your own Explorer, choosing everything from the trim model to its optional equipment, you must order a 2023 model!