2015 Ford Explorer Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

in Car Comparisons
Silver 2015 Ford Explorer

Source: Flickr

The Ford Explorer is a classic SUV offering three rows of seating. It’s an excellent competitor to popular choices like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot. Those looking to invest in the car might be interested in a used version, such as the 2015 model. If that’s the case, you might wonder - what are some significant 2015 Ford Explorer pros and cons?

Before purchasing any vehicle, it’s always a good idea to jot down the benefits and disadvantages. This information will reveal if it’s worth it to purchase a car and reveal what to expect during ownership. Read on to learn about a few things we love in the 2015 Ford Explorer and items we aren’t fans of in the design.

What We Love: 2015 Ford Explorer Pros

From comfort to its extensive standard features, there’s much to love in the 2015 Ford Explorer pros and cons. Let’s go over the best of this machine first.

Three Engine Options

First, we love that there are three engine selections to choose from if you’re interested in the 2015 Ford Explorer. Usually, drivers get one or two - this version of the SUV takes it to the next level with three selections. You can get a 3.5L V-6, turbocharged 2.0L, or a turbocharged V-6 engine. The first comes standard, and the two after are upgrades.

The first engine offers a 6-speed transmission system and a maximum of 290 horsepower. The second brings 240 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, and the third goes further. All provide standard front-wheel drive with an available all-wheel drive upgrade for more traction.


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Comfortable and Quiet

The 2015 Ford Explorer is comfortable and quiet, which is a great combination for drivers and passengers. Other vehicles similar to the Ford Explorer tend to have vibration issues, which can make the experience loud and uncomfortable for everyone inside. This trouble isn’t the case with the 2015 Ford Explorer.

No matter where you sit in this machine, you’ll notice a smooth experience from start to finish. If pushing over uneven portions of the pavement, there is a lack of choppiness and abrupt bumps. It provides noise-dampening features and an excitingly effective suspension system. It’s a top contender on the market for comfort and quietness in the SUV universe. 

Excellent Towing Abilities

Owners of the 2015 Ford Explorer will find it is capable of towing a significant amount, which makes it an excellent choice for family camping trips and big moves across the country. If you invest in the version of the vehicle with the V-6 engine, you will find yourself behind the wheel of a monster that can handle up to 5,000 pounds.

Of course, this number doesn’t compare to trucks that can handle more than 10,000 pounds on their rear. However, it’s a solid option for those who want an SUV and some towing capabilities in their machine. Your family will thank you if you need to lug around additional equipment.  


FORD EXPLORER TOP SPEED

It might be an efficient mover for those who need to cart loved ones back and forth - but how quickly can it move on the highway? What is the Ford Explorer top speed you can anticipate?


Extensive Standard Features

Finally, we enjoy the long list of standard features available for the driver in the 2015 Ford Explorer. The base model has ear privacy glass, automatic headlights, split-folding middle and third-row seats, and plenty of room to move things inside. The driver’s seat has a 6-way power system.

If you upgrade to the XLT trim, you’ll get a keyless entry touchpad, parking sensors, and a steering wheel wrapped in fashionable and comfortable leather. Those who don’t mind paying a little more can go with the Equipment Group 201 A Package or the Sport package for driving and comfort additions.

What We Hate: 2015 Ford Explorer Cons

Unfortunately, there were also some items we found less appealing in the list of 2015 Ford Explorer pros and cons. Let’s cover some of our least favorite items next.

Minimal Visibility 

One of the issues we had with the 2015 Ford Explorer was an unfortunate lack of visibility for the driver. The front of the vehicle has large pillars on the windows, which makes it easy for there to be significant blind spots for the driver. In some cases, this trouble can be dangerous.

Of course, the position of every driver is different, and the window design and column placement will impact every person differently. We recommend testing your view before putting down any money on the 2015 Ford Explorer.

Lacking Cargo Hold

You would think that a car with towing capabilities and comfort like the 2015 Ford Explorer would offer decent room for cargo in the rear. Unfortunately, that isn’t the case. It seems like it would be roomy, but you only get a maximum of 80 cubic feet in the back once all the seats are folded down.

This number is okay but falls behind the rest of the competition. Most offer more and thus will outpace the 2015 Ford Explorer in what they can carry for long road trips, sports competitions, and everything in between.


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Necessary Learning Curve

Driving the 2015 Explorer necessitates a significant learning curve. It’s a large vehicle, so it might take some time for those who aren’t used to being behind the wheel of a mammoth to adjust to the control of this magnificent machine. The turn radius can be a struggle.

Those who constantly need to be on city streets or in busy traffic might find it especially tricky to adjust to what the 2015 Ford Explorer offers. Take your time and be careful if this territory is new to you.

Final Thoughts

There’s much to consider in the 2015 Ford Explorer pros and cons. The machine has three engine selections, comfort, excellent towing abilities, and a long list of standard features. Unfortunately, it also brings minimal visibility, a lack of cargo hold, and a necessary learning curve not everyone will appreciate. 

We hope this information was helpful! The more you know about a vehicle, the easier to determine if it’s the best choice for your life. This Explorer might be perfect for some and a terrible selection for others.



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