Unleash Your Adventure: Ford Explorer Xlt Vs St – The Ultimate Off-road Showdown
What To Know
- The ST builds upon the XLT’s features by adding a larger touchscreen display, a more powerful audio system, and a host of driver assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
- For the additional cost, the ST offers a more powerful engine, improved handling, a more luxurious interior, and a host of advanced technology features.
- The most fuel-efficient Ford Explorer trim is the XLT with rear-wheel drive, achieving an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
The Ford Explorer has long been a popular choice for families and adventurers alike, offering a spacious interior, robust performance, and a versatile design. With the introduction of the ST trim, the Explorer lineup has gained an even more athletic and powerful variant. In this comprehensive comparison, we pit the Ford Explorer XLT against the ST to determine which one emerges victorious in various aspects.
Performance and Powertrain
The Ford Explorer XLT comes equipped with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that generates 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
The Ford Explorer ST, on the other hand, boasts a more potent 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine that produces an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive as standard.
In terms of performance, the ST’s more powerful engine provides noticeably quicker acceleration and a higher top speed. It can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds, while the XLT takes 7.8 seconds.
Handling and Ride Comfort
The Ford Explorer XLT offers a comfortable and composed ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and spacious cabin. It handles predictably and provides a stable driving experience, even on rough roads.
The Ford Explorer ST, with its sport-tuned suspension and larger wheels, delivers a more agile and responsive handling experience. It corners flatter and exhibits less body roll, making it more engaging to drive on winding roads. However, the firmer suspension may compromise ride comfort on rough surfaces.
Interior Space and Comfort
Both the Ford Explorer XLT and ST offer a spacious and well-appointed interior. The XLT features comfortable cloth seats, a user-friendly infotainment system, and ample cargo space.
The ST takes interior comfort to the next level with premium leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium audio system. It also offers more advanced features such as heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a wireless charging pad.
Technology and Features
The Ford Explorer XLT comes equipped with a suite of advanced technology features, including a large touchscreen display, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a comprehensive safety suite.
The ST builds upon the XLT’s features by adding a larger touchscreen display, a more powerful audio system, and a host of driver assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring.
Fuel Efficiency and Range
The Ford Explorer XLT with rear-wheel drive achieves an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. With all-wheel drive, those figures drop slightly to 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
The ST, with its more powerful engine and all-wheel drive as standard, delivers an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Price and Value
The Ford Explorer XLT has a starting price of $36,675, while the ST starts at $53,875. For the additional cost, the ST offers a more powerful engine, improved handling, a more luxurious interior, and a host of advanced technology features.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Ford Explorer XLT and ST ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability, fuel efficiency, and a comfortable ride, the XLT is an excellent choice. However, if you seek exhilarating performance, agile handling, and a luxurious interior, the ST is worth considering despite its higher price tag.
The Verdict: A Tale of Two Explorers
The Ford Explorer XLT and ST represent two distinct sides of the same coin. The XLT offers a well-rounded package with ample space, a comfortable ride, and a competitive price. The ST, on the other hand, delivers thrilling performance, enhanced handling, and a luxurious interior, making it the choice for those who prioritize driving excitement.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Which Ford Explorer trim is the most fuel-efficient?
A: The most fuel-efficient Ford Explorer trim is the XLT with rear-wheel drive, achieving an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Q: Does the Ford Explorer ST come with all-wheel drive?
A: Yes, the Ford Explorer ST comes standard with all-wheel drive.
Q: How much more powerful is the Ford Explorer ST‘s engine compared to the XLT’s?
A: The Ford Explorer ST‘s 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine produces 100 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque more than the XLT’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine.
Q: Which Ford Explorer trim has a larger touchscreen display?
A: The Ford Explorer ST has a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen display compared to the XLT’s 8-inch display.
Q: Is the Ford Explorer ST more expensive than the XLT?
A: Yes, the Ford Explorer ST has a higher starting price than the XLT.
