2017 Ford Explorer XLT

The 2017 Ford Explorer XLT is a three-row midsize SUV designed to balance family practicality with everyday drivability. It is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available from the factory for improved traction in adverse conditions.

Exterior and chassis
- Clean, SUV-focused styling with body-colored trim and roof rails for added cargo-carrying flexibility.
- Alloy wheels (factory standard size on XLT) and available fog lamps to improve visibility in poor conditions.
- Power-operated rear liftgate is available as a factory option; the standard liftgate provides wide access to the cargo area.
- Built-in towing capability when equipped with the factory tow package (hitch and wiring), enabling light- to medium-duty towing tasks.

Interior and seating
- Three-row seating for up to seven occupants (configuration may vary with optional second-row captain’s chairs).
- Versatile cargo and seating arrangements: split-folding second row and fold-flat third row to expand cargo volume as needed.
- Durable cloth upholstery as the standard seating material on XLT, with available upgrades to leather on higher-optioned vehicles.
- Driver-oriented cockpit with a tilt-and-telescoping steering column and steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls.
- Power windows and door locks, remote keyless entry, and ample interior storage including a center console and door bins.

Climate and convenience
- Automatic climate control with well-distributed vents for first-, second- and third-row passengers; dual- or tri-zone systems are available depending on options.
- Multiple 12-volt outlets and USB/auxiliary input points for device charging and connectivity.
- Power-adjustable driver seat and supportive front seating for extended drives.

Infotainment and connectivity
- Ford SYNC infotainment system providing voice control for phone and media functions.
- Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming for wireless connectivity.
- AM/FM radio with a multi-speaker audio system; USB and auxiliary inputs are standard. Satellite radio and navigation are available as factory options.
- Steering-wheel controls for audio and phone functions for simplified, eyes-forward operation.

Safety and driver assistance
- Full complement of airbags including front airbags, front side airbags, and roof-mounted side-curtain airbags protecting all three rows.
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control and traction control are standard to help maintain vehicle control under varied conditions.
- LATCH anchors for child-seat installation and a tire-pressure monitoring system are included.
- Rearview camera is offered from the factory and may be standard on many XLT-equipped examples; additional driver-assist features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available in option packages.

Mechanical and performance
- 3.5L V6 naturally aspirated engine delivering 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque for responsive acceleration and highway passing.
- 6-speed automatic transmission tuned for smooth shifts and everyday usability.
- Available AWD improves grip in rain, snow, or light off-pavement conditions; suspension tuned for a balance of ride comfort and composed handling.

Overall
The 2017 Explorer XLT is positioned as a practical, well-equipped midsize SUV with a proven V6 powertrain, flexible interior packaging, and a set of factory features that cover connectivity, comfort and core safety. Factory option packages can add convenience and advanced driver-assistance features for buyers who want a higher level of equipment.