Vehicle Design
Starting with the exterior design, both the Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride have bold and stylish designs that make them stand out on the road. The Ford Explorer is a little larger and more imposing, with a larger grille and more angular lines, while the Kia Telluride has a more boxy and tamer look, with a large front fascia and angled wheel arches. When it comes to dimensions, the Ford Explorer is slightly larger, but both vehicles offer plenty of interior space and seating; up to seven passengers in the Explorer and eight in the Telluride.
2023 Ford Explorer Design
The 2023 Ford Explorer is a sight to behold with its modern, yet nostalgic design. This SUV is perfect for anyone looking for sophistication and capability all-in-one. The SUV's exterior is available in a range of striking colors that are sure to turn heads. The hood has an imposing slope, and a high beltline gives the Explorer a more aggressive stance than the Telluride. The bold lines across the sides and 20-inch aluminum wheels complete the look, providing the Ford Explorer with a strong personality and dynamic feel that is sure to make any driver happy.
Compared to its predecessors, the 2023 Explorer has exterior design cues from classic off-roading vehicles, but with modern updates. The Explorer has a reinvented grille with raised lettering, sleek curves, and horizontal LED headlights that evoke nostalgia with a contemporary twist. LED tail lights wrap around the back of the vehicle highlighting its sculpted touring look. The approach angle has been increased to improve performance when going over terrain. The Explorer also offers increased visibility on all four sides, providing drivers with more confidence when driving in congested areas or exploring unknown roads.
With its remarkable blend of suave styling and powerful performance, the 2023 Ford Explorer is sure to impress even the most discerning of drivers.
2023 Kia Telluride Design
The Kia Telluride has kept most of its standard exterior design so the design changes for the 2023 model year are minimal. These include updated front and rear bumper styling, revised headlights and taillights, updated grille inserts, and updated aluminum wheel designs. The SUV also offers 3 new paint colors, including Jungle Green, Dawning Red, and Midnight Lake Blue.
The interior is much the same as before, but the SUV now offers different trims, new colors such as Gray and Navy, Terracotta, and Sage Green. The SX Prestige features premium Nappa leather in Terracotta and simulated suede headliner, which gives the cabin a more upscale appearance.
Engine & Performance
When it comes to performance, both the Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride offer power and capability. The Ford Explorer is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, while the Kia Telluride is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that only produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Both vehicles offer a smooth and confident ride, with responsive steering and tuned suspensions.
Both the Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride also offer all-wheel drive and four-wheel drive systems, which provide improved traction and handling on rough roads and in challenging weather conditions. The Ford Explorer offers a number of off-road technologies, such as hill descent control and a terrain management system, that make it a great choice for adventurous drivers.
2023 Explorer Performance Review
The 2023 Ford Explorer boasts a powerful and efficient performance that is perfect for drivers who demand power and style. The base, XLT, and Limited trims come equipped with a 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that provides ample power to the Explorer.
Those looking for a more commanding performance can select the King Ranch, Platinum, or ST models, which utilize a 3.0-liter V-6 twin-turbocharged engine that generates 400 horsepower. A hybrid powertrain setup option is also available, blending a 3.3-liter V-6 engine and an electric motor to produce 318 horsepower in total.
While the hybrid makes sense for city driving, the standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine is sufficiently potent on the highway. The Explorer's ride and handling are composed, and the Explorer ST offers a more athletic and exciting experience thanks to its extra power and stiffer suspension. The Explorer can tow up to 5600 pounds when properly equipped, and all-wheel drive is available as an option. The 10-speed automatic transmission is standard across all models.
The Explorer has varying fuel-economy ratings due to its different powertrain and drivetrain combinations. The hybrid model is rated the most fuel-efficient, with up to 27 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The four-cylinder Explorer with all-wheel drive gets an estimated 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Overall, the 2023 Ford Explorer's engine and transmission options provide drivers with powerful performance, while the all-wheel drive and towing capabilities make it a versatile and practical SUV for any task.
2023 Telluride Performance Review
The 2023 Kia Telluride has a naturally aspirated V-6 engine that delivers 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Along with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the standard front-wheel drive format can be upgraded to all-wheel drive across all trims. While the Telluride SX can reach 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, it may not be as responsive to throttle inputs at lower speeds as its turbocharged rivals.
While the ride is on the firm side and can get thrown off course on harsh pavement, the self-leveling rear air suspension available for the Telluride can provide additional support. The brakes are decent, and the steering has a distinct heft to its feel. The Telluride also boasts 8.0 inches of ground clearance for off-road adventures and can tow up to 5000 pounds.
Unlike some of its competitors, the Telluride is solely available with a V-6 powertrain. According to EPA estimates, the Telluride's fuel economy is rated at 20 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway with the front-wheel-drive configuration. With all-wheel drive, the fuel economy ratings drop slightly to 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Technology & Interior Features
In terms of technology and features, both the Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride offer infotainment systems, including large display screens and a range of connectivity options. The Ford Explorer features Ford's latest Sync 4 infotainment system, which offers a range of intuitive and easy-to-use features, such as hands-free calling and music streaming. The Kia Telluride, on the other hand, features Kia's infotainment system, which offers a range of standard features, such as a 360-degree camera system and an integrated navigation system.
2023 Explorer Interior & Tech
The 2023 Ford Explorer boasts a comfortable and practical vehicle cabin, especially for those in the first two rows. Getting to the third row is a breeze with the touch of a button that moves the second-row seat out of the way. The Explorer offers a spacious cargo area that can fit up to four carry-on suitcases behind the third row and up to 31 bags with both back rows folded flat.
The Explorer's infotainment system is impressive, with an 8.0-inch touchscreen that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Upgrading to one of the most expensive trims gives you access to the optional 10.1-inch vertically oriented screen, voice-activated navigation, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Plus, every model apart from the base Explorer comes with a standard 12-speaker B&O stereo system that provides a high-quality sound experience.
In summary, the 2023 Ford Explorer offers a functional and comfortable cabin with advanced tech features that cater to your needs. The Explorer's spacious cargo area and impressive infotainment system make it a smart choice for drivers who value convenience and entertainment on the road.
2023 Telluride Interior & Tech
The 2023 Kia Telluride boasts a cozy interior with good attention to detail, upgraded materials, and other features. The SX trim takes luxury up a notch with an array of enticing options, such as driver's seat memory settings, a head-up display, heated and ventilated rear seats, a premium headliner, and nappa leather upholstery.
With its cozy cabin, the Telluride can seat up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat or seven with optional chairs. The ample interior storage is also noteworthy, and the vehicle can hold up to four carry-on suitcases behind the third row, and 35 with both back rows flattened.
As for the infotainment system, the Telluride delivers with its 10.3-inch touchscreen that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The vehicle also comes equipped with several power points and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, providing an immersive audio experience. If you opt for the EX and SX trims, you'll also have access to Driver Talk, a feature that amplifies the driver's voice through speakers in the back two rows, enhancing communication with passengers.
Price & Value
The Explorer has a variety of trims with unique features and price points that cater to drivers with varying budgets and preferences. In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride also offers a good range of features and different trims. Let's take a closer look at the different 2023 Telluride and Explorer trims plus features and see how they compare.
2023 Explorer Price & Value
The 2023 Ford Explorer offers a range of trims, each with unique features and price points. The base model starts at $36,760 and includes a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, 10-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive. The XLT trim starts at $38,615 and includes more features, such as a power liftgate, heated front seats, and keyless ignition.
The Limited trim starts at $47,070 and includes more features like leather seats, a hands-free liftgate, and a 360-degree parking camera. The sporty ST trim starts at $49,505 and features a 3.0-liter V6 engine, sport-tuned suspension, and all-wheel drive. The top-of-the-line King Ranch trim starts at $54,130 and includes premium features such as a 14-speaker B&O sound system and a panoramic sunroof.
All trims except for the Timberline, which starts at $47,010, offer rear-wheel drive as standard and four-wheel drive as an optional upgrade for $2,000. With its range of trims and features, the 2023 Ford Explorer offers something for every SUV driver, from the budget-conscious to the luxury-minded.
2023 Telluride Price & Value
The 2023 Kia Telluride trim levels start at around $35,690 for the base models, which includes standard features such as a 10.3-inch touchscreen display and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EX and SX trims get upgraded with more luxurious options, with the EX starting price at $41,290 and adding seats that are heated and ventilated, leather upholstery, and a wireless smartphone charger. The SX trim starts at about $45,490 and provides driver's with seat memory settings, a head-up display, heated and ventilated rear seats, a premium headliner, and nappa leather upholstery. The top-of-the-line SX Prestige X-Pro trim has a price tag of $52,785 and includes a dual sunroof, 20-inch wheels, and an advanced parking assist system.
Why We Think The 2023 Ford Explorer Is The Best Choice
The 2023 Ford Explorer is a full-size SUV that delivers excellent value to SUV buyers. With its powerful engine options, impressive cargo space, and off-road capabilities, the Explorer sets itself apart from the competition.
When deciding between SUVs, it ultimately comes down to personal priorities and preferences. The Ford Explorer offers a perfect number of trims and customizable options, providing buyers with exactly what they need.
Our experts at Dorian Ford are committed to making the decision process stress-free. We encourage you to comes see us for a test drive and to experience why we believe the 2023 Ford Explorer is hands down the best choice.
