Is the 2015 Ford Explorer XLT front or rear-wheel-drive?
The 2015 Ford Explorer XLT is available with rear-wheel drive as standard, with an optional all-wheel-drive system; there is no factory front-wheel-drive configuration for this model year and trim. This article explains how the drivetrain options for the XLT worked in 2015 and what they mean for buyers and owners.
In the 2015 Explorer lineup, Ford offered two primary drivetrain configurations for the XLT: rear-wheel drive (RWD) as the base option and Intelligent 4WD (Ford’s all-wheel-drive system) as an available upgrade. The choice between these setups affects traction, handling, and efficiency depending on weather and road conditions.
Drivetrain configurations for the 2015 Explorer XLT
The following options describe how the XLT could be equipped in 2015 and what to look for when evaluating a vehicle.
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): The default configuration for many 2015 Explorer XLT models. Power is delivered to the rear wheels, which generally yields better fuel economy and simpler maintenance in dry conditions.
- Intelligent 4WD (All-Wheel Drive): An optional system that continuously monitors traction and can transfer torque to the front wheels as needed for grip in rain, snow, or slippery surfaces. This is Ford’s AWD option for the Explorer in 2015.
Both configurations share the same unibody platform and engine options, but the AWD setup adds traction management features and can impact fuel economy and maintenance costs compared with RWD.
Why the drivetrain choice matters
Choosing between RWD and AWD affects handling, acceleration, and capability in adverse weather. RWD tends to be more fuel-efficient and straightforward, while AWD provides enhanced traction when conditions are less favorable. For the XLT, Ford offered AWD as an option, making most 2015 Explorers either RWD or AWD rather than Front-Wheel Drive, which was not offered for this model/year.
Summary
In the 2015 Ford Explorer XLT lineup, the drivetrain is not front-wheel drive. Buyers could choose rear-wheel drive as standard or opt for Intelligent 4WD (all-wheel drive). The exact configuration depends on how the vehicle was equipped at the factory or by the dealer.
