What is the difference between an Explorer XLT and ST?

The Explorer XLT is the midrange, comfort-focused trim with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the Explorer ST is the performance-oriented variant with a more powerful turbo V6 and sport-focused tuning.

Both trims share the same family-friendly chassis and three-row layout, but they diverge in power, handling, styling, and pricing. This article examines engine options, performance, features, styling, and cost to help you decide which trim fits your needs as of the 2024–2025 model years.

Power and performance

Overview of the core mechanical differences, including engine choices and how they translate to everyday driving and excitement on the road.

• Engine and output: XLT typically uses a 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder delivering around 300 horsepower and about 310 lb-ft of torque; ST uses a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 with roughly 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Figures can vary by model year and market, so check the latest specs for your build.


• Drivetrain: XLT can be ordered with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive; ST comes with all-wheel drive as a standard setup, plus performance-oriented tuning.


• Transmission: Both trims use Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, tuned for the respective powertrains.


• Acceleration and feel: ST is noticeably quicker off the line and generally more responsive in corners; XLT emphasizes smoothness and efficiency with capable daily driving dynamics.


• Drive modes: ST includes sport-focused driving modes that sharpen throttle response and shifts; XLT offers Normal and Sport modes with fewer dedicated performance presets.

Conclusion: The ST delivers a stronger, more energetic driving experience, while the XLT prioritizes everyday usability, efficiency, and comfort with ample capability for family duties.

Interior, technology, and features

Comparison of cabin comfort, seating, and technology offerings that matter for daily use and long trips.

• Seating and trim: ST features sport-oriented seating and design cues (such as unique upholstery and a performance-inspired steering wheel); XLT provides a more conventional interior with flexible seating options and upscale trim depending on package selection.


• Infotainment and displays: Both trims include Ford’s modern infotainment system with touchscreen and smartphone integration; ST often showcases a larger digital cluster and enhanced audio or navigation options in higher configurations, while XLT focuses on practicality with available upgrades.


• Safety and driver assistance: Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite (adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more) is widely available across trims; higher trims like ST may bundle additional safety and convenience features.


• Convenience features: Expect standard and optional comforts such as heated seats, power-adjustable seating, dual-zone climate, and a power liftgate across both trims, with premium audio and leather/leatherette options varying by year and package.

Conclusion: The ST emphasizes sport-oriented touches and displays, while the XLT focuses on a balanced, versatile interior with flexible options for families and commuters.

Exterior styling and practicality

How the two trims look and how their design choices affect everyday practicality and curb appeal.

• Styling: ST adopts a more aggressive look with a distinct grille, unique badging, quad exhaust outlets, and sport-oriented wheels; XLT presents a more understated, chrome-accented appearance that aligns with a broad family-SUV aesthetic.


• Wheels and tires: ST typically offers larger wheels (often 20 inches or more) and sport-tuned tires; XLT provides a range of wheel sizes with a focus on comfort and noise suppression.


• Cargo and seating configuration: Both trims share the same three-row footprint and similar cargo capacity, though seating arrangements (such as optional second-row captain’s chairs) and trim-specific interiors can affect available cargo space.

Conclusion: If you want a bold, performance-oriented look and feel, ST is the visual and dynamic standout; if you prefer a more traditional, versatile family SUV, the XLT offers broad appeal with flexible options.

Pricing, availability, and ownership considerations

What to expect in terms of cost, dealer availability, and ongoing ownership trade-offs between the two trims.

• Pricing: The ST carries a premium over the XLT due to its higher-output engine, sport-tuned components, and exclusive styling and features.


• Availability: ST configurations may be less common and sometimes have longer lead times depending on market and model year; XLT tends to be more widely stocked with more option combinations.


• Running costs and resale: The ST can have higher fuel costs and potential maintenance for the performance hardware, but its strong performance appeal can help resale value for buyers seeking sportier SUVs.

Conclusion: Choose the XLT for value, practicality, and customization; opt for the ST if you prioritize performance and distinctive styling—and are comfortable with the higher purchase price and potential running costs.

Summary

In short, Ford positions the Explorer XLT as a well-rounded, family-friendly trim with solid efficiency and flexible options, while the Explorer ST targets buyers who want serious performance, sportier styling, and premium features. Your choice should hinge on how important power and handling are to you versus daily practicality, budget, and desired tech. Always verify the latest specifications for your model year and market, as engine outputs, available drivetrains, and standard equipment can shift with updates.

What does XLT mean on a Ford Explorer?

XLT stands for "eXtra Long Truck" and is a popular trim level for the Ford Explorer that adds comfort and convenience features over the base model. It is a mid-to-upper-level trim that typically includes a power driver's seat, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a more upgraded infotainment system compared to the base trim. 
Common XLT features

• Comfort and convenience:
  • Power, heated front seats 
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel 
  • Intelligent Access with push-button start 
  • Roof rack side rails 
  • Second-row captain's chairs with E-Z Entry 
• Technology:
  • 6.5-inch color productivity screen in the instrument cluster 
  • 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility 
• Safety:
  • Ford Co-Pilot360 standard safety features like Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking and Lane-Keeping System 
  • Perimeter alarm and a secure lock passive anti-theft system 
• Exterior:
  • LED signature lighting 
  • Heated side view mirrors with security approach lamps 
  • Often comes with unique cloth seat material or available ActiveX seating material 

How XLT compares to other trims

• Above base: The XLT is a significant step up from the base model, adding many popular features as standard. 
• Below Limited/Platinum: While it is well-equipped, higher trims like the Limited or Platinum will typically include more luxury amenities like ventilated front seats, power-folding mirrors, a hands-free liftgate, and a premium B&O sound system. 

What is the ST package on a Ford Explorer?

The "ST" package on a Ford Explorer stands for Sport Technologies and denotes the performance-oriented trim level. It features a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, a sport-tuned suspension, and performance brakes, along with sporty exterior styling like a black grille and unique wheels. Inside, the ST includes features such as a 12.3-inch digital cluster, special badging, and sport seats with unique stitching.
 
Performance and handling

• Engine: A 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine that produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. 
• Suspension: A sport-tuned suspension that provides sharper, more engaging handling. 
• Brakes: Performance brakes with red-painted calipers, and available larger wheels and tires (depending on specific packages). 
• Exhaust: Quad chrome exhaust tips. 

Exterior features

• Grille: A distinctive black mesh grille.
• Wheels: 21-inch wheels.
• Other styling: Sporty front and rear fascia, ST badging, and gloss black mirror caps. 

Interior features

• Seats: Sport seats with leather and Miko® inserts, red stitching, and the ST logo. 
• Technology: A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a premium Bang & Olufsen® sound system, and a wireless charging pad. 
• Comfort: Heated and ventilated front seats with massage functions, heated steering wheel, and ambient interior lighting. 
• Seating configuration: Second-row captain's chairs and power-folding third-row seats. 

Available options

• ST Street Pack: Includes 21-inch wheels, performance brakes, and red-painted performance front and rear brake calipers.
• ST High-Performance Package: Often includes similar performance upgrades and technology features like a 360-degree camera, rain-sensing wipers, and a B&O sound system. 

What does ST mean on a Ford Explorer?

On a Ford Explorer, ST stands for Sports Technologies and designates a performance-oriented trim level with a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and other upgraded features. This is different from the ST-Line, which offers sporty styling cues without the high-performance upgrades of the full ST. 
Key features of the Ford Explorer ST

• Engine: A turbocharged 3.0L3.0 cap L3.0𝐿 V6 engine that produces 400400400 horsepower and 415415415 lb-ft of torque. 
• Performance: Sport-tuned suspension and performance brakes with red calipers for enhanced handling. 
• Exhaust: Quad chrome exhaust tips. 
• Wheels: 212121-inch Magnetite-painted aluminum wheels. 
• Interior: Sport seats with Miko® inserts and red stitching, a heated steering wheel, and a premium Bang & Olufsen® sound system. 
• Technology: A 12.312.312.3-inch digital instrument panel, a wireless charging pad, and a 360-degree camera system. 

ST vs. ST-Line

Feature	ST	ST-Line
Performance	Includes a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and performance brakes.	Does not include performance upgrades; looks sporty but has the same engine as a base model.
Engine	3.0L3.0 cap L3.0𝐿 V6 twin-turbocharged engine (400400400 hp).	Standard engine options (e.g., 2.3L2.3 cap L2.3𝐿 EcoBoost).
Styling	Aggressive performance styling, including quad exhaust tips and unique badging.	Sporty exterior and interior styling, including black grille and unique wheels.
Suspension	Sport-tuned suspension.	Standard suspension.

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What makes the Explorer ST different?

But let's shoot over to the ST. Now you lose the adaptive headlights. Right you don't get those two bulbs. All right but they are still LED. And the ST grill itself does come a one color blacked.