
One of the many things Ford excels at is including customizability into each of their models. The 2021 Ford Explorer trim levels are a perfect example. This SUV can be anything you need, from a luxurious family-hauler to a performance-oriented thrill ride. Before you test drive the model around Glen Allen, Ashland, and Rockville, you'll first want to have an idea of what each trim provides.
At Richmond Ford West, we developed a trim level overview for the 2021 Explorer. The following goes through all five trims and lays out their specific features and abilities!
2021 Explorer

No fancy names are tied to the base trim of the 2021 Ford Explorer. Simply called the Explorer, this standard offering is strong and smart.
A 2.3L engine is under the hood, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission works the gears.
Safety technology comes in the form of a reverse sensing system, which beeps if you're about to collide with an object while reversing.
XLT
For the XLT, the second trim of the 2021 Explorer, you receive a boost in the cabin plus some adventurous technology.
The first-row seats are heated, which is a big plus when the weather cools down. Then there's the Terrain Management system which allows you to switch between the following drive modes by turning a dial:
- Normal
- Trail
- Deep snow/sand
- Slippery
- Sport
- Tow/haul
- Eco
Limited
The option for a hybrid motor is available on the Limited trim. Even with an emphasis on fuel economy, this hybrid 3.3L makes 318 horsepower, 322 lb-ft of torque, and can tow as much as 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.
In-cabin features include leather seating surfaces with accent stitching and micro-perforation plus a SNYC® interface with voice-activated navigation.
ST

Thrill-seekers will immediately be drawn to the performance-oriented ST trim. The ST is a name that has popped up for a few Ford vehicles. It's the performance variant of each Ford model. For the 2021 Ford Explorer ST, you receive a 3.0L engine that generates up to 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
In addition to the ST's ability to hit a top speed of 143 MPH, this trim also comes with some interior niceties, such as leather seating surfaces with ST logos and City Silver accent stitching.
Platinum
The fully loaded Platinum trim for the Ford Explorer is graceful, strong, and comes complete with upscale amenities. The sound system is a B&O creation by Bang & Olufsen that touts 14 speakers and 980-Watts of power.
The Tri-Diamond perforated leather seating surfaces come with accent stitching. There's also an optional twin-panel moonroof.
Test Drive Your Favorite Ford Explorer Trim Level!
The 2021 Ford Explorer trims all exude a unique personality. If you want, you can test drive a few of them around Glen Allen, Ashland, and Rockville. Our Richmond Ford West inventory has each Explorer variation ready and waiting to go! If you have more questions about the spacious SUV, contact our team.