The 2017 Ford Explorer represents a significant moment in the evolution of the iconic three-row SUV, blending refined performance with practical family dynamics. When discussing the 2017 Ford Explorer 0-60 capability, it is essential to look beyond the raw number and understand the engineering package that delivers this acceleration. This specific model year sits at the intersection of modern technology and muscular design, offering a driving experience that feels both composed and powerful.
Engine Specifications and Performance Hardware
To accurately assess the 2017 Ford Explorer 0-60 potential, one must first examine the powertrain options available. For the 2017 model year, Ford continued its partnership with EcoBoost, offering a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that produced 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission and utilized an intelligent four-wheel-drive system. The combination of forced induction and a robust transmission allowed the Explorer to transition from a stationary position to highway speeds with a surge of power that felt immediate rather than hesitant.
AWD System and Weight Distribution
All-wheel drive is a critical factor in translating the engine’s output to the ground, and the 2017 Explorer’s system is designed for real-world traction rather than just drag strip dominance. Power is distributed between the front and rear axles based on traction needs, which enhances grip during acceleration, especially in less-than-ideal weather conditions. However, the trade-off for this capability is weight; the Explorer carries a significant curb weight due to its steel-intensive body-on-frame construction. This mass means that the 2017 Ford Explorer 0-60 time benefits from the traction provided by AWD but must also overcome the inertia of a heavy chassis.
Real-World Performance Dynamics
While the stopwatch provides a snapshot, the driving experience defines the 2017 model. The initial launch off the line is firm and authoritative, with the turbocharged engine providing a linear surge of power that avoids the harshness often associated with older trucks. The transmission shifts smoothly, keeping the engine within its optimal power band without sacrificing comfort. This balance ensures that the 2017 Ford Explorer 0-60 mph feel is not just quick, but also controlled and stable.
Steering and Body Control
Ford equipped this generation of the Explorer with an electronic power steering system that provides excellent feedback at speed while remaining light in low-speed maneuvering. During hard acceleration, the body maintains a relatively level posture, thanks to the suspension tuning, which prevents excessive nose-diving. This composure is a testament to Ford’s engineering, as it allows the driver to harness the power of the 2017 Ford Explorer 0-60 setup without feeling disconnected from the road or overwhelmed by the vehicle’s size.
Comparative Context in the Market
When placed alongside competitors from that era, the 2017 Ford Explorer 0-60 performance holds its own. Rivals such as the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot offered competent V6 engines, but they often lacked the aggressive tuning and sporty feel that Ford emphasized. The Explorer’s acceleration provided a clear advantage for buyers who refused to compromise on driving dynamics. It occupied a unique niche in the market, serving as a practical family hauler that did not shy away from spirited back-road drives.
