Are Ford Explorers 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder?
Ford Explorers today can be equipped with either a four-cylinder EcoBoost engine or a six-cylinder EcoBoost powerplant, depending on the model year and trim. In short, they can be both, with the base engine typically four-cylinder and higher-performance or premium trims offering six-cylinder options.
The exact configuration varies by generation and market. As of the latest models, Ford primarily offers a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four as the standard engine and a larger 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 as an upgrade on sportier or higher-end trims. There is also a hybrid variant that uses a 3.3-liter V6 paired with an electric motor. Availability depends on the specific year and trim you’re considering, so check the exact powertrain before buying.
Two main engine families in current Explorers
The following breakdown shows the two broad categories you’ll encounter, with the corresponding engine options. This section explains the two lists that follow.
Four-cylinder option
The four-cylinder family represents the everyday-power and efficiency choice in most current Explorers. It’s the base option for most trims and remains the entry point for buyers seeking good fuel economy along with solid daily performance.
- 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4 turbocharged engine — standard on most trims; typically around 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque depending on model year.
In summary, the four-cylinder setup is designed for practicality and efficiency, offering ample power for most driving needs while prioritizing fuel economy.
Six-cylinder options
The six-cylinder family covers higher performance or premium configurations, including sport-oriented models and hybrids in some years. These engines deliver stronger acceleration and, in some cases, greater towing capability.
- 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 — available on higher trims and performance variants (such as the Explorer ST); typically rated in the mid-300s horsepower with torque in the 380–415 lb-ft range, depending on year and tune.
- 3.3-liter Hybrid V6 — used in the Explorer Hybrid; combines a V6 with electric motors for a combined output in the low- to mid-300s horsepower with comparable torque, geared toward enhanced fuel economy rather than just peak power.
Overall, the six-cylinder configurations boost performance and/or efficiency (in the case of hybrids) compared with the base four-cylinder option, and they are primarily found on higher trims or hybrid models.
Summary
In the current lineup, Ford Explorer engines fall into two main cylinder-count categories: a four-cylinder EcoBoost as the standard option and a six-cylinder EcoBoost (plus a hybrid six-cylinder variant) for higher performance or efficiency-focused trims. Exact availability and power figures vary by model year and market, so verify the specific engine configuration for the Explorer you’re considering.
What Ford engine to stay away from?
Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, which had numerous issues like EGR cooler failures and injector problems, and the 5.4L Triton V8 known for spark plug and timing chain problems. Other engines to be cautious of are the 3.8L V6 due to head gasket failures and certain EcoBoost engines, especially early 1.0L and 1.6L models, which have faced issues like premature timing belt wear and overheating.
You can watch this video to learn about some of the worst Ford engines ever made: 59sCar WisdomsYouTube · May 2, 2025
Engines with high failure rates
- 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engines: These engines (2003-2007 and 2008-2010, respectively) are notorious for expensive problems, including head gasket failures, injector issues, and turbocharger failures.
- 5.4L Triton V8: This engine (1997-2010) is infamous for spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser/timing chain issues.
- 3.8L SX V6: From 1982 to 2008, this engine had issues with weak head bolts causing head gasket failures, and early versions were prone to coolant leaks.
This video discusses the 5.4L Triton V8 in detail: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Problematic EcoBoost engines
- 1.0L EcoBoost (early versions): Early models used a rubber timing belt in hot engine oil, which could degrade and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and engine damage.
- 1.6L EcoBoost: This engine has been associated with overheating and coolant leaks.
- 3.5L EcoBoost: Problems can include carbon buildup, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures.
- 2.7L EcoBoost: Early models (around 2016-2017) experienced issues with defective valve guides, excessive oil consumption, and leaking plastic oil pans.
You can watch this video for more information about EcoBoost engine issues: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025
What is the difference between Ford Explorer 2.3 L and 3.0 L?
The main differences are performance and fuel economy: the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is more powerful, with higher horsepower and torque, while the 2.3L EcoBoost I4 offers better fuel efficiency and is typically less expensive. The 2.3L is suitable for most everyday driving needs, whereas the 3.0L is the choice for those prioritizing performance, towing, or a sportier feel.
You can watch this video to compare the performance and fuel economy of the two engines: 58sJB ReviewsYouTube · Sep 13, 2024
| Feature | 2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 300 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque | 400 horsepower, 415 lb-ft of torque |
| Fuel Economy | Better fuel economy | Lower fuel economy, especially with aggressive driving |
| Cost | Lower initial cost | Higher initial cost |
| Best For | Average consumers who need a balanced mix of performance and efficiency | Performance-oriented drivers, frequent towing, or a sportier driving experience |
| Other Considerations | Generally considered reliable. | Might have more premium maintenance. |
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Which should you choose?
- Choose the 2.3L EcoBoost if: You want a good balance of power and efficiency, are looking to save on initial purchase price and fuel costs, and don't need extreme acceleration or heavy towing capacity for daily driving.
- Choose the 3.0L EcoBoost if: You want the highest level of performance, enjoy a more powerful and quick acceleration, plan to do more frequent towing, and are willing to pay more upfront and at the pump.
What Ford Explorers come with V6?
The 2025 Explorer has a standard 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 engine with 300 horsepower on the Active, ST-Line, and Platinum trims. The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 Engine with 400 horsepower is available as an option on the Explorer Platinum and is standard on the ST trim.
Can you get a V6 in a Ford Explorer?
Yes, the Ford Explorer comes with a V6 engine option, which is available in different versions depending on the model year and trim level. Recent models often feature a powerful 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 EcoBoost engine on performance-oriented trims like the ST and Platinum, while older models and some current hybrid versions offer a 3.3L V6 engine.
- Performance V6: The 3.0L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 is the high-performance option available on trims like the ST and Platinum, producing up to 400 horsepower.
- Standard V6: Some model years, particularly the hybrid versions, come with a 3.3L V6 engine, which produces 318 horsepower.
- Engine availability: Engine options vary by model year, with a standard 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder often being the base engine, and the V6 options available on higher trims.
