2021 Ford Explorer Review

Continuing to evolve over the years, the Ford Explorer offers an intriguing package for those around Richmond, Mechanicsville, and Ashland, Virginia.

A Trio of Engine Options

The power production and overall capability of your Ford Explorer will vary, depending on the engine you select. There are three options to consider-each one delivering ample power and mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The smallest in size is a 2.3L 4-cylinder that boasts 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. These power figures are close to the output of the second motor: a hybrid 3.3L making 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque.

Finally, there's a 3.0L V6 that has two distinct tuning options, depending on the trim level you select:

• Platinum trim: 3.0L makes 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque.
• ST trim: 3.0L makes 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.

Strong Towing Capacities

A certain sense of practicality is baked into the 2021 Ford Explorer, no matter the performance arrangement you go with. Ford wants the SUV to support your daily lifestyle, so traits like towing became a vital part of the model's design.

Your 2021 Explorer will never dip below 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, for example. Here's the full towing lineup based on the three available engines:

• 3.3L V6 hybrid motor can tow as much as 5,000 pounds.
• 2.3L 4-cylinder motor can tow as much as 5,300 pounds.
• 3.0L V6 can tow as much as 5,600 pounds.

Safety Technology

Standard features, available packages, and highly developed technologies ensure your 2021 Ford Explorer is a safe place to spend time.

A few of the standard features will help you monitor and avoid vehicles driving in your blind spots, will automatically brake the SUV in the event of an accident, and will automatically flip on your headlights when it's appropriate. These features include:

• BLIS® (Blind Spot information System)
• Automatic Emergency Braking
• Auto High-Beam Headlamps

Then there's the inclusion of Active Park Assist 2.0, a godsend for those who struggle with parking. The system allows your SUV to basically park itself. All you do is line the model up with the parallel or perpendicular parking place, shift to neutral, and then hold the Active Park Assist button. From there, your 2021 Explorer will snuggle itself into place!