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2023 Ford Explorer
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- Family-Friendly Second-Row Amenities: Built-in sunshades, ceiling vents with a panoramic sunroof, second-row climate controls, USBs, and even a household outlet make the second row a great place for kids — and a huge plus for pumping moms or long road trips.
- Excellent Car Seat Flexibility: Every seating position has its own lower anchors and tether anchors, which gives parents a ton of flexibility for different car seat configurations.
- Sporty Drive With Real Power: The Explorer drives zippy, peppy, and confident, especially compared to other midsize SUVs
The Exterior
If you saw the Explorer from the side only, I’m just going to say it — you might think it’s a Range Rover. The side profile is where this car really shines.
The front end feels modern and upscale, with wraparound headlights and small Explorer badging tucked into the headlight — a detail I loved. The side body lines are clean and sporty, and overall the Explorer looks far more high-end than previous generations.
The taillights are pretty basic and don’t add much personality. That said, the front and side profiles more than make up for it.
First Row
Interior: Comfortable, Capable, and Mostly Well Done
Let’s talk interior — because this is where families spend their time.
Front Row & Tech
- Digital driver display
- Responsive, full-color infotainment screen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Wireless charging
- Multiple USBs + USB-C + 12V outlets
The infotainment system is fast and intuitive, but I’ll be honest — the screen feels a bit like an iPad glued onto the dash. I wish it were angled toward the driver for better visibility.
Ford still leans a bit industrial in their interiors (very F-150 vibes.
Second Row
The second row is where this Explorer really impressed me.
- Excellent legroom, even with the front seat set for a tall driver
- Built-in sunshades
- Ceiling vents and a panoramic sunroof
- Climate controls
- USBs and a household outlet
- Heated second-row seats on higher trims
The Explorer offers bench seating or captain’s chairs. With captain’s chairs, this becomes a 6-passenger vehicle, which I’m totally okay with — because squeezing three people into most third rows this size just isn’t realistic.
Car Seat Setup
- Lower anchors and tether anchors in every seating position
- Excellent flexibility for different car seat configurations
- Wide-opening doors make loading kids easier
- Third row headrests are non-removeable
Inflatable Seat Belt Warning
Some Explorers were previously offered with inflatable seat belts, which are NOT compatible with many car seats. If you’re shopping used, double-check this before buying.
Third Row
The Explorer’s third row only has two seats, and honestly? I love that.
- Better elbow room
- No awkward middle seat belt interfering with car seats
- Comfortable for kids and adults
I installed a forward-facing seat back there with zero issues — no overhang, solid tether access, and ceiling vents (a must).
I do wish there were USBs back there, but cup holders are included.
Trunk
With the third row up, the trunk space is fine, not massive. A stroller fits, but it takes a little maneuvering and may require opening the under-floor storage for extra clearance.
Safety
The 2023 Ford Explorer is an IIHSTop Safety Pick. It features standard Ford Co-Pilot360 technology including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping.
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