2018 Ford Explorer review: does the classic still have it?

The Ford Explorer has been a popular choice since it was first launched nearly three decades ago. But with no redesign since 2011, does it still match up to others in the segment? Take a look at this week's review.

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#FamilyWheels #Ford #Fordexplorer

[Tacit]

Surprised to see you haven't reached 100k subs. Definitely deserve it.

[anthonyciampaglia]

We have been getting 20 miles per gallon in the 18 explorer xlt 4x4 with the 3.5 v6 non turbo motor

[diegomontoya]

I'm not sure about the Canadian market, but in the US we get a "Limited" model, which is essentially what you have in that fully loaded XLT, but it also gives you the 2.3L EcoBoost engine, which has more torque and better fuel economy than the old V6. Not sure if it tows that well, however. I think the XLT is meant to be a simpler model. If one is going to add $11, 000 in options, they'd likely just buy the Limited model.

[friskballa]

Great reviewing style. I like the honesty. Is it possible for you to review the 2018 Ford Edge as well? Just want to hear your take on it. I’d really appreciate it!

[ChandlerCharityTV]

Love your reviews Paul, keep up the great work! <3

[jamesburrough]

As you said. Old powertrain and tech. Old platform, engine and transmission. I'd pass at this point, especially at those prices.

[swanblake]

Friend of mine has the top Sport trim, 2018 and the engine mount gave way while his wife was driving her two girls to school. The engine dropped and crushed the axles. Lost control of the car and luckily just went in a ditch. This had 2, 000 miles on it. Ford tech said the robot never put the bolts in the mounts and cross threaded the others. Dealer fixed it and wouldn't even give a complimentary oil change. Ford HQ sad this is A normal problem and after A month of arguing, got only a 3 month extended warranty. A $60k car. Ford junk. Horrible build quality, horrible customer service. Feel so bad for him. Also the wife is too scared to drive it now so he has to. Sit next to him at work so I heard all the phone calls to Ford.

[newdefsys]

I've owned a surplused 2018 Interceptor model for almost 2 years now. It has the 3.7 Duratec V6. After 5000 miles on the trip odometer I was averaging 19.2 MPG/US with a mix of city and highway daily commutes. The Interceptor has full time AWD 50/50 front-&-rear (no terrain management system) and driving in 3-to-4 inch snow conditions has been a breeze, (much more stable than my old '08 mustang). The 3.7L Duratec is rated for 305 HP. That might sound impressive but it only makes at 279 lb⋅ft of torque and the vehicle weighs in at a hefty 4500lbs so acceleration is not exactly going to blow your socks off but it will get up to highway speed in good time and it offers enough passing speed with confidence so its been a great vehicle for long range interstate trips.
Overall I am pleased with the '18 Explorer/Interceptor even though mine has the very basic interior package. Oh, also, Ford added extra cushioning to the Interceptor front seats and I have to say they are almost as comfortable as Mercedes seating (almost), they're very cushy and comfortable.

[Trades]

The base 3.5L V6 is a bit of a pig especially when mated to the old 6spd auto. IMO the XLT or Limited 2.3L Ecoboost I4 is the best combo between pricing, fuel efficiency and features for your money. The Sport & Platinum 3.5L Ecoboost V6 is a rocketship & the latter can be decked out to near luxury car status of material & features, but it also stickers for ~$66k which is a lot of coin for a Ford, but then again you can blow the doors off a Q5 2.0T, X3 xDrive30i and GLC 300 and when loaded up cost about the same.

However there's no denying the Explorer is getting old - Ford knows this too hence the 2020 Explorer would be completely revised with a RWD architecture based on the Expedition, use the same 10spd automatic & there are rumors that there is a Hybrid version. You'll probably see these examples first however in the hands of law enforcement - Ford is giving the new Explorers to Police first as Interceptor utility cars given officers are preferring the AWD, extra space and roomy interior for their line of work.

[troyklassen]

As always nicely done, we owned a2015 for about a 3 mths and got rid of it, poor fuel mileage, small interior, large exterior and left drivers foot well with no room.

[mobgma]

53K CDN + GST + PDI for a Ford. no thanks

[AGC]

For those with their hearts set on owning a reasonably priced SUV yes...I think this Explorer delivers. But the fact is SUV's are more about "status". It's popular. With a little more practicality than a sedan but no were as useful as a pick-up truck (which are comparably priced). If I were in the market for a "utility vehicle" I'd buy a F150 truck with an off-road package. They are structurally stronger. Need to be to have payload ratings of up to 3000 lbs and tow ratings of up to 12, 000 pounds. And there are now "luxury trucks". Best of both world. To make the SUV owner happy and motivate them to upgrade to a truck.

[chrismurphy]

Nice and easy review. Straight to the point

[jakes]

Are those hvac controls specific to the xlt or specific to Canada by chance? Im used to seeing the tiny little circle buttons that control those functions. Food for thought, idk why anyone would get a limited over a fully loaded xlt like this. The xlt looks much better and is considerably cheaper with the same features/options you get in the limited. Great review though, keep it up. I love seeing large suvs and trucks on your channel.

[chrish]

Nice review Paul. How would this compare to a Ford Flex, which is essentially a Ford Explorer without the lift for a few $K less?

[rogerthat]

I'd get this in black with black grills & wheels so I can scare people driving on the passing lane.

[UncleBuckle]

Brrr... Too early for snow. Won't be long until Roger is driving the old man around.

[aaronjamesguevarra]

What would be your overall personal choice for a 3 row SUV? Why?

[vladsaghin]

Is that really snow at this time of the year?! :O