What’s the difference between the 2023 Ford Explorer and 2022 Ford Explorer? As it turns out, not much. Aside from shuffling around some features, the 2023 Explorer looks a lot like the 2022 Explorer. Our buying guide is here to show you exactly what that means!
Key Takeaways
- Both the 2022 and 2023 Ford Explorers offer the same eight trim levels, providing shoppers with different levels of luxury and performance.
- These Explorer model years offer identical engine options, with availability dependent on trim model.
- These SUVs share the same tow ratings, with max capabilities of 5,600 pounds.
- The 2022 Ford Explorer is slightly less expensive than the 2023 model, but only the 2023 Explorer is still available to special-order!
Trim Models
These Explorers are available as the same eight trim models: base, XLT, Limited, ST-Line, Timberline, ST, King Ranch, and Platinum. Each provides more features than the last, and the price rises as you move up the list.
Base
Choose this Explorer for the lowest price on a new Explorer. Both the 2022 and 2023 Base models are handsomely equipped, delivering everything from high-tech driver safety aids to modern infotainment. Standard features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, blind-spot monitoring, and forward collision mitigation. Spacious, supportive cloth seating, tri-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat help keep you comfortable.
XLT
Move up to this trim level for more in both comfort and utility features! Adventurous drivers will appreciate the XLT’s roof rails and heated exterior mirrors. Inside, you’ll find heated front seats, second-row captain’s chairs, and second-row USB ports.
ST-Line
The Explorer ST-Line is a stylish option, adding unique black exterior trim, 20-inch wheels, and dark-tinted headlights and taillights. Inside, the ST-Line is pretty swanky, with upscale features that include ambient interior lighting, built-in navigation, wireless smartphone charging, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Timberline
Excited to hit the trail? Then the Timberline just might be the Explorer for you! This trim model helps you cruise off-road terrain with standard all-wheel drive, a limited-slip rear differential, off-road-tuned suspension, and more.
Limited
The Limited is a luxurious option, if not as luxurious as the King Ranch or Platinum models. Inside, you’ll find leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated, power-folding second-row seats. Outside, you can identify the Limited by its extra chrome trim and 20-inch wheels.
ST
For an Explorer that’s focused on performance first and foremost, choose the ST. With its sport-bolstered front seats and sport-tuned suspension, the ST offers a very unique take on the three-row midsize crossover! These models help you keep track of performance specs with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
King Ranch
The King Ranch has a luxurious Western-theme, with Del Rio leather seating and special wood interior trim. This SUV also features the perks you expect to see from a luxury model, such as a hands-free liftgate, leather-wrapped interior panels, and driver’s seat memory settings.
Platinum
At the top of the Explorer trim model hierarchy, you’ll find the Platinum. This ultra-luxurious Explorer catches the eye with 21-inch polished wheels and diamond-quilted leather upholstery. It has its own unique style, with exclusive wood interior trim and a satin aluminum grille and exterior trim. These models also include rare perks, like adaptive headlights that swivel to improve illumination in turns and an automated parking system that steers your Explorer into a parallel parking space for you.
Power & Performance
When it comes to powertrain options, there aren’t any differences between the 2023 and 2022 Ford Explorers. Both midsize crossover SUVs 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)
- 3.3L hybrid V6 (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)
Most Explorer trim models — namely, the base, XLT, Limited, Timberline, and ST-Line — come standard with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The ST and King Ranch come standard with the V6 engine. The hybrid powertrain is standard for the Platinum and optional for the Limited. However, the V6 is also optional for the Platinum!
Towing Capabilities
Just as these model years match one another’s powertrain options, so too do they provide the same tow ratings. With the available V6 and the proper equipment, these Explorer model years can tow max loads of 5,600 pounds. With the base turbocharged four-cylinder engine, drivers can tow up to 5,300 pounds. Finally, Explorers with the hybrid powertrain can tow a trailer weighing up to 5,000 pounds, a best-in-class figure for a hybrid crossover!
MSRP
Perhaps the biggest difference between these model years is price. The newer 2023 Explorer starts at $36,760. Meanwhile, the 2022 Explorer is slightly less expensive, with an MSRP of $35,510.
You should note that the 2023 Ford Explorer is the only one you can order according to your own designs. If you’re shopping for a specific trim model and equipment, you can build the 2023 Explorer from the ground up.
You may still be able to find the 2022 Explorer available at your local dealership, but your options will be limited according to what you can find on the market.
Choose Your Explorer Model Year
So, which should you choose? If you want to special-order a new Explorer, your only option is the 2023 model! The 2022 Explorer is no longer available to order, but you may be lucky enough to find one of these midsize crossovers at the dealership. If so, your options will be limited to what you can find! Either way, you’re looking at two very similar options!