| Pros | Cons | What's New |
|---|---|---|
Two powertrain options to choose from | Cramped rear seating | 18-inch wheels are standard with the base trim |
Excellent acceleration from the V6 engine | Tacky plastic quality in some places | Revised standard and optional features |
Advanced safety features | Poor cargo capacity | New exterior color options |
$32,700
price290 hp @ 6500 rpm
horsepower255 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm
torque6-Speed Shiftable Automatic
transmission3.5L 6cyl AWD 6A
engine-
basic warrantyThere's no doubt the 2015 Ford Explorer is a superb family SUV with a stunning interior and tons of features. The Ford Explorer has not gone through any drastic changes for the 2015 model year. It gets some changes in the standard features lists with the base trim and has also added a few options.
If you are considering buying the 2015 Ford Explorer, we recommend the XLT trim level. As one of the most cost-effective trims on this model, it offers the best combination of comfort and infotainment features. Moreover, the price of this trim is around $33,000, which is $3k more expensive than the base model, however, the features provided are remarkably good. This trim also offers a lot of optional packages to change its appearance and upgrade its technology and comfort features.
Additionally, the Ford Explorer offers two powertrain options and two drivetrain options, which makes it easy for buyers to choose the right one. Furthermore, its crash test rating and safety technology are both outstanding in this class. In the $30,700 price range, it competes with the likes of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Dodge Durango, and the Honda Pilot.
Within the FWD trim levels, three trims are available: Base, XLT, and Limited. In addition, there is a Sport trim that is available on the AWD trim level. All trims are offered with either Front Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive options except for the Sport trim, which is available only with All-Wheel Drive. Regarding features, the base model has plenty of them, which is pretty much sufficient considering the price and use case. From the XLT trim up, the interior, infotainment, and comfort features are upgraded quite a bit.
The Explorer features blind spot information, SYNC voice recognition, in-vehicle connectivity, a 6-way power passenger seat with manual lumbar, 3.5L V6 engine, heated bucket seats, etc. The Sport trim, on the other hand, comes standard with a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine. The Sport and Limited trim levels also possess a luxurious appearance and superior comfort.
|
Trim |
Base |
XLT |
Limited |
Sport |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MSRP (FWD) |
$30,700 |
$33,000 |
$38,200 |
N/A |
|
MSRP (AWD) |
$32,700 |
$35,000 |
$40,200 |
$43,100 |
|
Key Features |
18-inch alloy wheels |
Adds to the Base |
Adds to XLT |
Adds to Limited |
|
Automatic headlights |
Upgraded brakes |
20-inch wheels |
Different 20-inch wheels |
|
|
Rear privacy glass |
The keyless entry code pad |
Keyless ignition and entry |
Sport-tuned suspension |
|
|
Six-way power driver seat |
Ford’s Sync Infotainment Interface |
Power-adjustable pedal |
Front sport seats |
|
|
2 USB ports |
4.2" color LCD configurable display |
Remote trunk release |
Post-Collision Safety System |
We Recommend
If you are considering buying the 2015 Ford Explorer, we recommend the XLT trim level. As one of the most cost-effective trims on this model, it offers the best combination of comfort and infotainment features. Moreover, the price of this trim is around $33,000, which is $3k more expensive than the base model, however, the features provided are remarkably good. This trim also offers a lot of optional packages to change its appearance and upgrade its technology and comfort features.
The 2015 Ford Explorer comes standard with a 3.5L V6 engine and doesn't differ in any respect from previous models. There is, however, an option for an EcoBoost Inline-4 2.0L engine on all trims. The Sport trim, the top-of-the-line trim, on the other hand, has a 3.5L EcoBoost engine as standard. Every trim is equipped with a 6-speed SelectShift Automatic as standard. This SUV's transmission operates smoothly, and the overall handling feels controlled.
As far as visibility, it can also be described as average with nothing to complain about. Despite its standard FWD drivetrain, all Explorer trims are available with an AWD option for a little more price than the regular MSRP. The Sport trim, on the other hand, only comes with AWD. The Ford Explorer also accelerates well, almost as much as Jeep Grand Cherokee, which is the fastest car in its class.
|
Models |
2015 Ford Explorer |
2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee |
2015 Dodge Durango |
2015 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MSRP |
$30,700 |
$29,995 |
$30.495 |
$29,870 |
|
Engine |
3.5L V6 |
3.6L V6 |
3.6L V6 |
3.5L V6 |
|
Drivetrain |
FWD |
AWD |
AWD |
FWD |
|
Transmission |
6-speed automatic |
8-speed automatic |
8-speed automatic |
5-speed automatic |
|
Power |
290 hp @ 6,500 RPM |
290 hp @ 6,400 RPM |
290 hp @ 6,400 RPM |
250 hp @ 5,700 RPM |
|
Torque |
255 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM |
260 lb-ft @ 4,800 RPM |
260 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM |
253 lb-ft @ 4,800 RPM |
|
0-60 MPH (seconds) |
7.0 |
6.9 |
7.2 |
7.5 |
|
Quarter-Mile (seconds) |
15.1 |
15.4 |
15.9 |
15.2 |
Explorer has very good acceleration, and it is very close to Jeep Cherokee which is the fastest SUV in the competition in the 0 to 60 mph run. It outperforms the other two competitors with a slight margin in terms of acceleration. However, the power figure remains identical to the Dodge Durango. 2015 Honda Pilot has the least powerful engine in the competition and it is also the slowest SUV in the competition in outright acceleration.
For the Explorer's fuel economy, it can go pretty far per gallon in this category, which is comparatively the best in its class. On the highways, it can run for 28 miles per gallon while in the city it can reach 20 miles per gallon. The 2015 Ford Explorer offers the highest combined fuel economy of any SUV in the competition, rated at 24 miles per gallon. The only thing that does not go in favor of Explorer is its small gas tank that can only hold 18 gallons of gas. Compared to Explorer, all the rivals have bigger tanks, which give them a greater amount of overall fuel range.
|
Models |
2015 Ford Explorer |
2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee |
2015 Dodge Durango |
2015 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
MPG (City) |
20 |
19 |
19 |
18 |
|
MPG (Highway) |
28 |
26 |
27 |
25 |
|
MPG (Combined) |
24 |
22 |
23 |
21 |
|
Fuel Tank Capacity (Gallons) |
18.6 |
24.6 |
24.6 |
21 |
|
Range (City/Highway/Combined; miles) |
372/521/446 |
467/640/541 |
467/664/566 |
378/525/441 |
The Explorer outperforms all of its rivals in terms of fuel economy figures, making it one of the best options for budget-conscious people. However, the smallest tank in the segment takes away from the feeling, and it also offers the least range on the highway. It means you will need more frequent stops on the highways during long journeys.
In the interior of the 2015 Ford Explorer, you'll find high-quality materials on the seats, steering wheels, and other areas where you often touch the car. With the driver-friendly design, you can operate the controls without spending a lot of time or attention on them. Although the cabin space is adequate, the rear seats are cramped and certain adults may have difficulty adjusting comfortably.
Additionally, the cabin is very well insulated, so there are no outside sounds. Particularly for the XLT trim, the seating support and adjustments are pretty good. On the other hand, the top trims, which are the Sport and Limited trim, have a very sophisticated interior compared to the base model. Apart from that, some packages can change the accent of the interior as well as add more features, which is a must if you are willing to spare the extra cash. The Explorer's cargo space is 21 cubic feet, which is not the biggest in its class, and its competitors have an edge over Explorer in this department.
|
Models |
2015 Ford Explorer |
2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee |
2015 Dodge Durango |
2015 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Seating Capacity |
7 |
5 |
7 |
8 |
|
Front Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Legroom; inches) |
41.4/61.3/40.6 |
39.9/58.7/40.3 |
39.9/58.5/40.3 |
40/61.5/41.4 |
|
Second Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Legroom; inches) |
40.5/61/39.8 |
39.2/58.0/38.6 |
39.8/58.3/38.6 |
39.8/62.2/38.5 |
|
Cargo Capacity (cubic feet) |
21.0 |
36.3 |
17.2 |
18 |
While the Explorer offers impressive front space, the Honda Pilot has better legroom for the driver and front passenger. Though it does have less legroom in the rear, it still outperforms its rivals in this class. With 36.3 cubic feet of standard cargo space, the Jeep Cherokee dominates the cargo section here. Some of the standout interior features are as follows:
Generally, you won't get many entertainment features with the Explorer as standard. There is an 8.0-inch Multi-Function Display Screen, 6 speakers, a Trip Computer, a Remote trunk release, USB ports, etc. Moreover, it contains Bluetooth, navigation, and Ford's MyFord Touch infotainment system.
The XLT trim comes standard with the Equipment Group 201A, which includes Ford Sync with voice functionality, a 4.2-inch color LCD configurable display, and an SD card reader. For more infotainment features along with comfort and convenience, you can choose the Equipment Group 301A, which costs approximately $3,000 but adds a lot more entertaining features. Some of the highlights of the infotainment system are as follows:
The looks of the 2015 Ford Explorer are enough to convey that this SUV is primarily meant for city and highway driving for families. The curves on this model are not as sporty as you might expect. Despite this, the looks will be appealing to any prospective family buyer. Three new exterior color options are also available this year. The only bad thing about its exterior is its relatively large size, which makes it a little hard to maneuver around crowded areas. Among the exterior features of this vehicle are 19.0-inch wheels, a power liftgate, privacy glass, and roof rails.
|
Models |
2015 Ford Explorer |
2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee |
2015 Dodge Durango |
2015 Honda Pilot |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Curb Weight (lbs) |
4,432 |
4,545 |
4,713 |
4,299 |
|
Length (inches) |
197.1 |
189.8 |
201.2 |
191.4 |
|
Width (inches) |
78.9 |
76.5 |
75.8 |
78.5 |
|
Height (inches) |
70.4 |
69.3 |
70.9 |
70.7 |
|
Ground Clearance (inches) |
7.6 |
8.6 |
8.1 |
8 |
|
Wheelbase (inches) |
112.6 |
114.8 |
119.8 |
109.2 |
The 2015 Dodge Durango is the longest SUV in the competition and that shows up in the wheelbase too. The Ford Explorer is the second-longest SUV but it falls behind the Jeep Grand Cherokee which is the shortest car in the competition in terms of the wheelbase. The Explorer also offers the least ground clearance in the competition. Some of the standout exterior features are as follows:
The Ford Explorer has received the highest possible crash test ratings based on IIHS and NHTSA tests. According to the NHTSA, the cabin is strong and safe, along with it being rated a perfect 5-star. Due to its hi-tech safety features such as a Terrain Management System, Blind Spot Information, hill-start, and descent control, etc.
The IIHS gave it an overall ‘Good’ rating and a “Top Safety Pick” award. However, the only class where the Explorer performed average is the small-overlap front side, where the IIHS gave it a ‘Marginal’ rating. Some of the standout safety features are as follows:
For families looking for a comfortable SUV with a solid cabin that features premium materials, the Ford Explorer makes a great choice. In the Explorer, the cabin is very spacious, except for the rear seats, which are lacking in legroom. However, Explorer's competitors offer even less legroom, so despite having a tight fit for its legs, this vehicle easily wins over its competitors.
Car Name | 0-60 MPH | Quarter Mile | Top Speed | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Ford Explorer Ranked #8 | 7.4 sec | 15.8 sec | 135 mph | |||
2015 BMW X5 Ranked #1 | 6.2 sec | - | - | |||
2015 Land Rover Range Rover Ranked #2 | 6.3 sec | 14.6 sec | 131 mph | |||
2015 Acura MDX Ranked #3 | 6.5 sec | 15 sec | 113 mph | |||
2015 Lincoln MKX Ranked #3 | 6.5 sec | 15.1 sec | - | |||
2015 Hyundai Santa Fe Ranked #3 | 6.5 sec | - | - |
Car Name | MPG City | MPG Highway | MPG Combined | Fuel Tank Capacity | Range (C/H) | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Ford Explorer Ranked #8 | 17 mpg | 24 mpg | 20 mpg | 18.6 gal. | 316.2/446.4 mi. | |||
2015 Subaru Outback Ranked #1 | 25 mpg | 33 mpg | 28 mpg | 18.5 gal. | 455/600.6 mi. | |||
2015 Nissan Rogue Ranked #1 | 26 mpg | 33 mpg | 28 mpg | 14.5 gal. | 377/478.5 mi. | |||
2015 GMC Terrain Ranked #2 | 22 mpg | 32 mpg | 26 mpg | 18 gal. | 396/576 mi. | |||
2015 Chevrolet Equinox Ranked #2 | 22 mpg | 32 mpg | 26 mpg | 18.8 gal. | 413.6/601.6 mi. | |||
2015 Ford Escape Ranked #3 | 22 mpg | 31 mpg | 25 mpg | 15.1 gal. | 341/480.5 mi. |
Car Name | Length | Width | Height | Ground Clearance | Wheelbase | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Ford Explorer Ranked #10 | 197.1 in. | 78.9 in. | 70.4 in. | 7.6 in. | 112.6 in. | |||
2015 Nissan Armada Ranked #1 | 207.7 in. | 79.3 in. | 77.2 in. | 9.8 in. | 123.2 in. | |||
2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Ranked #2 | 204 in. | 80.5 in. | 74.4 in. | 7.9 in. | 116 in. | |||
2015 GMC Yukon Ranked #3 | 203.9 in. | 80.5 in. | 74.4 in. | 8 in. | 116 in. | |||
2015 Chevrolet Traverse Ranked #4 | 203.7 in. | 78.5 in. | 69.9 in. | 7.2 in. | 118.9 in. | |||
2015 Buick Enclave Ranked #5 | 201.9 in. | 79 in. | 70.3 in. | 7.6 in. | 118.9 in. |
Car Name | Trunk Capacity | Passenger Volume | Max Trunk Volume | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Ford Explorer Ranked #6 | 21 cu.ft. | 151.7 cu.ft. | 80.7 cu.ft. | |||
2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Ranked #1 | 15.3 cu.ft. | 55.6 cu.ft. | 94.7 cu.ft. | |||
2015 Lincoln MKX Ranked #2 | 32.3 cu.ft. | 108.4 cu.ft. | 68.6 cu.ft. | |||
2015 Toyota 4Runner Ranked #3 | 47.2 cu.ft. | - | 89.7 cu.ft. | |||
2015 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Ranked #4 | 27.7 cu.ft. | - | 62.2 cu.ft. | |||
2015 Toyota Highlander Ranked #5 | 13.8 cu.ft. | 145 cu.ft. | 83.7 cu.ft. |
Car Name | Cargo Volume | Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area | Max Cargo Volume | Bed Length | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Ford Explorer Ranked #1 | 83.1 cu.ft. | 21 cu.ft. | 80.7 cu.ft. | - | |||
2015 Volkswagen Touareg Ranked #2 | 64 cu.ft. | 32.1 cu.ft. | 64 cu.ft. | - | |||
2015 Nissan Pathfinder Ranked #3 | 79.8 cu.ft. | 16 cu.ft. | 79.8 cu.ft. | 98 ft. | |||
2015 Toyota 4Runner Ranked #4 | 89.7 cu.ft. | 47.2 cu.ft. | 89.7 cu.ft. | - | |||
2015 Chevrolet Equinox Ranked #5 | 61.3 cu.ft. | 31.5 cu.ft. | 63.7 cu.ft. | - | |||
2015 Jeep Cherokee Ranked #6 | 74 cu.ft. | 24.8 cu.ft. | 54.9 cu.ft. | - | Jeep USA |
Car Name | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity | Weight | Source | Compare | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2015 Ford Explorer Ranked #7 | 5000 lbs. | 1728 lbs. | 4432 lbs. | |||
2015 GMC Yukon Ranked #1 | 8500 lbs. | 1792 lbs. | 5308 lbs. | |||
2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Ranked #1 | 8500 lbs. | 1752 lbs. | 5308 lbs. | |||
2015 Nissan Armada Ranked #2 | 8200 lbs. | 1833 lbs. | 5372 lbs. | |||
2015 Volkswagen Touareg Ranked #3 | 7716 lbs. | 1239 lbs. | 4696 lbs. | |||
2015 Land Rover Range Rover Ranked #3 | 7716 lbs. | 2029 lbs. | 4918 lbs. |
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POPULAR TAGS
User Overall Rating
Posted On: July 13, 2024
2015 Ford Explorer V-6 Limited. Has Leather seats, power everything, dual sunroof. Power rear seats fold down flat for cargo. Factory Sony stereo infotainment, has enough power to keep up with traffic and can tow most things. The appointments are done really well, the construction was done well and even with high mileage the engine still runs great without issue. You do sit up in this taller than...
User Overall Rating
Posted On: July 23, 2024
It's a good vehicle for the family and you can bring the friends as well. The gas mileage is good and the seats are comfortable. The engine has a lot of pick up and go. Third row seating is great. There is good leg room in the front and rear seats.
User Overall Rating
Posted On: June 30, 2024
After many issues and in and out of the shop we are going to let the car go back to the place we financed from due to them not taking accountability for the horrible car they sold us. $5000 in repairs and still many things wrong with it. I could've bought a brand new car at the rate we're having to pay for This.
