Best Used Ford Explorer Trims & Configurations
Now that you know the best used Ford SUV model years, here
are the most popular trim levels to buy used from 2010 to 2023 with the top
models from each trim level listed underneath.
Best Used Ford Explorer XLT SUVs

1. The 2013 Ford Explorer XLT has exclusive safety
tech upgrades, like blind-spot warning systems and inflatable seatbelts. For
those looking for a used SUV with off-road power, this model year offers
18-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, automatic headlamps, and fog lamps. Kelley
Blue Book's pricing starts at $9,914.
2. While the 2016
Ford Explorer XLT may not have the most advanced infotainment system since
it's an older model, it gives you everything you need at a reasonable price. It
includes driver assistant technology, Bluetooth connectivity, rearview camera,
and cruise control. You can expect to pay from $8,500 to $30,990, according to
TrueCar.
3. The 2017 Ford Explorer XLT is a solid modern used
SUV option with a reasonable lifespan. Its fuel economy ratings are 16 mpg city
and 24 highway. Kelley Blue Book's pricing starts at $14,770.
4. The 2019 Ford Explorer XLT has a 3.5L V6 engine
with 290 hp that can go from 0 to 60mph between 5.7 and 7.5 seconds. It has a
6-speed automatic transmission for powerful front wheels. Not to mention, its
fuel efficiency ratings are reasonable at 16 mpg city and 22 highway. Pricing
for a used 2019 Ford Explorer XLT starts at $25,015, according to Kelley Blue
Book.
5. The 2021 Ford Explorer XLT is ideal if you want
advanced amenities without paying the price of a newer model. It features
standard heated seats, an optional heated steering wheel, and a unique interior
color. CARFAX's average pricing for a used 2017 Ford Explorer XLT ranges from
$28,720 to $40,999.
Best Used Ford Explorer Sport SUVs

1. If you're looking for a used sporty SUV with modern
interior features, the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport is for you. The MyFord
Touch has a high-resolution and soft touch display with extra supportive front
seats for long drives. Edmunds states the average pricing for a used 2014 Ford
Explorer Sport is around $5,548 to $16,811-which is a steal for the upscale
designs offered!
2. The 2015 Ford Explorer Sport is a cost-effective
used SUV option. Its turbocharged four-cylinder V6 engine has a highly rated EPA fuel
economy of 23 mpg combined. The average cost ranges from $10,495 to
$25,998, according to TrueCar.
3. The 2016 Ford Explorer Sport boasts responsive
driving with sport-tuned suspension, 6-speed automatic transmission, and
standard AWD. Its powertrain has a turbocharged V6 engine with 365 hp. CARFAX's
average pricing ranges between $13,890 to $21,995.
4. The 2017 Ford Explorer Sport offers three engines
to satisfy various SUV driving preferences. According to Edmunds, it has
"outstanding quietness" and premium cabin trimming materials. TrueCar's average
price range is between $9,999 to $33,999.
5. The 2019 Ford Explorer Sport has the best all-around
performance of the 5th generation. It has a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine and 350
lb.-ft of torque, going from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 secs. Kelley Blue Book's
average pricing starts at $18,894.
Best Used Ford Explorer ST SUVs

1. Since the 2020 Ford Explorer ST is lighter than
the third-year generation models, you can expect a higher powertrain
performance. It has AWD with 500 hp and 415 lb.-ft of torque on the 3.0L
EcoBoost V6 engine. As a result, it can go from 0 to 60mph in 5.2 seconds-which
is impressive for a midsize SUV! Kelley Blue Books' pricing average is $33,265.
2. The 2021 Ford Explorer ST has a 3.0L
twin-turbocharged V6 engine with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. It can also go
from 0 to 60mph in 5.2 seconds. What makes this a great model year is that it's
highly dependable due to its increased suspension and AWD. Kelley Blue Book's
average cost is $38,308.
3. Gain all the benefits of upgraded amenities at the price
of a used SUV with the 2022 Ford Explorer ST. Features include a
12-speaker stereo, surround-view camera, hands-free liftgate, and heated
second-row seats Average costs range from $20,580 to $46,941.
4. The 2023 Ford Explorer ST is a newer used model
year with competitive safety tech features and quick acceleration. From
lane-centering systems to a turbo V6 engine with 10-speed transmission, this
SUV is powerful and practical. TrueCar's average pricing is $31,990 to $59,875.
Best Used Ford Explorer Limited SUVs

1. What sets the 2010 Ford Explorer Limited apart is
its robust trailering strength. It has up to 7,115 lb. towing capacity and
20-inch alloy steels. It includes a standard 4.0L V6 engine or optional 4.6L
V8 engine with up to 315 lb.-ft of torque. According to U.S. News &
World Report, the average price is between $8,080 to $10,513.
2. The 2014 Ford Explorer Limited has a luxurious
cabin and advanced tech features for an almost decade-old SUV. Rearview cameras
and frontal collision warnings come standard in this trim-which is crucial for
a large crossover SUV. The interior has an updated MyFord Touch system with a high-resolution
display and two additional screens. Kelley Blue Book's average costs start at
$11,529.
3. The 2016 Ford Explorer Limited offers advanced
technology and impressive configurations. Features include 8-way power
passenger seating, a 12-speaker Sony sound system with HD radio, power-folding
outside mirrors, and a hands-free power liftgate. Average pricing ranges from
$13,848 to $21,995.
4. The 2017 Ford Explorer Limited has valuable
features at reasonable pricing for what it offers. Depending on the used
vehicle listing, it has two engine options. First is a 3.5L engine at 290 hp or
a 2.3L EcoBoost
4-cylinder powertrain at 280 hp and up to 310 lb.-ft of torque. Costs range
from $14,770 to $19,592.
5. The 2019 Ford Explorer Limited offers upscale
comfort amenities, like heated and ventilated front seats, premium leather
materials, and power-folding third-row seats for more space. It's available as
4WD and AWD, while other trims for this model year only offer AWD. Kelley Blue
Book's average costs start at $24,215.
Best Used Ford Explorer Platinum SUVs

1. The 2010 Ford Explorer Platinum is an ideal option
if you're looking for a standard midsize SUV with strong towing and
off-roading. The towing
capacity is above average, up to 7,000 lbs., with trailer sway control and
4WD for various terrains. It's great for family-friendly adventures with
spacious passenger room and cargo space. Average costs are between $2,000 to
$8,975.
2. Enjoy modern amenities at a lower cost with the 2016
Ford Explorer Platinum. It has premium leather cabin materials with wood
interior trim. It's practical and luxurious, with easy center touchscreen
access, stability control, and LED fog lights. Edmunds' pricing ranges from
$9,842 to $27,943.
3. The 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum brings quiet and
spacious cabin comfort. With expanded cargo space behind the third row and an
optional turbocharged V6 engine, it brings plenty of power and room. TrueCar's
average cost is between $16,997 to $31,998.
4. The 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum is part of the 5th
generation, offering plenty of speed. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3
secs with a light touch of the gas pedal. As a sizable three-row
crossover used SUV, the speed is impressive. Kelley Blue Book's average
pricing starts at $19,697.
5. The 2019 Ford Explorer Platinum has one of the
best powertrain performances, with a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine and 350 lb.-ft of
torque. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 secs with 4WD and 6-speed automatic
transmission. Kelley Blue Book's average costs are around $24,215.
Best Used Ford Explorer Hybrid SUVs

1. The 2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid Limited has an
impressive distance range of over 500 miles. With a combination of 5,000 lbs.
towing capacity, a 3.3 L V6 engine, 318 hp, and 322 lb.-ft of torque, this Ford Explorer
generation model is a solid value for a hybrid SUV.
2. The 2021 Ford Explorer Hybrid is only available in
the Limited trim. The NHTSA gave it a 5 out of 5 overall safety
rating with an expanded cargo room and 10-speed automatic transmission.
Pricing ranges from $37,995 to $54,265.
3. The 2023 Ford Explorer Hybrid is part of the
newest 6th generation with a gasoline and electric battery, offering the best
of both worlds. It can tow up to 5,000 lbs. with an average price of around
$33,723.
Used Ford Explorer SUVs with the Best Towing Capacity

1. The 2015 Ford Explorer has a towing capacity
starting at 2,000 lbs. When properly equipped, it can handle up to 5,000 lbs.
compared to its newer generation counterparts.
2. The 2018 Ford Explorer offers three engine options
with varying towing capacities. The 2.3 L EcoBoost engine with a towing package
can haul between 2,000 to 3,000 lbs. Or you can upgrade to the 3.5L or 3.5L
EcoBoost V6 engines for just under 5,000 lbs.
3. The 2022 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,300 lbs.
with its towing package. Combined with an optional AWD and four-cylinder
engine, this model offers sufficient towing strength.
4. The 2023 Ford Explorer RWD improved its handling
and towing
capabilities. The trailer towing package offers convenient access to the
receiver hitch, has tow-haul transmission mode, and blind-spot monitoring that
covers the entire trailer length. Its max towing capacity is 5,300 lbs.
5. The 2010 Ford Explorer can tow up to 7,000 lbs.!
With an above-average capacity combined with a standard electronic stability
system on all trims, this model year is ideal for heavy trailering in heavy
winds and rough terrains.
Used Ford Explorer SUVs with the Best Interior

1. The 2014 Ford Explorer Sport is known for its
premium interior design without the hefty price tag. From the aesthetically
pleasing texture of the driver controls and the supportive front seats to the
voice-activated Sync system, this trim is an attractive choice.
2. The 2016 Ford Explorer Platinum is the epitome of
the upscale interior SUV design. Even in used vehicles, you can enjoy luxury
materials like quilted leather and wood-accented seating. It also comes with a
standard dual-panel sunroof, so you elevate the viewing experience.
3. The 2017 Ford Explorer Sport has generous cabin
space, which is practical for families who need more comfort and storage. The
seats include padded armrests, wider front seats, and minimal noise for
relaxation during long trips.
4. The 2019 Ford Explorer Limited has significant
interior upgrades worth considering. Not only are the infotainment and tech
systems modern as a newer used model year, but they're easy to use too. With
assigned radio buttons, gripping volume knobs, and large gauge cluster display
screens, this trim boasts interior design benefits for drivers.
5. The 2023 Ford Explorer King Ranch is a top choice
for the best interior as it's one of the newest model years. With extra space
cargo inside and a third row, it's visually satisfying and practical. Not to
mention, you get to enjoy the most advanced features from a current generation,
like Wi-Fi hotspots and an optional 10.1-inch vertical display screen.
Best Used 4x4 Ford Explorer SUVs

1. The 2010 Ford Explorer Platinum wins again for the
best used 4x4 SUV category. It's a strong contender because it stands out as a
midsize crossover due to its truck-based body-on-frame design. Its exterior
strength combined with 4WD and low-range transfer is still a robust off-roading
option-even as an older generation model.
2. The 2011 Ford Explorer Limited may not have the
truck body-on-frame design as the 2010 model year, but it's more than capable
for those rugged roads. Its Terrain Management System combined with Hill
descent control strengthens its traction for diverse conditions.
3. The 2021 Ford Explorer Timberline is arguably one
of the most off-road capable used SUVs. It has increased 4WD, ground clearance,
all-terrain tires, and new departure angles for easier off-road exploring.
4. The 2022 Ford Explorer ST has an all-around great
4WD performance for a used SUV. Not only is it more athletic than other trims
in this model year, but it also has extra power and suspension.
5. The 2023 Ford Explorer Timberline offers the
benefits of the 2021 model year and more. It has serious off-roading
capabilities for icy roads and dirt trails. Features include a limited-slip
rear differential, all-terrain tires, and off-road-tuned suspension.
Should You Buy a Used Ford Explorer SUV Under $15,000? $10,000?
While it's understandable to save on costs when shopping for
used SUVs, you may be sacrificing the quality. Many used Ford Explorer SUVs
online are posted even under $10,000. However, we strongly recommend taking
caution with prices that low-especially for pre-owned vehicles.
There may be issues with it that can cause more to fix than
investing in a reliable used SUV option. Private sellers may not have properly
addressed older recalls with a Ford dealership or lack critical maintenance.
In most cases, you can find a decently used Ford Explorer
for sale for around $12,000 to $15,000 from a reputable GMC-certified dealer.
Used Ford Explorer SUVs for Sale in Santa Fe, NM
Whether you're searching for the best used Ford Explorer to
buy at discounted rates or a newer used model to enjoy modern upgrades, we have
them for sale at Octane GMC in Santa Fe, NM.
Our wide inventory of used
SUVs for sale ranging in various makes, model years, conditions, and prices
to suit your budget and driving preferences. Visit our dealership for a test
drive today!