The Ford Explorer has a long legacy of excellence that gives it a deserved place near the top of your list if you’re shopping for a three-row hauler this year. This SUV seats up to seven passengers with four full sets of LATCH connectors. With no major changes from the 2020 model year, the Explorer is still available with several turbocharged engine options as well as a fuel-saving hybrid powertrain. Review our favorite family-friendly features of the 2021 version of this iconic midsize SUV.
Advanced Driver Assistance
Every 2021 Ford Explorer comes with the manufacturer’s Co-Pilot360 safety tech package. You’ll have the peace of mind that stems from protecting your family with collision-avoidance features that include:
- Side wind stabilization to prevent rollovers.
- Automatic smart headlights and high beams.
- Rearview camera.
- Lane-keeping assistance.
- Rear cross-traffic alert.
- Blind-spot monitoring.
- Pedestrian detection.
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
If you opt for the higher trim levels of the Explorer, you’ll also benefit from integrated SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link, which helps you plan the best possible route for longer road trips and stay informed during commutes.
Other available safety features of the Explorer include recognition of speed limit signs, lane-centering assistance, active cruise control, post-impact braking to prevent secondary crashes, and evasive steering assist to propel the vehicle in emergencies. This SUV has a five-star crash test rating from the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration.
Well-Appointed Interior Space
The standard third-row makes the 2021 Explorer one of the most generously sized vehicles on the market. It even has a push-button mechanism that moves the second row out of the way for easy access to the back.
Despite the expansive passenger space, you’ll still have room for grocery bags, sports gear, and suitcases. Car and Driver magazine reported fitting four full-size suitcases in the cargo hold and an incredible 31 bags with both rear seats folded flat.
You’ll also find small spaces throughout the vehicle that help keep your cabin organized. With 10 cupholders, everyone in your group will have a designated spot for their beverage of choice.
High-Tech Connectivity
The innovative appeal of the Explorer starts in the cabin, where you’ll have a 10.1-inch touch screen so you can navigate your neighborhood and play your crew’s favorite songs at the tap of a button. Some models also include a digital instrument panel cluster so you can see at a glance when it’s time to stop for gas. Avoid distractions by activating the calm mode, which shows only essential information to keep you focused on the road.
The integrated Wi-Fi can keep up to 10 devices connected while you’re on the go, with seamless smartphone connectivity thanks to Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The tech package rounds out with several USB ports and a six-speaker sound system (though we recommend the upgrade to the premium Bang & Olufsen stereo).
When you test-drive the Ford Explorer, you’ll see why the brand has sold more than 8 million since introducing this model decades ago. The 2021 Explorer more than lives up to the SUV’s reputation for family-friendly adventure.
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