2017 Ford Explorer Limited vs 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum

The 2017 Ford Explorer Limited vs 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum. What’s Your Choice?

Serving Warner Robins, Macon, and Dublin, GA

Among family vehicles, the Explorer definitely ranks high in popularity. This three-row SUV starts off fine and only gets better as you climb the trim ladder. The popular Limited edition is a third-tier edition with many premium features. The luxurious Platinum is the top of the ladder, and it definitely wears the clothes and carries the technologies to prove it.

Performance

The Limited comes in front-wheel or all-wheel drive. The engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo with 280 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. This I-4 functions more like a V6 but maximizes gas mileage, especially on the highway. You can also opt for the 290-horsepower V6 with 255 lb.-ft. of torque. The suspension is an independent front and rear system. Platinum editions are powered by the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine with 365 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque. For more fun, the vehicle has a unique sport-tuned suspension. Terrain management and Hill Descent Control are standards due to the standard Intelligent Four-Wheel Drivetrain. The top towing power is 5,000 pounds. Handling is enhanced by such features as Curve Control. This system can reduce speed by 10 mph in just one second if needed for safety on tight curves. Trailer Sway Control helps this big SUV manage a tow.

Appearance

More chrome, including a chrome grille, dress the Limited edition. Leather upholstery dresses the Limited’s first two rows. Drivers will appreciate the power-heated, power-adjusting steering wheel while the kids may be more interested in the dual-pane moonroof. Ambient lighting and push-button start add to the modern feel. Front seats are 10-way power-adjustable, power-heated and power-cooled. Multicontour seats with ActiveMotion massage are also available.

A unique satin-finish grille and other satin-finish trim set the Platinum apart. Offering all of the Limited’s best features and more, the top edition wears a higher-quality leather upholstery with special quilted inserts and a front-row embroidered design. Both models offer available center bucket seats with power-heated cushions. The Platinum bucket seats also have a Power-Assist Fold mechanism. Both models have a PowerFold 50/50 split-fold rear seat and a power liftgate.

Technology and Safety

The Explorer Limited has a premium, 12-speaker Sony system while the Platinum upgrades that to a 500-Watt system with Clear Phase and Live Acoustics. Voice-activated navigation is part of the touchscreen system on both models. Every Explorer proudly claims the five-star safety designation from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Seven airbags can be expanded to include inflatable seatbelts for second-row passengers. Emphasizing avoidance, the Platinum has a blind spot information system with a rear cross-traffic alert. It also has standard adaptive cruise control with collision warning and brake support. A lane departure alert is strengthened by an assist. Drivers also enjoy a parallel/perpendicular parking system. All of these warnings and automated features are options on the Limited. Platinum drivers can also get the 180-degree front camera that helps you see around corners during slow maneuvering.

The best way to make a comparison is to see the Limited and Platinum editions side by side. Come down to our dealership and take a test drive of your favorite trim.