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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2013 Ford Explorer

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2014 Ford Explorer

Overview

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2013 Ford Explorer Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 7.4

When Ford introduced the all-new Explorer last year, it didn't just do a slight refresh of the existing model. Instead, Ford created an entirely new vehicle unlike any Explorer before it. For 2013, the Explorer continues to attract new buyers swayed by its sleek, almost Land Rover-like good looks, cutting-edge technology and efficient engine choices, including the first turbocharged 4-cylinder engine ever to grace an Explorer engine bay. With seating for seven, the Explorer is definitely family-friendly and, thanks to an advanced multi-setting 4-wheel-drive system, the family can now venture confidently off-road (something the old Explorer wasn't very good at). Ironically, the one vehicle that stands to lose market share to the Explorer is its own sibling, the Ford Flex.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're seeking the room and versatility of a big SUV, but don't like the idea of a poor-handling, fuel-thirsty land barge that's nearly impossible to park, Ford's 2013 Explorer deserves a good look. Additionally, the Explorer has a beautifully-designed interior and is an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you're hoping for the high-mileage EcoBoost engine and 4-wheel drive, you'll be disappointed to learn the fuel-efficient 4-cylinder is available only on front-wheel-drive models. The Explorer's limited 5,000-pound tow rating may also be a deal killer.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

7.4
Driving Dynamics

7.3
Comfort & Convenience

6.9
Design: Interior & Exterior

7.9
Value

7.1
Safety

7.9

How It Ranks

#31

out of 39

MPG

#5

out of 40

Horsepower

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Consumer Rating

7.7 out of 10

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consumer ratings

What's New for 2013

For 2013, a new Sport trim joins the Explorer fleet, offering a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, standard 4-wheel drive, 20-inch sport alloy wheels and two-tone leather-trimmed seats. New features for the Explorer include a passenger-side front knee airbag, available heated steering wheel and auto-dimming headlights.

Driving the Explorer

2013 Ford Explorer Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions It takes only a few minutes of seat time in the 2013 Ford Explorer to realize this is no ordinary SUV. The rigid unit body has none of the squeaks...

and rattles so commonplace in most truck-based SUVs, while Ford's Curve Control throttle intervention helps maintain a safe speed when rounding sharp corners. The Explorer's adept suspension is aided by a host of electronic assists designed to make this mid-size SUV handle like a lithe sport sedan. Our short time testing the Terrain Management 4-wheel-drive system netted some pretty impressive results, especially considering the Explorer's modest 7.6 inches of ground clearance and somewhat soft suspension. Still, we wouldn't put this vehicle up against a Toyota 4Runner, for example, whose body-on-frame architecture and hi/lo transfer case make it more conducive to serious off-road challenges. Then again, few truck-based SUVs can match the 2013 Explorer's outstanding fuel economy, exceptional cabin comfort, user-focused functionality and class-leading connectivity.

Favorite Features

MYFORD TOUCH
This latest version of Ford's driver-connect technology is standard on the Explorer Limited and available on the XLT. It utilizes an expanded version of the automaker's SYNC voice-command system to allow and facilitate a broader range of input commands for the audio, navigation, climate control and phone systems.

CURVE CONTROL
A world-exclusive, this standard safety enhancement automatically senses when the vehicle is entering a given corner too quickly and automatically engages throttle and braking intervention to help it maintain the desired driving path.

2013 Ford Explorer Details

2013 Ford Explorer Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

Look inside most trucked-based SUVs and you'll find the same utilitarian dash and door panels as their pickup truck counterparts. Not so with the 2013 Ford Explorer, where an elegant cabin is awash in high-quality, soft-touch surfaces. The Explorer's instrument cluster is clean and simple on the base models and, on the XLT and Limited, it can be upgraded to include the MyFord Touch package that features configurable LCD screens in place of the traditional analog gauges. At the rear, a single-piece rear liftgate opens to expose 15.7 cubic feet of cargo space, which can be expanded to a maximum of 80.7 cubic feet by folding down both rows of rear seats.

Exterior

With the 2013 Explorer, Ford has jettisoned the boxy, upright design of old and replaced it with an elegant body highlighted by a boldly-rakish front end. The Explorer's tall doors and lower roof give it a slick, almost low-rider look, as do the Sport and Limited's 20-inch wheels. But, the design is an optical illusion because there is plenty of headroom inside as well as ground clearance below (7.6 inches to be exact). The Explorer's wide track benefits interior occupants with more hip and shoulder room, as well as greatly aids in improved handling and cornering.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

In addition to its V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission, the 2013 Ford Explorer boasts numerous power assists, MyFord driver connectivity, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio with media hub, air conditioning, cruise control, tilt/telescoping steering column and more. The XLT adds auto headlights, foglights, 18-inch wheels, rearview camera with zoom function, premium cloth upholstery, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, SecuriCode keyless-entry pad and the SelectShift feature. Leather-upholstered, the Limited gets all that and the XLT's Driver Connect and Comfort Packages – plus a Sony premium audio system with HD Radio. Safety items include AdvanceTrak with Roll Stability Control and Curve Control and Hill Start Assist.

Optional Equipment

For 2013, all Ford Explorers offer 4-wheel drive with multi-mode Terrain Management System and Hill Descent Control. XLT buyers can add the Driver Connect (MyFord Touch/SYNC, premium audio, dual-zone climate control and rearview camera). The Limited's Luxury Seating Package (perforated leather, heated/cooled front seats, power-folding third-row seat, power liftgate and navigation) is available with or without the 302A Group (Blind Spot Information System, adaptive cruise control, Auto Park, HID headlamps and rain-sensing wipers). Stand-alone options for the XLT, Limited and Sport models include navigation, dual-panel power moonroof, power liftgate, inflatable second-row outboard seatbelts, power tilt/telescopic and heated steering wheel and the blind spot system.

Under the Hood

The 2013 Explorer's standard engine is Ford's high-tech 3.5-liter Ti-VCT (twin-independent variable camshaft timing) V6 that makes 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. With the 6-speed automatic this engine delivers class-leading 17/25 mpg city/highway EPA numbers in front-drive Explorers and 17/23 mpg in the 4WD versions; it also accelerates from zero to 60 mph in roughly eight seconds and gives the Explorer a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity. Optional on front-drive models is the new 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine that makes 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, but is recommended to use premium fuel. Fuel economy ratings for the EcoBoost are an estimated 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The Sport gets a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine rated at 350 horsepower.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
240 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
270 lb-ft of torque @ 1,750-4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/28 mpg

3.5-liter V6
290 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
255 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/24 mpg (FWD), 13/18 mpg (E85), 17/23 (4WD), 12/17 mpg (4WD E85)

3.5-liter turbocharged V6
350 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
350 lb-ft of torque @ 1,500-5,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: NA

Pricing Notes

The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2013 Ford Explorer starts at just over $29,500 for a base model, with an Explorer XLT around $33,000, the top-line Explorer Limited close to $38,700 and the Sport trim near $41,500. Opting for 4-wheel drive will add another $2,000, but even a fully-loaded base Explorer should still slip in around $35,000. These prices are right in line with the Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee, but add options and the Explorer's price is a bit higher than those of the Hyundai Veracruz and Mazda CX9. Before you head to the dealership, check the Fair Purchase Price on kbb.com to ensure that you're getting the best deal. When it comes to resale, KBB projects the Explorer will retain better-than-average residual values over time.

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2013 Ford Explorer Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

7.7

Out of 10

Based on 86 Ratings for the 2011 - 2014 models.

Review this car

Value

7.8/10

Quality

8.0/10
Reliability

8.1/10

Performance

8.3/10
Comfort

8.4/10

Styling

8.5/10

Ford has stepped up their game!

By RachelK (KY) on Thursday, July 25, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 3,800

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Room, design, features, gas mileage"

Cons: "Turn signal kinda tricky"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This re-designed Explorer is GREAT! It drives so much better than the previous Explorers and it's soooo roomy! I can fit all of my family's luggage in the back and still have room for visibility and comfort! The wider and longer Explorer make it much more roomy on the inside too, and my kids finally have enough room to fall asleep, if they aren't watching movies! I can not live without the backup camera! I'm so glad Ford did what they did to the Explorer, it has really paid off!!"

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Ford should not have re-designed

By What happened to the leg room? (MD) on Tuesday, July 23, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 1,000

10 4.0

overall rating 4 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 4/10
Value: 1/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 5/10
Comfort: Not Rated

Pros: "Back-up camera, MyTouch, Towing Ability"

Cons: "Leg room, Poor visibility, Gas mileage"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"I purchased my 2013 Ford Explorer XLT over two weeks ago and wish I had not. I did not notice what is referred to as the "dead pedal" on the left side of the floor board when test driving but after purchasing realized I could not stretch my left leg out! I am 6'3" which is above average height but I am no giant. The old Explorer had plenty of leg room which is odd that they changed it. I feel cramped whenever I drive long distances because I cannot stretch out in this thing. I took it back to the dealership to see if I could trade it on a F-150 but they informed me I would take a huge loss. I would not recommend this vehicle to anyone who is over 6 feet tall. The new Explorer looks good with some awesome features but not for someone with height."

3 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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Wonderful Machine!

By Jonathan (FL) on Monday, July 22, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 8,600

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "MyFord, Gas Mileage, Comfort, Features"

Cons: "No such thing!"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I bought this car 2 months ago and I drive all accross town, it gets Great MPG even in the City! At times I was topping out at 24! That's just with the regular V6 engine! The MyFord Touch system is amazingly fast and helpful and the navigation helps me get to where I need to be on time. My Kids have PLENTY of room in the back seats and really enjoy looking out the moonroof and watching movies on the back of the front head-rests. I have owned Explorers all of my life and have no plans of buying anything else!"

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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AWESOME!

By HA713 (GA) on Sunday, July 21, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 4,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Nice, high quality, quiet ride"

Cons: "None at all!!"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This Explorer is AMAZING! It has great MPG and handling! I have completed long journeys in this car in comfort and style, and haven't had one problem! This Explorer is a Must-Have!!"

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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2013 Ford Explorer Base with Ecoboost

By Mrsb (TX) on Saturday, July 20, 2013

I owned and sold this car
Reason: Husband wanted a new 2014 Mustang - My approximate mileage is 18,500

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Decent price, loved the interior, comfy seats"

Cons: "weird emgrcy brake, sometimes noticeable turbo lag"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I purchased my 2013 Ford Explorer base in May 2012. I upgraded to leather as I did not want cloth that comes with the base model. It was nice but I have a 3 year old and cloth seats wont survive juice spills like leather will. It was an upgrade of 1000 bucks. Totally worth it. I had 2 escapes an 06 and 09 model prior to upgrading to this explorer. I owned a 03 explorer prior to the escapes. I was iffy about the redesign and I did not want to rush out and by the 2011 model when it came out. I test drove this vehicle 3 different times before I decided to proceed with my purchase. I had a few gripes i've listed them here: Cons- The emergency brake would hit my shin on my left leg when entering or exiting the vehicle. I am 5'5 and i think its just awkwardly placed. It didnt seem to bother my husband who is 6'5. They do not come with cabin air filters. After about 9-10 months my ac developed a funk smell. I took it in and was informed i needed a cabin air filter with parts and labor $60 bucks from dealership...crazy. I order the part ($16) and installed myself. You would think paying 30k for a vehicle a cabin air filter would be in there. If you plan to extend rear face and happen to have a large rear facing car seat it can be a pain in the rear. I managed to fit my sons Diono Radian XTSL just fine but it took a little adjusting. Honestly that's the only stuff I can come up with. I fell in love with this truck and while I am sad to see her go I am gaining my husbands 2013 ecoboost f150 with all the options that my base model explorer doesnt have. I averaged over the life of my explorer 22.4 mpg thats with combined city and hwy and I traded her in at aprx 19k miles. I did a lot of city driving/ idling and hwy over my 19k miles. I would spend about 60 bucks every 2 weeks refueling. I can honestly say that when i used premium my explorer performed much more powerfully. She seemed more responsive to acceleration. I used regular unleaded majority of the time. I reserved the premium fuel for when I took the toll roads."

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Ford has out done themselves.

By bskrich (IL) on Friday, May 31, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 17,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "looks quality my touch system and the ride"

Cons: "turn signal lever."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I cant say anything bad about my suv because i would be lying. the ride and comfort make you feel like your gliding on air. the my touch system is very nice. took a bit to get use to the commands it needs to do things but you'll get it."

1 person out of 2 found this review helpful

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See all 86 reviews