
2021 Ford Explorer Trim Levels Compared
Beautifully crafted and delivering awe-inspiring performance, the 2021 Ford Explorer will help you get the most out of every trip, no matter how long or short. If this mid-size SUV has caught your eye, the next step is deciding which Explorer trim level is best suited to your lifestyle. To help you decide, the Paul Heuring Ford team has taken a closer look at each option in the following 2021 Explorer model comparison.
You can continue reading about this SUV on our Explorer review page, or head to our Explorer inventory to see what's available at our dealership in Hobart, IN. We also recommend taking advantage of our Explorer lease and finance offers to lock in a great monthly rate. Ready to take the next steps? Get in touch with a Paul Heuring Ford representative online or at (877) 411-5014.


2021 Ford ExplorerBase
The base 2021 Explorer kicks off the trim lineup with ample seating, a commanding engine, and numerous driver assist features to back you up while behind the wheel. Features found in the initial Explorer include:
Key Features:
- 2.3L EcoBoost® four-cylinder engine producing 300 HP and 21 city / 28 hwy MPG
- Standard RWD or available Intelligent 4WD
- LED headlamps and tail lamps
- Auto high-beam headlamps
- Power liftgate
- Eight-way power driver's seat
- 35/30/35 split-folding second row
- Rotary gear shift dial
- Tri-zone automatic temperature control
- Six-speaker audio system
- SYNC® 3 infotainment system with 8-in. touchscreen display
- SiriusXM® Satellite Radio
- 4.2-in. LCD productivity screen
- Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert
- Lane-keeping system
- Rear view camera
- Reverse sensing system
Expand Key Features

2021 Ford ExplorerXLT
Those looking for more interior comfort may be drawn towards the 2021 Explorer XLT. In addition to most features found in the base trim, the XLT adds:
Key Features:
- LED signature lighting
- Heated sideview mirrors with security approach lamps
- Heated front seats
- Ten-way driver's and four-way front passenger's power front seats
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Push-button start
- Second-row captain's chairs
- 6.5-in. LCD productivity screen
- Available twin-panel moonroof
Expand Key Features

2021 Ford ExplorerLimited
From stylish refinements to dynamic safety and tech features, the 2021 Ford Explorer Limited boasts upgrades to every part of the SUV. Features include most XLT offerings, as well as:
Key Features:
- Power-folding, heated sideview mirrors with autofold, LED turn signal indicators, and security approach lamps
- Hands-free foot-activated liftgate
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated second-row outboard seats
- Heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Ambient interior lighting
- Driver memory settings
- 12-speaker B&O® sound system
- Remote start system
- Voice-activated touchscreen navigation system
- Intelligent adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering, and speed sign recognition
- 360-degree camera with split-view display
- Forward sensing system
Expand Key Features

2021 Ford ExplorerST
Boasting a sporty engine configuration and features to match, the 2021 Ford Explorer ST is ready for any adventure. In addition to most Limited features, the ST is equipped with:
Key Features:
- Enhanced 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine producing and 400 HP and 18 city / 24 hwy MPG
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Standard Intelligent 4WD
- Terrain Management System™
- Sport-style steering wheel with paddle shifters
- 12.3-in. digital instrument cluster
- Active Park Assist 2.0
- Reverse brake assist
Expand Key Features

2021 Ford ExplorerPlatinum
The 2021 Ford Explorer Platinum improves upon previous trims with useful exterior and interior features, preparing you for anything life has in store. The top-of-the-line Explorer trim adds:
Key Features:
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine producing 365 HP and 18 city / 24 hwy MPG
- Adaptive headlamps
- Driver-side auto-dimming sideview mirrors
- Cargo area management system with cargo net, rear cargo well protector, and reversible load floor
Expand Key Features
Ford Explorer Packages Available
Add some personal touches to your new SUV with the available 2021 Explorer feature packages. We've highlighted several popular Explorer packages in the following table:
Class III Trailer Tow Package
- Class III trailer hitch receiver
- 7- and 4-pin wiring harness
- BLIS with trailer coverage
Premium Technology Package
- Multicontour front seats with Active Motion®
- 10.1-in. portrait touchscreen
- 14-speaker B&O sound system
XLT Equipment Group
- ActiveX™ seating material
- Eight-way power front passenger's seat
- Heated steering wheel
- Silver-painted front and rear skid plate elements
- LED fog lamps
- Remote start system
XLT Sport Appearance Group
- 20-in. Carbonized Gray-painted ten-spoke wheels
- EXPLORER hood lettering
- Carbonized Gray-painted grille
- Chrome dual exhaust tips
- Unique instrument panel and door panel inserts
ST Street Pack
- 21-in. aluminum wheels
- Red-painted performance brake calipers
- Performance brakes
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