2024 Ford Explorer Release Date: Everything You Need To Know

in Model Info and Features
Silver 2024 Ford Explorer

Ford Explorer by Alexander Migl — CC BY-SA 4.0

The Ford Explorer is a well-liked SUV that stands out for its ability to comfortably fit people and cargo, a hallmark of its design for over thirty years. Known for being Ford’s first four-door SUV, it has maintained its popularity, offering a dependable and practical choice for everyday use and adventures (hence the name) alike.

If you’re in the market for a new midsize SUV, the 2024 Ford Explorer might just tickle your fancy. The Explorer is known for its potent engines, impressive fuel economy, and standard driver-assist features. If Ford can keep this up with the Explorer, there’s plenty of reason to be excited for its 2024 iteration.

For today’s post, we discuss the 2024 Ford Explorer release date and other essential information buyers like you should know.

When is the 2024 Ford Explorer Release Date?

As of this writing, the manufacturer has yet to announce the official release date for the 2024 Ford Explorer. However, the production is expected to start in January at the Chicago Assembly plant.

This usually means that the release to consumers will follow a few months after, possibly in early to mid-2024. The exact release date may vary depending on production factors and regional availability. Hence, it is advisable to check with local dealerships or official Ford announcements for the most accurate and specific release information.

We’ll update this post once we learn more about the Explorer’s release date. In the meantime, Ford has allowed customers to place orders for the upcoming 2024 Explorer based on their preferred specifications.

What’s New With the 2024 Ford Explorer?

Ford enthusiasts have been giddy about the possibility of a design refresh for the 2024 Explorer. However, we soon learned that they were in for a disappointment since the design makeover was pushed for the 2025 model year of the Explorer. For the 2024 version, the Explorer will carry over from last year with zero styling changes.

The 2024 Explorer is still part of the sixth generation of the midsize SUV, introduced in 2020. Another disappointing news is that Ford has discontinued the hybrid powertrain for the 2024 Explorer. As such, if you’re looking for a redesigned Explorer, you’ll have to watch for the 2025 version.

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What to Expect From the 2024 Ford Explorer?

Now that you know about the 2024 Ford Explorer release date, what are some good things you can expect from this popular midsize SUV?

Engine, Transmission, and Fuel Economy

The 2024 Ford Explorer’s engine lineup includes a 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine, standard on several models, producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, emphasizing a balance between power and efficiency. The more potent 3.0L EcoBoost V6, available on higher trims, offers 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, catering to those seeking higher performance. These engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth shifting and optimized power delivery.

For efficiency, the 2024 Explorer offers different fuel economy figures based on the engine and drivetrain configurations. The RWD model with the 2.3L engine achieves an estimated 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the AWD version gets around 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. Lastly, the 3.0L V6 engine version in RWD format has an estimated fuel economy of 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 2024 Ford Explorer’s interior focuses on providing ample space and versatility, making it convenient and comfortable for passengers. It can accommodate up to seven individuals and offers significant headroom and legroom for occupants in both the front and second rows. The headroom is almost the same for both rows, and the legroom is spacious throughout. In fact, the rear legroom measures 39 inches.

The Explorer also provides ample cargo space, with 18.2 cu-ft when all seats are occupied, and this area can be increased to 87.8 cu-ft by folding down the second and third rows.

Tech-wise, the Explorer has a large touchscreen interface equipped with SYNC technology, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto™, facilitating easy connectivity and navigation through vehicle settings. For those seeking an upgraded audio experience, a Bang & Olufsen sound system with 14 speakers is available, which should please even the most jaded audiophiles.

FORD EXPLORER TOP SPEED: HOW FAST IS IT?

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?

Safety Features and Ratings

The 2024 Ford Explorer is equipped with a range of safety features designed to protect passengers and enhance driver confidence.

Standard Safety Features:

  • Ford Co-Pilot360: This suite of advanced driver-assist technologies includes Auto High-Beam Headlamps, a Rear View Camera, a Lane-Keeping System, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, and a Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert.
  • Rear View Camera: Provides a clear view behind the vehicle, aiding in safer backing up and parking.
  • Lane-Keeping System: Alerts and assists drivers in maintaining lane position.
  • Automatic Emergency Braking: This helps prevent collisions or reduce their severity by automatically applying the brakes if an imminent collision is detected.

Optional Safety Features:

  • Active Park Assist 2.0: Simplifies the parking process by automatically steering the vehicle into a parking spot.
  • Post-Collision Braking: Helps reduce the impact of a potential secondary collision by automatically applying moderate brake pressure when an initial collision is detected.
  • Reverse Brake Assist: Automatically applies the brakes if an obstacle is detected behind the vehicle while reversing.
  • 360-degree Camera: Offers a comprehensive view of the vehicle, aiding in maneuvering in tight spaces.

For safety ratings, the 2024 Explorer received the “Top Safety Pick+” award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) by scoring mostly “Good” on various crashworthiness tests. 

FORD EXPLORER PROS & CONS

If you’re interested in the Explorer, it’s critical to look at all aspects before buying. You might wonder - what are some prominent Ford Explorer pros and cons?

Will the 2024 Ford Explorer Be Worth the Wait?

The 2024 Ford Explorer is expected to be a reliable and versatile SUV that is worth waiting for. It is known for offering ample space, comfort, advanced technology features, and strong engine options. Although it will not offer a complete redesign, it will provide continuity in quality and innovation that many have come to expect from the Explorer lineup. Despite the lack of a design refresh, the 2024 Ford Explorer release date is worth the excitement.

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