What is the limited package on a Ford Explorer?
The Limited package is Ford’s mid‑level Explorer trim that adds luxury and technology features on top of the base options. It typically sits above the XLT and below the higher-end Platinum or ST variants, though the exact contents can vary by model year and market.
What the Limited trim typically includes
Across generations, the Limited trim is known for premium interior materials, comfort features, and enhanced technology. The following items are commonly found on Explorer Limited models, but availability depends on year and region.
- Leather‑trimmed seating with a power driver's seat (often with memory settings)
- Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel
- Dual- or tri‑zone automatic climate control
- Upgraded infotainment with a larger touchscreen and, where offered, built‑in navigation
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Power liftgate for easy cargo access
- Remote start and additional convenience features in some years
- Premium audio options or enhanced cabin amenities on certain years
- All‑wheel drive availability with Ford’s AWD tech on configured models
In short, the Limited is the feature‑rich mid‑range option in the Explorer lineup, designed to deliver comfort, connectivity, and convenience beyond the base model while remaining less lavish than higher trims.
How the Limited package has evolved by model year
Ford’s trim contents shift with redesigns and market variations. Generally, the Limited remains the value proposition for buyers who want more luxury and tech than the base model without stepping up to the top tier, but the exact features can change from year to year.
- Current and recent generations: leather seating, upgraded infotainment, enhanced driver‑assist features where available, and sometimes panoramic sunroof or premium audio on select configurations
- Earlier or regional variants: leather and comfort features commonly included, with feature availability depending on market and options chosen
To confirm the exact contents for a specific Explorer, check the vehicle’s window sticker, Ford’s official Build & Price tool for the model year, or ask a dealer to verify the precise Limited package contents for that configuration.
How to identify the Limited package on a Ford Explorer when shopping
When shopping for a used or new Explorer, look for the following indicators that commonly accompany the Limited trim, noting that features can vary by year:
- Interior: leather seating surfaces and a more upscale cabin look
- Comfort: heated seating and typically a heated steering wheel
- Tech: larger infotainment screen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support
- Convenience: power liftgate and often remote start or ambient lighting
- Badge: Limited badge on the exterior or in the instrument cluster when present
If in doubt, verify with the official brochure or a dealership to ensure the specific vehicle’s features align with the Limited designation for that year.
Summary: The Limited package represents Ford’s mid‑range, feature‑rich trim for the Explorer. It focuses on interior comfort, upgraded technology, and convenience features, with exact contents varying by model year and market. Always confirm year‑specific features via official Ford sources or a dealer.
Which is better, Explorer XLT or Limited?
The main differences are that the Ford Explorer Limited is a more luxurious trim than the XLT, offering standard leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and more premium technology and safety features like a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, voice-activated navigation, and a 360-degree camera. The XLT comes with cloth seats and standard first-row heated seats, and while it shares some safety features, the Limited adds more advanced ones.
You can watch this video to learn about the features of the XLT and Limited trims of the 2022 Ford Explorer: 1mBuild Your OwnYouTube · Jan 15, 2022
Ford Explorer XLT vs. Limited
| Feature | Ford Explorer XLT | Ford Explorer Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Standard cloth or optional ActiveX | Standard leather-trimmed |
| Front Seats | Standard first-row heated seats | Heated and ventilated front seats with driver memory |
| Second-Row Seats | Heated second-row seats are optional | Standard heated second-row seats |
| Technology | Standard 8-inch touchscreen, smart device app connections, and tri-zone auto climate control | Adds voice-activated navigation, 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, wireless charging pad, and hands-free power liftgate |
| Safety | Includes lane keeping, frontal collision avoidance, blind-spot detection, and rear cross-traffic sensing | Adds evasive steering assist, a 360-degree camera with split-view display, and adaptive cruise control |
| Exterior | Standard 18-inch wheels | Adds 20-inch premium aluminum wheels, LED fog lamps, and power-folding heated side mirrors with security approach lamps |
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Which one to choose?
- Choose the XLT if you want a capable and well-equipped SUV that is more budget-friendly, and you don't need the premium features of the Limited.
- Choose the Limited if you are looking for a more luxurious experience with enhanced comfort features like leather seats and ventilated front seats, plus more advanced technology and safety systems.
Is limited or platinum better Explorer?
The Ford Explorer Platinum is a more luxurious, top-tier trim that builds upon the features of the Limited trim by adding premium materials and exclusive amenities like real wood interior trim, tri-diamond perforated leather seats, a 14-speaker B&O sound system, and a twin-panel moonroof. The Limited trim, while still well-equipped, offers a balance of luxury and technology but lacks some of the high-end finishes found on the Platinum.
This video provides a detailed overview of the differences between the Ford Explorer trim levels, including a comparison of features between the Limited and Platinum models: 59sPennyrile FordYouTube · May 5, 2020
Ford Explorer Limited features
- Leather-trimmed seats with micro-perforation and accent stitching
- 12-speaker B&O® sound system by Bang & Olufsen®
- Second-row captain's chairs with power-assist fold and E-Z entry
Ford Explorer Platinum features
- Luxury interior: Real wood interior trim, tri-diamond perforated leather seats with accent stitching, and illuminated front scuff plates
- Premium audio: 14-speaker B&O® sound system by Bang & Olufsen®
- Advanced technology: 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and standard Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist+ suite
- Exterior upgrades: Satin aluminum grille, unique wheels, and adaptive LED headlamps with LED signature lighting
- Added convenience: Hands-free, foot-activated liftgate and standard power-folding third-row seats
This video demonstrates the luxurious interior of the Ford Explorer Platinum and highlights some of its premium features: 53sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Jan 30, 2017
What does Ford Explorer Limited mean?
The Ford Explorer Limited package is a mid-trim configuration of the new 2024 Explorer lineup that adds leather-trimmed seating surfaces, complete with perforated inserts and accent stitching.
What is special about the Ford Limited?
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