2023 Ford Explorer vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The main difference between the Limited and Platinum trims of the Ford Explorer is that the Limited comes in at a lower price with the 2.3 Liter inline four engine, while the Platinum is the top tier trim with a 3.3 L V6 hybrid engine. The Limited price starts right around $48,000, and is one of the few trims where the hybrid engine is optional, the Platinum trim starts at around $55,000 and is the only trim where the hybrid engine comes standard. The Platinum trim also features improved seating materials with perforated leather seats and has an available equipment package that provides drivers with the larger infotainment screens we have become accustomed to. The Limited trim does still have heated leather seats, the main difference again is just that lower tier engine, and there is no available package for an upgraded infotainment area.

The 2023 Explorer continues to be the powerhouse of SUVs, and Ford has not made many improvements to the midsize SUV. This is a relatively calm year for the intrepid Explorer. So the 2022 is just as viable and usually can be found at a slightly lower price. However unchanged the Explorer might be, it still delivers on every facet of what makes this SUV great. With a competitive hybrid engine, the Explorer competes against the popular Toyota Rav-4 and KIA Telluride. To do this Ford recently added a hybrid powertrain to the lineup. Ford also likely has an electric Explorer in the works, but due to the popularity of the Mustang Mach-e production has not begun.

The most luxurious Ford Explorer for either 2022 or 2023 is tied between the Platinum and the King Ranch, both offer incredible luxury but with a couple of differences. The Platinum trim offers similar perforated leather seats to the King Ranch, which is the higher priced trim, and the King Ranch comes with all of the features, minus one, available on the Platinum trim. Since the Platinum trim is the only trim in which the hybrid engine comes standard, it is also the only trim in which a larger than normal infotainment screen is available. However, even though the King Ranch might not have the available option of the larger infotainment screen, it comes with a more stylish interior and more upscale designs. If you want a more modern, technologically focused Explorer, the Platinum trim is the one for you, if you want a more old school style, with class, and flair, the King Ranch is the trim for you.