What is the difference between Ford Explorer ST and ST-Line?
The Ford Explorer is a popular SUV known for its versatility, performance, and family-friendly features. Within the Explorer lineup, the ST and ST-Line trims stand out for their sporty appeal. However, while they share some similarities, they cater to different types of drivers. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between the Ford Explorer ST and ST-Line to help you decide which one is right for you.
Performance and Powertrain
The most significant difference between the ST and ST-Line lies under the hood. The Ford Explorer ST is designed for drivers who crave performance, while the ST-Line focuses more on sporty aesthetics without the high-powered engine.
- Ford Explorer ST: The ST is equipped with a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that delivers an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. It also features a sport-tuned suspension for enhanced handling and performance.
- Ford Explorer ST-Line: The ST-Line, on the other hand, comes with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4 engine, producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. While it offers a spirited drive, it is not as performance-focused as the ST.
Exterior Design
Both trims share a sporty and aggressive design, but there are subtle differences that set them apart.
- Ford Explorer ST: The ST features unique badging, quad exhaust tips, and 21-inch aluminum wheels, emphasizing its high-performance nature.
- Ford Explorer ST-Line: The ST-Line adopts many of the ST’s sporty design cues, such as blacked-out accents and a distinctive grille, but it lacks the ST badging and some of the premium exterior features.
Interior Features
Inside, both trims offer a modern and tech-forward cabin, but the ST provides additional luxury and performance-oriented touches.
- Ford Explorer ST: The ST trim includes leather-trimmed seats with Miko inserts, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and optional features like massaging front seats and a premium sound system.
- Ford Explorer ST-Line: The ST-Line features ActiveX seating material with red stitching, a sporty steering wheel, and a slightly simplified interior compared to the ST.
Price and Target Audience
The price difference between the two trims reflects their distinct purposes.
- Ford Explorer ST: With its high-performance engine and premium features, the ST is priced higher and is ideal for drivers who want a thrilling driving experience and top-tier amenities.
- Ford Explorer ST-Line: The ST-Line is more affordable and caters to those who want the sporty look of the ST without the added cost of performance upgrades.
Which One Should You Choose?
Your choice between the Ford Explorer ST and ST-Line ultimately depends on your priorities. If you value performance and luxury, the ST is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a sporty design at a more budget-friendly price, the ST-Line is an excellent option. Both trims offer the reliability and versatility that the Ford Explorer is known for, so you can’t go wrong with either choice!
Frequently Asked Questions
What year explorer to stay away from?
What Are the Least Reliable Ford Explorer Years? No generation in the history of the Ford Explorer was plagued with more problems than the third generation, specifically the 2002-2006 models.
What is the difference between a Ford Explorer ST and an ST-Line?
The ST-Line adds sportier cosmetic upgrades like blacked-out exterior elements, larger wheels, and red interior stitching. The ST includes those cosmetic upgrades but takes it a step further, adding performance-focused brakes, suspension, and a more powerful engine as standard.
Why is the Ford Explorer ST so fast?
This is because the engine comes with twin turbocharged six cylinders that outputs 400 horsepower and displaces 3.0 liters. This makes the Ford Explorer into more of a performance SUV, rather than just a standard run of the mill vehicle like its competitors.
Does Explorer ST need premium fuel?
Does the Ford Explorer ST need premium fuel? No, the ST doesn't need premium fuel. The engine that the ST comes with doesn't require premium gas, simply using 87 octane will suffice. Looking a bit closer at the fuel, and the fuel economy, you will find that the ST gets 21 MPG combined.
What is the Ford Explorer ST package?
The 2023 Ford Explorer ST Standard Packages
These features include Auto High-Beam Headlamps, BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, and Rear View Camera.
What is the biggest problem with the Ford Explorer?
The most significant issue with the Ford Explorer 2023 has been the recall of approximately 230,000 vehicles due to a faulty rear axle bolt. This defect can cause the vehicle to lose power and potentially roll away, posing serious safety risks.
Which is faster Ford RS or ST?
Top speed: 155mph
If you want a hot hatch to track, then the Focus RS is the clear winner here as it's got quicker acceleration and its AWD system is ideal for getting up to speed and cornering.
What is the difference between ST-Line and st?
Style and Features: The ST-Line combines the sporty aesthetics of the ST model with some features from the Limited trim. Engine: It retains the standard 300-horsepower turbo four-cylinder engine. Price: The ST-Line is significantly more affordable, costing nearly $11,000 less than the ST model.
What does ST-Line stand for?
Sports Technologies
There are a range of impressive ST models to choose from – but what do those letters actually mean? In the Ford lineup, ST stands for 'Sports Technologies' and is a trim that offers sporty cars that excel in styling and performance.
What is the highest end Ford Explorer?
Ford Explorer Platinum
The highest trim level in the 2024 Ford Explorer lineup is the Ford Explorer Platinum. This trim level comes with the most luxurious features, like leather upholstery with tri-diamond perforated inserts, an available twin-panel moonroof, and a premium 12-speaker audio system. A 14-speaker option is also available.
