Ford Explorer: Top Alternatives for 2023/2023
Aaron Turpen is an automotive writer and reviewer living in Wyoming, USA. A life-long off-road and mechanical enthusiast, Aaron has had a varied career in vehicles. Aaron grew up with home mechanics and maintenance on tractors, trucks, and cars as well as small engines and devices. At any one time, he’s worked as an automotive disassembler (aka “junk yard parts puller”), shade tree mechanic, over-the-road truck driver, and more. Aaron’s interests include family-oriented vehicles, off-roading, and anything fun involving tires and steering. With most of his life having been in rural America, Aaron understands pickup trucks and SUVs, winter weather hazards, and what life is like where phrases like “Just down the road” mean “within 100 miles.” Aaron’s automotive writing career has included outlets such as Carfax, CarTalk, NewAtlas.com, and many others. He’s appeared on NPR’s All Things Considered, on various YouTube channels, and on several podcasts.
The Ford Explorer is a popular midsize, three-row sport utility with a long history on the market.
As times have changed, so has the Explorer, always keeping with consumer trends and remaining popular. The current-generation Ford Explorer debuted in 2021 to mark the sixth generation for the SUV.
Known for style, spaciousness, and capability, the Explorer is a top seller in the utility market.
Table of Contents
Ford Explorer Weaknesses
The new Explorer does have its downsides. The new, smaller, turbocharged engine doesn’t deliver significantly improved fuel economy, and the 10-speed transmission can be rough. Stiffness on the road and low-reliability expectations also count against the Ford Explorer.
Ford Explorer vs. Competitors
| Model | Max Cargo Volume | Passenger Volume | Reliability Rating* | Safety Scores** |
| Ford Explorer | ||||
| Kia Telluride | ||||
| Chevrolet Traverse | ||||
| Mazda CX-9 | ||||
| Toyota Highlander | ||||
| Honda Pilot |
* Combination of reliability metrics from Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and RepairPal.
** TSP is the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s “Top Safety Pick” and TSP+ is “Top Safety Pick Plus” awards. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ratings are 1-5 stars.
1. Kia Telluride
Compared to the Explorer, the new Kia Telluride has a larger passenger space and better reliability rating.
The Telluride has topped the list of family SUV choices since its debut in 2020.
It offers a plush ride quality, spacious interior, high-end technology and safety features, and a value-oriented pricing structure. The Telluride is the current benchmark for three-row crossovers.
Current Kia Telluride Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Kia | Telluride |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Kia deals and average prices paid.
2. Chevrolet Traverse
The Traverse is another top pick amongst reviewers for family three-row crossovers.
This generation of the Traverse debuted in 2018 and quickly became a favorite, creating a benchmark that was only eclipsed with the Telluride later.
Generous passenger room, excellent infotainment and technology, and a solid road presence are high marks for this SUV.
Current Chevrolet Traverse Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Chevrolet | Traverse | $1,250 | 1.90% | 5/31/23 | |
| 2023 | Chevrolet | Traverse | $1,250 | 1.90% | $369/month for 36 months, $3,689 due at signing | 5/31/23 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Chevy deals and average prices paid.
3. Mazda CX-9
As one of the oldest options on our list here, in terms of its design, the CX-9 nevertheless remains a top choice thanks to its robust drive quality and premium level accommodation.
It has a small third row and less cargo room than the others here, but it’s also smaller in footprint overall and one of the best-equipped options for the money spent.
Current Mazda CX-9 Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Mazda | CX-9 | ||||
| 2023 | Mazda | CX-9 | 0.00% | $390/month for 36 months, $3,999 due at signing | 5/31/23 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Mazda deals and average prices paid.
4. Toyota Highlander
Completely redesigned in 2020, the Toyota Highlander has long been a mainstay in the three-row family market.
It’s known for comfort and quality as well as holding a reputation for reliability.
The Highlander has a hybrid option for those with a fuel economy focus, but a smaller third row and cargo area than the Explorer.
Current Toyota Highlander Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Toyota | Highlander | ||||
| 2023 | Toyota | Highlander | 3.49% | $359/month for 36 months, $3,999 due at signing | 5/31/23 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Toyota deals and average prices paid.
5. Honda Pilot
Another relatively old design, the Pilot, introduced in this generation in 2016, still holds a top spot thanks to its roomy interior and excellent ride quality.
Fuel economy in the Honda Pilot is high and storage and ergonomics are the best of any on our list. The third row is restricted for access, but cargo is easy to use thanks to a square rear opening.
Current Honda Pilot Deals & Incentives
| Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Honda | Pilot | ||||
| 2023 | Honda | Pilot | 3.90% | $489/month for 36 months, $4,799 due at signing | 7/5/23 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Honda deals and average prices paid.
