The 2017 Ford Explorer represents a pivotal moment in the SUV’s history, marking the full arrival of the EcoBoost era for this iconic American vehicle. For years, the Explorer was synonymous with the reliable but thirsty 4.6-liter V8 or the capable yet complex 4.0-liter inline-six. The introduction of the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine shifted the paradigm, offering compelling power, better fuel efficiency, and a lighter curb weight. This specific model year stands as a benchmark, blending the practicality families needed with the performance enthusiasts desired, all while navigating the evolving expectations of the modern driver.
Engineering the Power: The 3.5L EcoBoost Engine
The heart of the 2017 Explorer’s appeal lies squarely under the hood with its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. This sophisticated piece of engineering utilizes direct injection and twin turbochargers to produce an impressive 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This output not only matches but often surpasses the old 3.7-liter naturally aspirated V6, providing a significant boost in acceleration and towing capacity. The engine’s design prioritizes a lower center of gravity compared to the outgoing V8, which contributes to improved handling dynamics and a more planted feel during spirited driving or emergency maneuvers.
Performance and Efficiency in Harmony
What makes the 2017 EcoBoost engine particularly impressive is its ability to deliver sports car-like responsiveness without sacrificing daily usability. The turbochargers provide a surge of power across the rev range, eliminating the sluggishness often associated with smaller displacement engines. Ford’s engineers complemented this powerplant with a new six-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned to optimize shifts for both performance and fuel economy. Real-world testing consistently showed the Explorer achieving better-than-expected MPG, especially on the highway, making long-distance trips far more economical than one might expect from such a capable vehicle.
Refined Dynamics and Handling
Gone are the days of the Explorer being merely a lumbering appliance on wheels. The 2017 model year brought a more engaging driving experience, thanks in part to a revised suspension and an available Intelligent four-wheel-drive system. The standard rear-wheel-drive layout, combined with the lighter EcoBoost engine, reduces rotational mass, leading to snappier throttle response. When the optional Intelligent 4WD system is engaged, it provides confident traction in various conditions, distributing power intelligently between the front and rear axles. This combination results in a ride that feels balanced, stable, and remarkably free of body roll, especially when compared to its predecessors.
Interior Space and Family-Friendly Design
The Explorer’s traditional strength—its spacious interior—remains a cornerstone of its design in 2017. The three-row seating configuration comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers, a key selling point for larger families. The second-row bench seat offers ample room for adults, while the third row, while best suited for children or shorter trips, is a genuine improvement over the cramped "opera windows" of older models. With the second row folded, the Explorer transforms into a formidable hauler, providing a vast and flat cargo area perfect for hauling furniture, sporting equipment, or weekend getaway luggage. The overall build quality and materials used throughout the cabin reinforce the sense of a premium, well-appointed vehicle.
