2021 Ford Explorer Configurations

Between available trim levels, drivetrains, engines, and packages, there are countless possible 2021 Ford Explorer configurations.
Written by Talullah Blanco
Reviewed by Shannon Martin
Between available trim levels, drivetrains, engines, and package upgrades, there are endless possible 2021 Ford Explorer configurations, costing between $32,925 and $54,330 MSRP. 
If you’re looking for a relatively affordable SUV equipped with all the tech and safety features, third-row seating, and plenty of trunk space to boot, the 2021 Ford Explorer is the SUV for you. 
However, finding the Ford Explorer that checks all your boxes means comparing the possible configurations of trim levels, powertrain options, and package upgrades for the 2021 Ford Explorer. In this article, we’ll cover some of the most popular available Explorer configurations and help you decide which one to choose.
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2021 Ford Explorer configurations

There’s a lot to consider when picking out a 2021 Ford Explorer, including trim level, powertrain, and package upgrades
The powertrain is comprised of the drivetrain and engine. All 2021 Ford Explorer trim levels come standard with rear-wheel drive (RWD) with available four-wheel drive (4WD) and three engine options. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost is standard for most trim levels, but 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 is available as a single or twin turbocharged engine and comes standard on higher trim levels. There’s also a 3.3-liter hybrid engine available for the Limited and Platinum trims. 
Speaking of trim levels, check out the nine trim levels in the 2021 Ford Explorer lineup below:
  • Base
  • XLT
  • Limited
  • Timberline
  • ST
  • Limited Hybrid
  • Platinum
  • King Ranch
  • Platinum Hybrid
Last but certainly not least are available package upgrades. No matter your lifestyle needs, the Explorer has a package for you:
  • Co-Pilot360+: adds four driver-assistive technology features to the standard CoPilot260 package
  • XLT Sport Appearance: adds luxury sport finishes and styling
  • Trailer Tow: adds towing equipment and increases hauling capacity
  • Premium Technology: adds multi-contour front seats, a Bang & Olufsen 980-watt sound system with 14 speakers, and a 10.1-inch LCD touchscreen 
When you put all those trim levels, powertrain options, and package upgrades together, there are 216 possible configurations for the 2021 Ford Explorer. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular. 

Ford Explorer Base with RWD

Starting price: $32,925
What’s great about the most entry-level Explorer configuration are all the features that come as standard. Even without 4WD or package upgrades, you’ll get the following:
  • Keyless entry
  • Synch 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility 
  • FordPass Connect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Voice-activated dual-zone automatic air conditioning
  • Co-Pilot360 driver assistance tech suite

Ford Explorer XLT with Co-Pilot 360 Assist+

Starting price: $35,075
Sitting just above the base trim the
Ford Explorer XLT
is just $2,150 more but offers more features and access to optional upgrades, including a heated steering wheel, remote start system, and the Co-Pilot Assist+ package. 
The package comes with additional practical assist technologies and has a five-year prepaid SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link subscription
MORE: Ford Explorer XLT towing capacity
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Ford Explorer XLT with Sport Appearance

Starting price: $35,075
Unlike the Co-Pilot 360 Assist+ package, the Sport Appearance package is all about style. It’s all in the impressive details, such as:
  • Carbonized gray-painted grille bars and mesh insert, 
  • Liftgate applique
  • Dual-chrome exhaust tips, 
  • Carbonized gray Explorer badge, 
  • Exclusive branded front floor mats
  • Seats with contrast stitching
Not to mention the 10-spoke carbonized gray painted 20-inch wheels and enhanced performance tires!

Ford Explorer Limited with RWD

Starting price: $45,255
The
Ford Explorer Limited
trim with the base configuration comes equipped with most of the XLT’s optional equipment as well as a more luxurious interior and premium features, such as:
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel and upholstery
  • Heated and ventilated front seats
  • 360-degree camera
  • 12-speaker B&O audio system with a wireless charging pad
Even though the mid-level Limited trim is $12,330 more than the base, the added cost opens the doors to higher-end features and optional upgrades, including the 3.3-liter hybrid powertrain.

Ford Explorer Limited with Hybrid Equipment 

Starting price: $45,255
Swapping out the standard 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine for the 3.3-liter hybrid powertrain will boost your fuel economy to an EPA-estimated 27 city mpg and 28 highway mpg for an additional $4,850. Don’t worry, there’s more!
Opting for the Hybrid Equipment Group 310A will also get you the following:
  • High-series brakes
  • Third-row PowerFold seating
  • Power and heated glass
  • Pedestrian Altern sounder
  • 20” aluminum wheels
  • 18-gallon fuel tank, and more on top of the 3.3-liter hybrid powertrain

Ford Explorer ST with Street Pack

Starting price: $49,000
If you’re a sports car enthusiast at heart but need a roomier and more versatile SUV, the Explorer ST trim with Street Pack is the perfect configuration for you. 
The 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 with 400 horsepower and 4WD comes standard on the ST, along with sport suspension, a sport-style steering wheel, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Class III trailer tow package is also standard on the ST, increasing the max towing capacity to 5,600 pounds
Adding the Street Pack to the base ST will be an additional $995, but you’ll get 21” aluminum wheels (a 1” increase!), red-painted brake calibers, as well as performance front and rear brakes

Ford Explorer ST with Premium Technology

Starting price: $49,000
Adding the Premium Technology package to the sporty trim elevates the
Explorer ST
to the same class as some luxury European performance SUVs but at a relatively accessible price point. 
MORE: Car tech gift guide

Ford Explorer Timberline with Co-Pilot360 Assist+ 

Starting price: $46,015
The all new Timberline was added to the Explorer lineup in 2021 as the off-road-ready beast. The Timberline has an updated outdoorsy styling with blacked-out head and tail lamps, a black Ford oval logo, high-gloss painted wheels, and exclusive Forged Green exterior paint. 
Along with aesthetics, the Timberline comes with off-road features such as:
  • LED foglamps
  • Prewired electrical harness
  • Orange front tow hooks
  • C-pillars on the rear hatch
  • All-terrain tires
Also, it comes standard with 4WD and the Class III Towing Package for next level hauling. 
We recommend adding the Co-Pilot360 Assist Package for added driver assistive technologies that will increase your safety while adventuring, including voice-activated navigation, intelligent adaptive cruise control, speed limit sign recognition, evasive steering assist, and 
active park assist 2.0.

Ford Explorer King Ranch with 4WD

Starting price: $52,600
Rear-wheel drive is standard for the newly added King Ranch, but for an extra $2,000 you can upgrade to 4WD, which will be a better match for the twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine that comes standard. 

Ford Explorer Platinum with Premium Technology

Starting price: $52,730
As the highest trim level available in the Explorer lineup, there’s a lot that comes standard with the
Explorer Platinum
with Premium, including: 
  • Single turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine
  • 4WD
  • Non-limited slip rear axle 
  • Chrome exhaust tips
  • 21-inch wheels, 
  • Genuine wood accents 
  • Tri-diamond partner with contrast stitching on leather upholstered seats
  • Co-Pilot 360 Assist+ 
  • Class III Towing packages 
  • Available moon roof
And that’s just a sneak peek into what you’ll get with the Platinum! If you decide to get the Platinum Explorer, you might as well opt for the Premium Technology Package while you’re at it. For $1,295 you’ll get an 10.1” LCD touchscreen infotainment system and a 14-speaker 980 watt audio system
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