What the 2024 Ford Explorer offers across its lineup

The 2024 Ford Explorer comes in five trim levels — Base, XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum — each with a different set of standard features and price point. Ford also offers optional packages within most trims that add specific capabilities: the Intelligent 4-Wheel Drive package, the Co-Pilot360 Plus driver information bundle, and the Premium Audio package are the most common. Understanding which trim matches your needs and which packages add real value requires knowing what each one actually includes, not just the marketing names.

The Base model starts with front-wheel drive, a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, and cloth seating for five passengers. Moving up to XLT adds features like dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen with Ford's Sync 4 system, and roof rails. Limited and King Ranch add leather, panoramic sunroofs, and upgraded audio. Platinum is the top tier with premium leather, a power liftgate, and additional luxury appointments. Each step up also increases the engine options available — the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 becomes standard on Limited and above.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2024 Explorer offers five trims from Base to Platinum, with each step adding comfort and convenience features rather than fundamental capability changes.
  • All trims can be ordered with either front-wheel drive or intelligent 4-wheel drive, and the 3.0-liter V6 engine is available on XLT and higher trims for an additional cost.
  • The Co-Pilot360 Plus package bundles driver information features like adaptive cruise control and lane centering, and is available on XLT and above.
  • Seating configurations vary by trim: Base and XLT seat five, while Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum can be ordered with a third row that seats seven or eight depending on the middle-row configuration.
  • Optional packages like Premium Audio and the Convenience Package (power liftgate, remote start, heated seats) let you customize features without jumping to a higher trim.

Engine and drivetrain choices across trims

The 2024 Explorer uses a 2.3-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder as the standard engine across all trims. This engine produces 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy for the 2.3L with front-wheel drive is rated at approximately 21 city and 26 highway miles per gallon, though real-world numbers vary based on driving conditions and whether you use the optional 4-wheel drive system.

The 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 is available on XLT trims and above for an additional cost. This engine produces 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, also paired with a 10-speed automatic. The V6 improves towing capacity from 5,600 pounds (2.3L) to 5,900 pounds, and offers noticeably stronger acceleration. Fuel economy drops slightly to approximately 19 city and 24 highway with the V6 and front-wheel drive.

Intelligent 4-Wheel Drive is available on all trims as an option. This system includes terrain response modes (Normal, Slippery, Sand, and Mud) that adjust power distribution and traction control. With 4-wheel drive, fuel economy decreases by roughly 1 to 2 miles per gallon across both engines. The system includes a locking rear differential on models equipped with the V6 engine.

Seating and interior configurations

The Base and XLT trims are configured as five-passenger vehicles with a second row only. The middle row uses a 60/40 split-folding bench seat that can accommodate three passengers, or a captain's chair configuration that seats two with a center console between them. Base models come with cloth upholstery; XLT and above offer leather or leather-trimmed options.

Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum trims can be ordered with an optional third row that adds two additional seats. With the third row installed, the vehicle seats seven passengers (using the bench middle row) or eight (using captain's chairs in the middle row). The third row is best suited for children or shorter trips, as legroom is limited. With the third row folded, cargo space is 18.2 cubic feet; with both the second and third rows folded, cargo space expands to 87.8 cubic feet.

Heated front seats are standard on King Ranch and Platinum, and available as part of the Convenience Package on XLT and Limited. Ventilated front seats are available on Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum. Panoramic sunroofs are standard on Limited and above, and available on XLT as part of the Panoramic Roof Package.

Technology and driver information packages

All 2024 Explorers come with Ford's Sync 4 infotainment system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen on Base and XLT models, and a 10.1-inch touchscreen on Limited and above. Sync 4 supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, both wired and wireless on higher trims. The system includes voice control, a six-speaker audio system on Base, and an available 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system on Limited and above.

The Co-Pilot360 Plus package is available on XLT and higher trims and bundles several driver information features: adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane centering, blind spot information system, and rear parking sensors. This package costs several hundred dollars but is often bundled with other options. Co-Pilot360 (the base version without lane centering) comes standard on all trims and includes forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.

Navigation is not standard on any trim but is available through the Sync 4 system. A wireless charging pad for compatible phones is available on Limited and above. Rear seat entertainment is not offered on the 2024 Explorer.

Exterior and convenience features by trim level

Base models come with 18-inch steel wheels, roof rails, and a manual liftgate. XLT adds 18-inch aluminum wheels, a power liftgate, and remote start. Limited and above include a hands-free power liftgate that opens when you kick your foot under the rear bumper while holding the key fob. King Ranch and Platinum add unique exterior styling, including a different grille design and badging.

The Convenience Package, available on XLT and Limited, adds heated front seats, a power liftgate (if not already standard), remote start, and a few other minor features. This package is often a cost-effective way to add heated seats without moving to a higher trim. All-terrain tires are available on XLT and above as an option, useful if you plan to drive on unpaved surfaces regularly.

Roof racks and crossbars are standard on all trims. A roof-mounted cargo carrier can be added through Ford's accessories catalog. Towing mirrors with integrated turn signals are available on XLT and above.

Comparing trim-to-trim value and common package combinations

The jump from Base to XLT is typically the most significant in terms of added features per dollar: you gain dual-zone climate control, an upgraded infotainment system, power liftgate, remote start, and aluminum wheels. The XLT is often the best value for buyers who want comfort features without the premium pricing of higher trims.

Limited adds leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and the 10.1-inch touchscreen, making it the choice for buyers prioritizing interior comfort. King Ranch offers a distinct design and additional luxury touches but at a notably higher price point. Platinum is the top tier and includes nearly every available feature, making it the choice for buyers who want everything Ford offers without selecting individual packages.

Most buyers who want the V6 engine and 4-wheel drive pair those options with XLT or Limited trims. The combination of the 3.0L V6, intelligent 4-wheel drive, and the Co-Pilot360 Plus package on an XLT or Limited creates a well-rounded vehicle suitable for both daily driving and occasional off-road use. Buyers focused on towing should prioritize the V6 engine and 4-wheel drive, as these improve both towing capacity and stability when pulling a trailer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get the third row on an XLT trim?

No, the third row is only available on Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum trims. If you need three rows of seating, you must move up to Limited as a minimum. The third row adds approximately 10 inches to the overall length of the vehicle.

What is the difference between King Ranch and Platinum?

King Ranch emphasizes a distinct exterior design and leather with unique stitching and trim patterns, while Platinum focuses on maximum comfort and technology features. Both seat seven or eight passengers and offer similar mechanical capabilities. Platinum typically includes more standard features, while King Ranch is priced slightly lower but offers a more distinctive appearance.

Is the 3.0-liter V6 worth the extra cost over the 2.3-liter?

The V6 adds approximately 100 horsepower and improves towing capacity by 300 pounds. If you plan to tow regularly or want noticeably stronger acceleration, the V6 is worth considering. If you drive primarily on highways and rarely tow, the 2.3L offers adequate performance with better fuel economy.

Do I need 4-wheel drive on the 2024 Explorer?

Four-wheel drive is optional on all trims and is most useful if you live in an area with snow or ice, or if you plan to drive on unpaved roads. Front-wheel drive is sufficient for most daily driving and costs less upfront and in fuel. The intelligent 4-wheel drive system does improve traction in slippery conditions, but winter tires on a front-wheel-drive model often perform better than all-season tires on 4-wheel drive.

What packages should I prioritize if I'm buying an XLT?

The Co-Pilot360 Plus package is the most practical add-on for XLT buyers, as it bundles several safety and convenience features. The Convenience Package adds heated seats and other comfort features at a lower cost than moving to Limited. The Premium Audio package is worth considering if you spend significant time in the vehicle and want better sound quality than the standard six-speaker system.