2021 Ford Explorer Now Comes in Value Versions of ST, Platinum Trims
One repeating criticism of the redesigned Ford Explorer in our reviews and comparisons is that, dang, it’s expensive. For 2021, many Explorers got less expensive, and now Ford is issuing another round of potential savings for its mid-size three-row SUV. Up until now, the performance-oriented Explorer ST started at $54,075 (all prices include the destination charge), while the top luxury trim, the Explorer Platinum with standard all-wheel drive, started at $55,725. Ford is adding more affordable choices of these high-dollar variants for 2021 by scaling back some of the standard content.
Related: What’s the Best 3-Row SUV for 2020?
Explorer Enthusiast ST
With a base price now squeaking under $50,000, the $49,995 starting price represents a savings of $4,080 compared with the current Explorer ST. According to the order guide provided by Ford, it won’t come with such convenience features as the Bang & Olufsen sound system, forward parking sensors, hands-free liftgate or Ford’s Co-Pilot360 Plus that adds adaptive cruise control and lane-centering steering over the basic Co-Pilot360 system that comes standard with forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
Ford says it will come with the same performance and appearance as the more expensive version, which means a 400-horsepower, twin-turbocharged V-6 mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and sport-tuned suspension; the package is also good for a 5,600-pound towing capacity. It will come standard with leather seating surfaces, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, heated steering wheel and steering-wheel paddle shifters.
- ${price_badge()}
- ${battery_badge()}${ev_report_link()}
- ${hot_car_badge()}
- ${award_badge()}
- ${cpo_badge()}
${price_badge_description}
The EV Battery Rating is based on this vehicle's current expected range relative to the vehicles expected range when new. ${battery_badge_text}
Certified cars are manufacturer warrantied and typically go through a rigorous multi-point inspection.
This car is likely to sell soon based on the price, features, and condition.
${award_blurb}
${award_two_blurb}
Shop the 2021 Ford Explorer near you
Explorer Platinum
The Explorer’s Platinum luxury trim is currently the top package with standard AWD priced at $55,725 — but now, it’s available in a rear-drive version for a cool $2,000 less, starting at $53,275 for consumers who might not need AWD where they live. In addition to the upfront savings, RWD versions of the Explorer with the 3.0-liter are rated at slightly better fuel economy, 18/26/21 mpg (city/highway/combined), versus 18/24/20 mpg with all-wheel drive.
While not a value edition, a new Explorer Platinum Hybrid joins the lineup for 2021, offering the top luxury version of the Explorer in hybrid trim for the first time; the Explorer Hybrid Platinum starts at $54,330.
All three new versions of the Ford Explorer are available for ordering now ahead of their summer arrival.
More From Cars.com:
- 2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid: Real-World Fuel Economy
- How Well Does the 2020 Ford Explorer Tow a Camper Trailer?
- 2020 Ford Explorer Review: Looking Rearward
- How Do Car Seats Fit in a 2020 Ford Explorer?
Related Video: What’s the Best 3-Row SUV for 2020?
Cars.com’s Editorial department is your source for automotive news and reviews. In line with Cars.com’s long-standing ethics policy, editors and reviewers don’t accept gifts or free trips from automakers. The Editorial department is independent of Cars.com’s advertising, sales and sponsored content departments.
