Hey guys! Ever wondered what makes the Ford Explorer ST stand out in the crowded SUV market? Well, buckle up, because we're about to dive deep into what makes this sport utility 4-door a real head-turner. From its powerful performance to its sleek design and tech-packed interior, the Explorer ST is designed to impress. This article will be your go-to guide, breaking down everything you need to know about the Ford Explorer ST, from its engine specs to its available features and what to expect when you're looking to purchase one. Let's get started and explore what sets this beast apart. The Ford Explorer ST has quickly become a favorite for those looking for a blend of performance and practicality. We will cover the engine, its features, and the driving experience it offers. So, whether you are already an owner, or just curious about what the hype is all about, then you will enjoy this ride. So, let’s begin this journey.

Performance and Engine Specs

Alright, first things first, let's talk about the heart of the beast: the engine. The Ford Explorer ST boasts a 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine, a twin-turbocharged powerhouse that pumps out some serious numbers. We’re talking about around 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smooth and responsive shifts. The result? A thrilling driving experience. The ST can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.2 seconds, which is pretty impressive for a mid-size SUV. And the all-wheel-drive system ensures that power is distributed efficiently, giving you excellent handling and control in various driving conditions. Seriously, guys, this thing moves! Its performance isn't just about straight-line speed; the Explorer ST also offers enhanced handling thanks to its sport-tuned suspension and performance brakes. So, whether you are cruising on the highway or navigating city streets, you'll feel confident and in command. It is also important to note that the Explorer ST offers different drive modes. These modes can adjust the engine's performance, transmission, and steering to suit different driving situations. These modes will help you to have a personalized experience. The inclusion of paddle shifters gives you even more control, allowing you to manually shift gears for a more engaging driving experience. This feature is a game-changer for those who appreciate the thrill of driving and want to feel fully connected to their vehicle. This vehicle has a powerful engine and a performance-tuned chassis. It provides drivers with a blend of power, agility, and control. When you hit the gas pedal, you will feel a rush.

EcoBoost Engine and Driving Dynamics

The 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine isn't just about raw power. Ford has engineered it to deliver a balanced performance that combines power and efficiency. The twin-turbocharging setup ensures that you get instant torque, which means quick acceleration from a standstill and responsive power when you need it. Driving the Explorer ST is a blast. The sport-tuned suspension keeps the vehicle planted on the road, while the precise steering provides a great feel and feedback. The all-wheel-drive system further enhances the driving experience by optimizing traction and stability, especially in less-than-ideal conditions. The transmission is also worth mentioning. The 10-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive. It also helps to maximize the engine's power band, making sure that you always have access to the power you need when you need it. The Explorer ST feels agile and composed, even when cornering. This is what sets it apart from many other SUVs in its class. In the Explorer ST, Ford has created a vehicle that is fun to drive. It is also practical and comfortable. This combination makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a sporty SUV. It is also important to consider the fuel economy. It is not the most efficient SUV out there, but considering its performance, it offers a decent balance between power and fuel efficiency. Ford's engineering team has optimized the engine for a good balance of performance and fuel economy. The Explorer ST is a well-rounded vehicle that offers a great driving experience. It’s perfect for those who want a vehicle that’s both practical and fun to drive. The vehicle is a good choice for those who want a sporty SUV with plenty of power.

Interior and Features

Now, let's peek inside. The Ford Explorer ST isn't just about what's under the hood; the interior is just as impressive. You will find that the interior is packed with features and designed with both comfort and convenience in mind. It has premium materials, such as leather-trimmed seats and a sporty, well-appointed dashboard. The front seats are especially comfortable, with excellent support and bolstering to keep you in place during spirited driving. The ST also offers a range of high-tech features, like a large touchscreen infotainment system that controls everything from navigation to entertainment. The latest version of Ford's SYNC system provides a user-friendly interface. It also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows seamless integration with your smartphone. You can easily access your favorite apps, make calls, and play music. The Explorer ST is equipped with a premium audio system, providing an immersive listening experience. So, whether you are a music lover or just enjoy a clear and crisp sound, you will definitely appreciate it.

Tech and Comfort Features

The interior of the Explorer ST is a blend of sportiness and luxury. The ST trim offers unique design elements, like red stitching and ST badging. This enhances the sporty feel and sets it apart from other Explorer trims. You will also find a digital instrument cluster that provides important driving information. It is also customizable to your preferences. The SUV has plenty of room for passengers and cargo. It's a great choice for families. It offers comfortable seating for up to seven passengers. There’s ample legroom and headroom in all three rows. The cargo space is also generous, making it easy to accommodate luggage, groceries, or any other gear. The Explorer ST includes advanced driver-assist features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features enhance safety and make long drives more relaxing. The SUV also offers a host of other convenience features, like a hands-free liftgate. The driver will love the remote start and heated front seats. Ford has really packed this thing with features. The Explorer ST aims to provide a premium driving experience, and it definitely delivers. It is a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and technology. It’s ideal for daily commutes, weekend getaways, and everything in between. The interior is designed to enhance your driving experience, whether you are behind the wheel or simply enjoying the ride. Ford has created a cabin that's both sporty and luxurious. You are guaranteed to enjoy the ride.

Design and Exterior

Alright, let's talk about the outside! The Ford Explorer ST boasts a muscular and athletic exterior design. It has a distinctive front grille, blacked-out trim elements, and sporty accents. This gives it a more aggressive and dynamic appearance compared to other Explorer trims. The ST’s design clearly signals its performance-oriented nature. The Explorer ST features a sleek and modern design. It also includes LED headlights and taillights. These not only enhance the vehicle's aesthetic appeal but also improve visibility. The large alloy wheels add to the sporty look and improve handling. The overall design of the Explorer ST is both functional and stylish, making a bold statement on the road. The Explorer ST is designed to grab your attention. This SUV has a presence on the road. The blacked-out trim elements, including the grille, window surrounds, and badging, contribute to its sporty appearance. The ST trim also features unique badging. This is a subtle yet significant detail that highlights the vehicle’s performance capabilities. The Explorer ST also has a dual exhaust system. This is a clear indicator of its power.

Exterior Styling and Features

The Ford Explorer ST is designed to look good. But it is also designed to be functional. Its design is more than just aesthetics; it also enhances aerodynamics and performance. The Explorer ST's exterior is packed with features that improve both style and functionality. It has LED headlights and taillights. These features not only look great but also provide excellent visibility. The large alloy wheels and performance tires enhance handling and grip. The ST has a rear spoiler and a black-painted roof. These features add a touch of sportiness. The Explorer ST also comes with a hands-free liftgate. This feature adds convenience. The exterior of the Explorer ST is a carefully crafted combination of style, performance, and functionality. It's designed to make a statement and provide a great driving experience. It’s perfect for those who want a vehicle that looks as good as it performs. The ST trim's exterior features make it stand out from the crowd. It is a fantastic SUV.

Driving Experience

So, what's it like to actually drive the Ford Explorer ST? In a word: thrilling. The combination of the powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and responsive steering makes for a fun and engaging experience. The ST handles corners with confidence, and the all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip in various conditions. You'll feel the power when you hit the gas pedal. The acceleration is quick and responsive. The 10-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently. This keeps you in the optimal power band. The Explorer ST is not just about speed. It also offers a comfortable ride. The suspension is firm enough to provide sporty handling. However, it is compliant enough to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road. You can enjoy long drives. The seats are supportive. The cabin is quiet and well-insulated. Ford has done an excellent job of creating a vehicle that's both fun to drive and comfortable for daily use. The driving experience is enhanced by the various drive modes. These modes allow you to customize the vehicle's performance to suit your driving style and the road conditions.

Road Performance and Handling

The Ford Explorer ST delivers a driving experience that’s both engaging and refined. The sport-tuned suspension provides excellent handling and control. You can feel confident when cornering. The all-wheel-drive system is always working. It’s providing optimal traction and stability. This is particularly noticeable in wet or snowy conditions. The Explorer ST provides a surefooted feel. The powerful engine and responsive transmission make for effortless acceleration and quick passing maneuvers. You can easily merge onto highways and navigate through traffic. The steering is precise and provides good feedback. You are always in control. The driving experience is further enhanced by the available driver-assist features. Features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist make long drives more relaxing. The Explorer ST offers a great balance of performance and comfort. It's an SUV that you can truly enjoy driving. It is not just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about enjoying the journey. You'll feel the thrill.

Safety and Reliability

Safety is a top priority, and the Ford Explorer ST comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. The SUV comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes features like pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping system, and blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert. These features help to prevent accidents and protect occupants. The Explorer ST also has a high-strength steel frame and a variety of airbags. These features provide a strong level of protection in the event of a collision. Ford has a good reputation for reliability. The Explorer ST is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle. Ford has made several improvements in recent years to enhance the reliability of its vehicles. However, it's always a good idea to check out reliability ratings from reputable sources before making a purchase. The Explorer ST provides excellent peace of mind. Ford is committed to safety.

Safety Features and Ratings

The Ford Explorer ST is equipped with a wide range of safety features. This ensures that you and your passengers are protected. Ford Co-Pilot360 is a suite of advanced driver-assist technologies. This includes features like pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, which can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes. The lane-keeping system helps to prevent unintentional lane departures. The blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert warns you of vehicles in your blind spots or approaching from the sides. The Explorer ST also includes features like adaptive cruise control. This feature automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. The SUV has a sturdy construction. It is designed to provide excellent protection in the event of a collision. The Explorer ST has received high safety ratings from leading organizations. This further reinforces its safety credentials. The combination of advanced safety features and robust construction makes the Explorer ST a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals. Ford takes safety seriously. You can be confident that you and your passengers will be well-protected on the road.

Fuel Efficiency and Practicality

While the Ford Explorer ST is a performance-oriented SUV, it also offers a decent level of practicality. The fuel economy is not the best in its class, but it's reasonable for a vehicle with such a powerful engine. You can expect to get around 18-21 MPG in the city and 24-26 MPG on the highway. This may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. The Explorer ST offers a spacious and versatile interior. It can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers. The cargo area is also generous, making it easy to haul luggage, groceries, or other items. The Explorer ST is a great choice for families and anyone who needs a vehicle that can handle a variety of tasks. The ST is a practical vehicle. It is a good choice for those who want a sporty SUV with plenty of performance. Ford has engineered this vehicle with a great balance of power and practicality.

Fuel Economy and Utility

The Ford Explorer ST offers a blend of performance and practicality. It provides an efficient driving experience. The fuel economy is a key consideration for many buyers. The Explorer ST delivers a good balance between power and fuel efficiency. It is important to note that fuel economy can vary. The EPA estimates give you a good starting point. The Explorer ST offers a spacious and versatile interior. It is capable of handling the demands of daily life. The SUV provides ample room for passengers and cargo. It is suitable for both family trips and everyday errands. The seats can be easily folded. This will maximize the cargo space. The Explorer ST's combination of performance, practicality, and fuel economy makes it a versatile choice. It is suitable for a wide range of drivers. It is a good choice if you are looking for a performance-oriented SUV that can handle all your needs. You can be confident that the Explorer ST can handle any situation. Ford makes an excellent choice for those who need a versatile vehicle.

Conclusion: Is the Ford Explorer ST Right for You?

So, is the Ford Explorer ST the right SUV for you? If you are looking for a sporty, high-performing SUV that offers a comfortable interior, plenty of tech features, and a head-turning design, then the answer is likely yes. The Explorer ST delivers a thrilling driving experience. It provides a spacious and practical interior. It is equipped with advanced safety features. It's a great choice for those who want the best of both worlds. However, if fuel economy is your top priority, or if you don't need the extra power and performance, you might want to consider other trims of the Explorer or other SUVs in the same class. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Explorer ST is right for you is to take it for a test drive. You can experience the performance, comfort, and features firsthand. But if you value performance, practicality, and a touch of luxury, the Ford Explorer ST is a great option to consider. It is worth your time to check it out. It is a great SUV.