Ford is adding three new trim levels to its successful 2021 Explorer SUV — a vehicle that already gave consumers five choices. New to the lineup are a rear-drive version of the upscale Platinum trim, a Hybrid Platinum, and an Enthusiast ST trim that brings some performance tweaks into a more affordable price range.
Orders begin today but the first vehicles won’t arrive at Ford dealerships until summer.
There is already a sportier Explorer available in the form of the ST trim. But it’s pricey — starting at $52,830 (plus a $1,245 destination fee). Ford says demand for that model has been higher than anticipated. But it also thinks there is a market for a more affordable sporty version.
New, Less Expensive Performance ST Trim
The Enthusiast ST comes at an MSRP of $48,750. It has the same 400-horsepower, sport-tuned 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, 10-speed automatic transmission, and performance-tuned suspension as the more expensive ST. But it deletes the upscale audio system, heated second-row seats, 360-degree camera, and navigation to bring the cost down. It’s not without luxury, coming with standard perforated leather seats, a heated steering wheel, and 20-inch aluminum wheels.
The upscale Platinum trim is now available with rear-wheel drive (RWD), rather than only in all-wheel drive (AWD). At $52,480, it saves you $2,000 over the AWD Platinum and carries all the same equipment, including the twin-panel moonroof and leather on most cabin surfaces. Outside, it features a satin aluminum insert, liftgate appliqué, lower bodyside cladding insert, roof-rack side rails, and a unique grille with a satin aluminum finish.
Finally, the Hybrid Platinum comes at $53,085. It carries all the same equipment as the Platinum models but adds a 3.3-liter V6 hybrid drivetrain. It offers 315 horsepower, an EPA-estimated 23 miles per gallon city, 26 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined.
