2023 Ford Expedition vs 2023 Ford Explorer

When you need a 3-row SUV, you’ve got three popular choices at Ford. The Expedition, Expedition Max and Explorer offer many price points to match your budget.

How are these full size SUVs the same? How are they different? We answer your questions here. The knowledgeable staff at Rodeo Ford dealer is ready to show you more about what’s presented here.

1. What are the Trim Levels?

   Ford Explorers come in 8 trim options, offer three engines, and several seating configurations. This makes these family SUVs a more customizable choice than the Expedition. The larger Ford 3 row SUV comes in five trims and two engine choices. There’s also the 2023 Ford Expedition Max which is available in four trims.

   Explorers start with a base model. The 3-row Explorer trim levels include XLT, ST-Line, Timberline, Limited, ST, King Ranch and Platinum.

   Regular Expeditions start with the XL STX. Then the ladder includes the XLT, XLT Max, Timberline, Limited, Limited Max, King Ranch, King Ranch Max, Platinum and Platinum Max.

   Ford’s higher trim levels are well-known for providing distinctive exterior upgrades and interior appointments. Top models are so luxurious that you could mistake them for luxury SUVs. However, they are Ford tough as well as stylish with incredible fit and finish.

2. What Sizes are the Ford 3 Row SUVs?

   Explorer family SUVs seat 7 people on three rows. Big and spacious, passenger volume is 152.7 cubic feet.

   You can be sure that Explorers have generous first and second row space. Second-row passengers enjoy 42 inches of headroom and up to 43.9 inches of legroom. Side seats slide, and even the middle seat has a recline function. The third row has significant head room and enough legroom to be hospitable.

   

   Explorers look large until parked by an Expedition. That’s because the Expedition has an extra 20 cubic feet of passenger volume. This allows for a more spacious third row with 36.1 inches of legroom. Plus this big SUV has 43 inches of second-row legroom.

   The 2023 Ford Expedition Max has a passenger volume of 172 cubic feet, only a bit more than the regular Expedition with 171.9 cubic feet. That’s because the Max model is really about added cargo space.

3. How Much Cargo Space is on a Ford Family SUV?

   With the seats up, the Explorer cargo hold is typical of most 3-row midsize SUVs. The same is true of the standard Expedition. At 18.2 or 20.9 cubic feet, these holds are bigger than large sedan trunks. Power liftgates make it easy to access your gear.

   Expedition Max models have a cargo hold measuring 36 cubic feet. This is almost as big as most two-row SUVs. Naturally when the seats are folded, the Max has the most total space.

   

   In either the Explorer or Expedition, Ford’s PowerFold third row is an excellent feature for those who need to haul gear. It does all the work for you. The available power-folding second row adds another level of convenience.

4. What are the Engine Choices for these Big SUVs?

   Expeditions are powered by a 3.5-liter Ecoboost. This delivers 380 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.

   In comparison the Explorer has a 300-horsepower standard engine that generates 310 lb-ft. It has an alternative 3-liter Ecoboost that is more about performance. Output is 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.

   For the top performer, the Expedition has a performance tuned Ecoboost that generates a whopping 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft.

   

   Adding a third choice to the Explorer menu, the Limited Hybrid has a special powertrain with electric assistance. A true hybrid, it still manages to generate 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft.

5. How Much Can the Expedition or Explorer Tow?

   Explorer Hybrids can tow 5,000 pounds. That’s a lot of weight. The Ecoboost Explorers are rated slightly higher at 5,300 or 5,600 pounds.

   

   If you want to tow more, the Expedition models tow 6,000 pounds with a standard tow package and 9,200 or even 9,300 pounds with a heavy duty package. Expedition Max 4x4s can tow 6,300 pounds or 9,000 pounds.

   Ford large SUVs benefit from towing technology that can help you hook up the trailer or back it up into a difficult spot. Ford is one of the few automakers to have blind spot coverage as part of its blind spot system. You can check out these systems at our Rodeo Ford dealership where financing is available now.

6. Can Full Size SUVs Go Off Road?

   Ford has worked to make sure there’s plenty of sport in big sport activity vehicles (SUV). Even with rear-wheel drive, these full size SUVs have high ground clearance.

   With four-wheel drive, they have terrain management. This includes drive modes labeled slippery, mud, snow/sand, and trail. There’s also a tow mode for easier hauling.

   The Expedition Max doesn’t have a specific off-road trim, but the Explorer and Expedition Timberline fill this role easily. These big SUVs have more equipment, a higher ground clearance, and other adjustments to make them ready for the trail.

7. What’s Standard on Ford SUVs Today?

   The Explorer seats 6 or 7. It has a power liftgate and rear parking sensors. Generous driver aids help keep the vehicle out of harm’s way. An 8-inch Sync screen interfaces with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

   The Expedition, which seats 7 or 8, is similarly outfitted, although there are some style differences. These family SUVs really can seat large families in style.

   Higher trims have a 12-inch horizontal touchscreen that is quicker and more responsive. King Ranch trims have a western-style theme featuring real wood and brown leather. Challenging luxury SUVs, Platinums go even further with top amenities and the most exciting driver technology.

   Tri-zone climate controls, rear vent, and available ventilated seats can keep you cool in the hottest Arizona summers. Rear entertainment systems are available to keep the kids occupied on long trips. An available WiFi hotspot lets the whole family log onto their smart devices on the go.

Conclusion

Now that you know the difference in these Ford full size SUVs, it’s time to schedule a test drive.

Your destination is the Rodeo Ford dealership, serving Phoenix drivers.