How does the 2024 Ford Explorer rank?

The 2024 Ford Explorer generally ranks in the middle of the midsize SUV class across major ranking guides. It isn’t the top pick, but it offers strong value, ample interior space, and a range of powertrain options that keep it competitive.

This article examines where the Explorer stands in 2024-2025 rankings, the factors reviewers point to, and how it stacks up against key rivals such as the Toyota Grand Highlander, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Honda Pilot, and Jeep Grand Cherokee L.

Ranking snapshot from major guides

The following list summarizes how several well-known automotive ranking sources position the 2024 Explorer within the midsize SUV segment. Rankings can vary by methodology, trim level, and tested criteria, but the Explorer is consistently placed in the middle of the field.

• U.S. News & World Report typically places the Explorer in the middle tier of the midsize SUV class, praising interior space and powertrain options while noting ride refinement and tech quality lag behind segment leaders.


• Car and Driver generally ranks the Explorer as a solid mid-pack option, highlighting practicality and value but acknowledging that some rivals outperform it in ride comfort and interior design.


• Kelley Blue Book regards the Explorer as a strong family value with competitive pricing and depreciation, though it often sits mid-pack among peers on overall desirability and features.


• Edmunds’ assessments place the Explorer as a reasonable recommendation within the segment, especially for families, while pointing out areas where rival crossovers offer more refined kits or updated tech.

Overall, the Explorer’s standing across these guides reflects its balance of space, versatility, and powertrain options, tempered by trade-offs in ride quality and interior refinement compared with class leaders.

What drives its ranking

Several core elements shape how reviewers score the Explorer. The following lists highlight the main factors and how they contribute to its mid-pack positioning.

Performance, powertrains, and capability

Rankings take into account engine options, acceleration, and towing capability, as well as how well the vehicle handles daily driving and longer trips.

• Multiple powertrain choices, including a gas EcoBoost engine and a hybrid option, provide versatility for different buyer needs.


• Ride and handling are generally comfortable for passengers but can lag behind the smoothness and refinement of top rivals.


• Tow capability remains competitive within the segment, appealing to families and campers who need to haul gear.


• Fuel economy improves with the hybrid option, helping overall economics relative to all-gas rivals.

These performance-related factors help explain why the Explorer remains a solid mid-range pick, especially for buyers prioritizing space and practicality over the highest refinement.

Interior space, features, and value

Interior design, seating flexibility, technology, and price are central to how well the Explorer stacks up against competitors.

• Roomy seating for up to seven, with configurable cargo and versatile second-row access, enhances everyday usability.


• Infotainment and driver-assistance features are strong in higher trims, though some lower trims may feel dated compared with segment leaders.


• Pricing is generally competitive for the segment, offering good value for families who need space and practical features.


• Resale value and ownership costs are solid, contributing to its overall appeal as a family vehicle.

Interior space and value are consistently cited as Explorer strengths, helping offset some weaknesses in tech or ride comfort when compared to the best-in-class rivals.

Summary and outlook

In 2024-2025 rankings, the Ford Explorer remains a dependable, value-oriented choice in the midsize SUV segment. Its standout traits are interior practicality, a broad powertrain lineup, and strong family-oriented features. Its ranking is less favorable relative to the very top-liners on ride refinement, newest technology, and some interior finishes. For buyers prioritizing space and versatility at a reasonable price, the Explorer is a compelling option worth test-driving against rivals like the Grand Highlander, Telluride, Palisade, Pilot, and Grand Cherokee L.

Summary

The 2024 Ford Explorer sits squarely in the mid-tier of its class across major automotive rankings. It earns praise for spacious, adaptable interiors and a variety of powertrains, including a hybrid option, but trails the leaders in ride refinement and the latest tech. For shoppers seeking a versatile family SUV with strong value, the Explorer remains a competitive choice within the midsize segment.

Is the Ford Explorer 2024 reliable?

The 2024 Ford Explorer has a predicted reliability score of 82/100 from J.D. Power, which is considered "Great" and is a significant improvement from some previous model years. While it has received a 5-star safety rating from the NHTSA and has a "great" predicted reliability score, it's important to note that some older models of the Explorer had known issues, especially with transmissions. However, the current generation has addressed many of these past problems. 
Key points on reliability

• J.D. Power rating: The 2024 model received a "Great" predicted reliability score of 82 out of 100. 
• Safety: It earned a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). 
• Warranty: The basic warranty is 3 years or 36,000 miles, and the powertrain warranty is 5 years or 60,000 miles. 
• Recalls: There have been 5 recalls for the 2024 model year. 
• Overall assessment: While the current generation has improved significantly, some older models of the Explorer have had well-documented issues with transmissions and other components. 

Potential concerns to be aware of

• Past reliability issues: Some older models had problems with transmissions, engines, and electrical systems. 
• Model year consistency: The reliability of the Ford Explorer can vary significantly from one model year to the next. 
• Known issues in some models: Some models have experienced transmission problems, such as delayed shifting or slipping gears. 
• Electrical glitches: Some users have reported electrical issues in certain models, including problems with the infotainment system. 

What this means for buyers

• The 2024 Ford Explorer is expected to be a reliable vehicle, with the current generation having addressed many of the issues that plagued older models. 
• Despite its improved reliability, some past issues with transmissions have been noted in previous generations. 
• When purchasing a used model, it's crucial to check its specific model year and maintenance history to ensure it falls within the more reliable years. 
• If buying new, a new vehicle purchase is less likely to encounter problems associated with older models. 

Where does the Ford Explorer rank?

The Ford Explorer receives high ratings for safety and performance, including a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS. However, consumer reviews on reliability are mixed, with some owners reporting issues while others are satisfied. Performance is generally praised, especially in sportier trims, while some critics note that the engine stop-start system can be annoying. 
Safety ratings

• NHTSA: 5-Star overall safety rating. 
• IIHS: Top Safety Pick+ for the 2025 model year, with a "Good" rating in all crash tests. 
• Standard features: Includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. 

Performance and driving experience

• Performance: Praised for having good acceleration and handling, especially in the performance-oriented ST version.
• Traction: The all-wheel drive version offers excellent traction on winding roads.
• Braking: Braking performance is generally good, though the auto-hold function can feel a little grabby in town.
• Engine stop-start: Some drivers find the engine's auto stop-start system annoying because it takes a moment to restart.
• Ride quality: The ride is generally smooth for daily driving, though it can feel firm with the stiffer suspension. 

Reliability and consumer reviews

• Mixed reviews: Consumer reviews are mixed, with some owners reporting reliability issues such as transmission problems and electrical glitches, while many others are happy with their vehicles. 
• J.D. Power: Some models have received "Great" reliability ratings from J.D. Power in the past, but current consumer satisfaction is more mixed. 

Interior and technology

• Interior: Critics generally praise the interior design and features, with a "Great" rating for the interior quality on some models. 
• Infotainment: The infotainment system receives mixed reviews, but most standard safety and driver-assist features are well-regarded. 
• Cargo: The cargo and storage space receives a good rating from some sources. 

What are the disadvantages of the Ford Explorer?

Common cons for the Ford Explorer include transmission issues, potential for exhaust fumes in the cabin, inconsistent reliability across model years, and a stiff ride. Other potential drawbacks are a relatively cramped third row for adults, fuel economy that can be lower than expected, and expensive repairs related to transmission or engine problems in certain model years. Some owners have also reported problems with interior electronics and body parts.
 
This video discusses common problems with the 5th generation Ford Explorer: 1:001A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Feb 3, 2023
Mechanical and reliability issues

• Transmission problems: A frequent and significant complaint across many model years, including rough shifting, delayed engagement, and leaks. Some years, like 2002-2006, are particularly known for transmission failures. 
• Engine and exhaust issues: Some models have experienced engine troubles like coolant leaks and turbocharger failures, with some owners reporting exhaust fumes entering the cabin. 
• Mixed reliability: The Explorer has an inconsistent reliability record, with some model years scoring poorly while others do well. This makes predicting the ownership experience difficult without checking a specific year. 
• Higher maintenance costs: Some sources indicate that while the Explorer may break down less than average overall, maintenance costs can be higher than other vehicles in its class. 

Design and comfort issues

• Stiff and noisy ride: Some model years are criticized for a stiff ride and a noisy engine. 
• Cramped third row: The third-row seating can feel cramped for adults. 
• Interior quality: Some reports mention issues with interior fit and finish, such as panel misalignments or premature wear. 

Electrical and other problems

• Infotainment system: The Ford's infotainment system can be prone to glitches, freezes, and inconsistencies.
• Electrical systems: Beyond the infotainment system, owners have reported problems with other electrical components like sensors, power locks, and interior lighting.
• Other issues: Other potential problems include rear wiper issues and faulty latches. 

You can watch this video to see an expert's opinion on the comfort and ride quality of the 2025 Ford Explorer: 1mThe Car Care Nut ReviewsYouTube · Mar 9, 2025

How does the 2024 Explorer compare to the 2023?

The 2023 and 2024 Explorer SUVs are identical, but the trim levels have subtle differences in exterior features.