The entry-level engine for the 2021 Ford Explorer is a 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet torque. If you opt for the ST or the Platinum trim, the engine becomes a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 making 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, plenty of power for what the road throws at you.

There are five trims available on the 2021 Ford Explorer, including the base, XLT, Limited, ST, and Platinum. Standard among all trims is a power liftgate to help you load the cargo area. The XLT adds roof rails to haul all your gear and accessories needed on your next adventure. Moving up to the Platinum gives you a sunroof and hands-free liftgate to add further convenience when loading cargo.

Regardless of the engine you choose, both are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission connected to a rear-wheel drive. Moving up to the Platinum gets you all-wheel drive, which is optional on other trim levels. The ST trim adds more sporty features, including a sport-tuned suspension and paddle shifters. A Class 3 trailer tow package and enhanced brakes come standard on the Platinum and are an optional feature on the ST.

Starting at the base trim, the 2021 Ford Explorer is quite well-equipped. Standard across the line is a power-adjustable driver's seat, automatic tri-zone climate control, 50/50 split-folding rear seats, 35/30/35 split-folding midrow bench seats, an 8-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and remote monitoring and control with the Ford smartphone app. Moving up to the XLT trim adds exterior keypad and keyless entry/ignition, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, second-row captain's chairs, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and USB ports for the second row. Upgrading to the Limited adds ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, second-row sunshades, heated and power-folding midrow seats, navigation with voice control, wireless charging, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system to enjoy your music on your travels. Choosing the sporty ST trim gives you a digital instrument panel, front-seat memory functions, and sport front seats. The top-end Platinum adds upgrades such as a digital gauge cluster display, power-folding rear row seats, extended leather upholstery, a 10.1-inch touch screen attached to a 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, dual-screen rear entertainment system, and massaging front seats for the ultimate in luxury.

The 2021 Ford Explorer has many safety features that are standard for all trims to keep you and your passenger safe on the road. These features include frontal collision mitigation, trailer sway control, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features are available as well, such as front parking sensors, a surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, adaptive headlights, and a lane-centering system. You can drive confidently knowing that Ford has your safety covered.