The 2017 Ford Explorer Ecoboost established itself as a significant contender in the three-row SUV segment, blending everyday practicality with surprising performance. This model year represented a crucial evolution for the iconic Explorer, moving away from its truck-based roots toward a more refined, car-like driving experience. Buyers were drawn to the combination of the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, which delivered robust power suitable for both family hauling and spirited drives, and the updated exterior styling that gave the vehicle a more aggressive and modern stance. The interior saw substantial upgrades in materials and technology, positioning the Explorer as a technologically advanced option for those needing generous passenger and cargo space.
Design and Exterior Styling Updates
For 2017, the Explorer received a subtle yet impactful refresh that enhanced its commanding road presence. The front fascia featured a redesigned grille and headlight assemblies, integrating the LED daytime running lights more seamlessly into the signature three-bar motif. This visual update not only improved aesthetics but also increased visibility and safety. The rear of the vehicle saw alterations to the bumper and taillight designs, which helped reduce visual clutter and create a smoother underbody appearance. These design tweaks were carefully calibrated to modernize the look without straying too far from the vehicle's established identity, ensuring immediate recognition on the road.
Performance and the Twin-Turbo Ecoboost Engine
At the heart of the 2017 Explorer Ecoboost lies its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, a powertrain that redefined expectations for the class. Producing 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, this engine provided more than enough thrust for confident highway merging and overtaking. The addition of two turbochargers effectively eliminated the lag typically associated with larger displacement naturally aspirated engines, resulting in a linear and responsive acceleration feel. Fuel efficiency saw a notable improvement, with the EPA estimating 18 city / 25 highway MPG, a significant achievement for a vehicle of this size and capability. This blend of power and efficiency made the Ecoboost variant the performance choice for the Explorer lineup.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
Beyond raw power, the 2017 model year brought meaningful improvements to how the Explorer felt to drive. Engineers lowered the engine's position within the chassis, which lowered the center of gravity and reduced body roll during cornering. The standard electronic stability control and traction control systems worked seamlessly with the available intelligent four-wheel-drive system to provide grip and confidence in various weather conditions. While still not a sports car, the steering felt more communicative than in previous generations, and the overall ride quality remained comfortable yet supportive, smoothing out road imperfections without feeling overly soft. This focus on dynamics helped the Explorer compete more effectively with luxury SUVs that prioritized handling.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The cabin of the 2017 Explorer was a major selling point, offering a level of comfort and technology that justified its position as a family hauler. The available leather-trimmed seating surfaces were supple and supportive, with second-row captain's chairs providing a premium feel that was rare in this segment. The center console was redesigned to be less cluttered, and the dashboard materials felt more durable and upscale than before. A significant technological upgrade was the introduction of the SYNC 3 infotainment system, which featured a responsive touch screen, faster processing speeds, and a more intuitive user interface compared to the outdated MyFord Touch system it replaced. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration were not standard at this time but were highly anticipated features that reflected the industry's direction.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
More perspective on 2017 Explorer ecoboost can make the topic easier to follow by connecting earlier points with a few simple takeaways.
