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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2014 Ford Explorer

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Overview

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2014 Ford Explorer Review

By Matt Degen

KBB Expert Rating: 7.3

Ford's latest Explorer is a far different vehicle than those of the generations before it. What used to be a rough and rugged truck-based vehicle is now a sleeker, softer and more fuel-efficient crossover SUV. Gone are features like a 2-speed transfer case and V8 engine that enabled the old Explorer to climb mountains. In their place are more pragmatic features like a rearview camera and the MyFord infotainment system that help parents navigate school parking lots and keep the kids entertained once loaded in back. Like rivals such as the Chevrolet Traverse, Nissan Pathfinder, Dodge Durango, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Pilot, the 3-row 2014 Explorer happily accommodates families. It's not nearly as nimble as some rivals, but the Explorer has an adventurous spirit and snazzy off-road smarts.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're seeking a roomy, versatile and technically advanced SUV that's more comfortable and fuel-efficient than truck-based vehicles like the Chevrolet Tahoe or, well, a 2010 Explorer, Ford's latest will fit the bill.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you want your family hauler to feel nimble (at least for this class), check out the Mazda CX-9 or Honda Pilot. Both are easier to maneuver when parking lots get crowded and lighter on their feet when roads turn twisty.

KBB Expert Ratings

Overall Rating

7.3
Driving Dynamics

7.2
Comfort & Convenience

6.8
Design: Interior & Exterior

7.8
Value

7.0
Safety

7.8

How It Ranks

#11

out of 12

MPG

#2

out of 13

Horsepower

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Consumer Rating

7.7 out of 10

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consumer ratings

What's New for 2014

Only minor changes are in store for the 2014 Explorer. Among them are automatic on/off headlights with wiper activation that become standard on all models, and 2nd-row heated seats that are now included in Limited models.

Driving the Explorer

2014 Ford Explorer Front angle view photo

Driving Impressions Just as the latest-gen Explorer shed its old skin for a more refined, contemporary image, and so it goes when you hop behind the wheel. The Explorer feels more like...

a soft-sprung sedan than a rigid truck because its underpinnings are essentially the former. This makes for a comfortable – bordering on lumbering – ride. Visibility to the front and sides is good thanks to a commanding view from the driver's seat. But rearward visibility suffers from blind spots. We quickly became thankful for the wide-view mirrors and available blind-spot monitoring system. The 2014 Explorer's base, 290-horsepower V6 feels adequate for routine driving, but has to work hard to move this vehicle's 4,500-plus pounds up steeper hills. A lower-horsepower but higher-mileage 4-cylinder is available, as is a potent turbocharged V6 introduced in 2013 Explorer Sport models. Four-wheel-drive (4WD) models have the slick terrain-management system (see Favorite Features below for why we like it).

Favorite Features

TWIN-TURBOCHARGED V6 ENGINE
Introduced in 2013 in the range-topping Explorer Sport trim, this 365-horsepower engine provides much-appreciated power to Ford's big SUV while returning respectable fuel-economy figures.

TERRAIN MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Similar to the advanced system used in Land Rover vehicles, this feature enables drivers to optimize 4-wheel-drive Explorer models for snow, mud, or ruts with the twist of a dial.

2014 Ford Explorer Details

2014 Ford Explorer Dashboard, center console, gear shifter view photo

Interior

2014 Ford Explorer models feature three rows of seats and hold six or seven passengers depending on configuration. Even the 2-passenger third row is livable for adults. The second row features a 3-person bench or, and for added comfort, can be had with two bucket seats. Both rear rows fold nearly flat to create a vast 80.7 cubic feet of cargo area, and both have power-folding availability. The large front seats are split by a wide transmission tunnel with built-in armrests and two of the Explorer's eight cupholders. Seat material is cloth in lower trims and leather in higher versions.

Exterior

While not as boxy as past versions, the 2014 Explorer still has an athletic presence thanks to well-defined sheet metal that's bolstered by bulges in just the right places. Of particular prominence are creases running along the sides just aft the front wheels that convey muscle and motion. At the rear is a one-piece liftgate. Below, dual exhaust tips lend a sporty look. Sport models are edgier with an ebony grille, darkened wheels, and headlights with blackout treatment. Wheels range in size from 17 to 20 inches.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The 2014 Ford Explorer is available in four trims: Base, XLT, Limited and Sport. Just over $30,000 for a base version buys you quite a bit of vehicle with a V6 engine, single-zone climate control with rear auxiliary climate control and power driver's seat. Standard audio is a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD system with aux and USB inputs. Walking up trim lines can net you leather, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable pedals, and Ford's Sync entertainment and communications system. Standard safety features include Roll Stability Control and Curve Control, the latter of which can slow the vehicle if it senses you're taking a corner too quickly.

Optional Equipment

Depending on the depth of your pockets, the Explorer can be a relatively basic people hauler or an amenity-filled technological thriller. Optional on V6 models is 4-wheel drive (standard on Sport editions) in place of front-wheel drive (FWD). The smaller, more fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine can be had on all but Explorer Sport trims. Adaptive Cruise Control and blind-spot monitoring are available, as is a lane-departure system that can nudge you back into the lane should you wander. Rear-seat inflatable seatbelts are also noteworthy. The power liftgate with height adjustment is always appreciated when you're arms are full. Rear-seat passengers can be spoiled with a dual-screen DVD system and dual-panel moonroof.

Under the Hood

Three engine choices reside under the hood of the 2014 Explorer. Standard is the 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 that is adequate for most peoples' needs, but not overwhelming. Optional is a smaller, turbocharged 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine whose headline is a 28-mpg highway EPA rating. The top dog, exclusive to the Sport model, is the turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost good for 365 horsepower. All 2014 Explorer models have a 6-speed automatic transmission. Those with a V6 engine feature Ford's SelectShift version that enables drivers to shift gears manually. The souped-up Sport model takes that notion further with paddle shifters for those instances you want to mimic a racecar driver. All engines can run on regular unleaded, though premium is recommended for the EcoBoost variants. Tow rating is 2,000 pounds for 4-cylinder models and 5,000 pounds for V6 versions.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
240 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
270 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 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
365 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
350 lb-ft of torque @ 3,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/22

Pricing Notes

The 2014 Ford Explorer has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting at $30,495 for a base version with front-wheel drive. The mid-level XLT version starts at $33,495, and a top-trim Sport model is $41,675 before options. At these prices, the Explorer doesn't stray far from competitors such as the Chevrolet Traverse, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Pilot. Hyundai's new 7-passenger Santa Fe, meanwhile, starts a few hundred below the $30K mark. If you're just looking for a new, 3-row crossover SUV with a rock-bottom price, a basically equipped 7-seat Dodge Journey can be had in the low-$20,000 range. Before buying, be sure to check the Fair Purchase Price to ensure you get the best deal. In terms of resale value, the Explorer's value is predicted to hold up quite well with residuals ahead of the Dodge Durango, in line with the Traverse and Pilot, but below the Highlander.

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2014 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