The Explorer is offered in Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum models, but no matter the model, it comes with three well-designed rows of seating and room for up to seven (the second row comes with two bucket seats for adults). While the third row is kid-sized, it's easier to fold than those on just about any other model, thanks to the simple, single-button power-folding system. Parents will also note that LATCH fasteners for child seats are included in the second-row outboard positions. Both the second and third rows flip forward, giving a cavernous amount of cargo space.

The base 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine makes a healthy 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, with fuel economy at a class leading 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway and a 5000-lb tow capacity this engine is real workhorse. A beefier 3.0L Ecoboost V6 is available producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, with tow ratings all the way up to a 5600-lb maximum when properly equipped.

The available Intelligent 4-wheel-drive system in the Explorer is available with all engines, and it is designed with the urban driving done by most Explorer owners in mind. The system includes a Terrain Management system that recalibrates itself for snow, sand or mud when needed. With 4-wheel drive, there's also Hill Descent Control, to help maintain composure on steep, slippery slopes.

Standard equipment on the Explorer is more extensive than what is found in most mainstream-brand vehicles. Cruise control, power adjustable driver seat, 8 USB ports, four 12-volt power points, a 13.2-inch touchscreen, FordPass Connect 4G,

multi-zone climate control with separate rear controls, cap less fuel-filling and the MyKey control/monitoring feature are all standard on the base model.

The ST trim adds paddle shifters, a dual-exhaust, sport suspension, front and rear painted calipers, 2 skid plates, a power sunroof, power folding side mirrors, LED fog lights, 21-inch wheels, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, seating for 6, heated and cooled front seats, massaging lumbar in the driver seat, driver seat memory, a 14-speaker sound system, voice activated navigation, adaptive cruise control, wireless device charging, surround view cameras, and a heated leather sport steering wheel.

Standard safety features across the lineup include parking sensors, active lane departure, blind spot warning, forward and rear collision mitigation, front pedestrian detection, a driver attention alert, and front cross traffic mitigation.