The 2023 Ford Explorer is about to receive a mid-cycle refresh. Those are the latest reports about the Blue Oval company’s mid-size SUV, which has been one of the class leaders for a very long time. The current generation has been around for just a couple of years but Ford wants to keep it highly competitive. That’s why we are about to see some changes for the next year. At this point, the officials are still quiet, so take the following paragraphs with a little reserve.
This update would bring all kinds of updates. Of course, the first thing that comes to mind is the styling. We would see some aesthetical revisions but if we consider that one of the weakest points of the current model is its interior quality, it makes sense to see changes in this aspect as well. Finally, there’s always a possibility to see a new powertrain option on the offer, especially the plug-in hybrid version, which is currently offered in Europe.
The 2023 Ford Explorer release date will be scheduled for the second half of the year.
2023 Ford Explorer Design
Design-wise, the 2023 Ford Explorer will retain the same overall layout. The current generation has been around for just a couple of years and it rides on the company’s newer-generation CD6 platform, the same one that underpins the Mustang. So, the Explorer is once again an RWD SUV, which is a rare thing these days on the market.
On the other hand, this mid-cycle update would be a typical facelift. We would expect to see all kinds of styling changes, especially at the front. This would refer to parts like a new grille, new bumper, headlights etc. The rest of the vehicle probably won’t get such massive changes, though we could see some updates on the rear end, as well as things like new color options, new wheels etc.
Interior
We’ve just mentioned that interior design is one of the biggest drawbacks of the current model. Simply, the overall interior quality is subpar when compared with most models in the class. So, the 2023 Ford Explorer would have to bring finer materials and a more attractive dashboard design in order to be more competitive. This would also include new tech features, such as a bigger infotainment screen, standard digital instrument cluster and similar things.
On the other hand, the overall cabin design is about to remain the same. This three-row crossover accommodates up to seven passengers. The first two rows are spacious and comfortable, while the third row is also quite functional. The cargo area is good for about 18.2 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet behind the second, and 87.8 cubic feet of the overall cargo volume. Those are pretty much average numbers for a mid-size SUV.
Features
We are pretty sure that the 2023 Ford Explorer facelift will also bring novelties in terms of new standard and available features. One of the first things that come to mind is a new infotainment screen. That could easily be the same 15.5-inch unit that debuted in the updated Expedition. If this happens, we presume that the currently available 10.1-inch unit would become standard, or there’s room for the standard 12.0-inch screen as well?
Of course, this wouldn’t be the only upgrade to come. We presume that the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster could also become part of the standard equipment. Furthermore, we expect more in terms of connectivity features, as well as more safety features. Still, keep in mind that base models already come standard with goodies like a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams and more.
2023 Ford Explorer Engines
Under the hood, we have no doubt that base 2023 Ford Explorer models will carry on with a 2.3-liter turbo-four, which puts out around 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, which is enough to ensure pretty decent driving dynamics. Of course, the optional 3.0-liter twin-turbo will remain available too, with the max output of 400 horsepower. The same thing goes for the hybrid version, which is based on a 3.3-liter V6 and delivers a total output of 318 horsepower. All three units come in pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
One of the possible novelties for the next year is the addition of a plug-in hybrid to the lineup. Currently, this version is available in Europe, with a combined output of 450 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque.
2023 Ford Explorer Release Date and Price
We expect that the updated model will hit the market sometime in the second half of the year. When it comes to the 2023 Ford Explorer price, base models should go around 35.000 dollars. Models like Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota Highlander and Chevy Traverse will remain key competitors.
