With the proper Ford Explorer technology package, you'll have an SUV that displays uncanny intuitiveness while traveling around Glen Allen, Ashland, and Rockville, Virginia. From driver-assistance features that help keep you safe on the open road to infotainment that links up with your phone, Ford has done all they can to make the Explorer easy to use and enjoyable.
By reviewing the 2021 Ford Explorer technology, we thought nearby car shoppers might be able to better understand the value of this acclaimed SUV. You can always reach out to your friends at Richmond Ford West for a test drive, too!
Safety & Driver-Assistance Technology
You'll find that the Ford Explorer is always looking out for your well-being, whether you're motoring along the highway or making your way around town.
Ford Co-Pilot360â„¢ is a worthwhile package that introduces loads of helpful technology into your SUV.
A Rear View Camera, BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System), Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, and Auto High-Beam Headlamps all come standard and give you an extra set of eyes on the open road.
Additional features can be had when stepping up to the Ford Co-Pilot360â„¢ Assist+ arrangement. These include Speed Sign Recognition and Evasive Steering Assist.
Plus, optional systems like Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control-which will automatically accelerate and decelerate the SUV to maintain your distance behind a car-and Hill Descent Controlâ„¢ go a long way toward improving the protection of the model.
Finally-and perhaps most impressively-the 2021 Explorer can actually park itself! Courtesy of the available Active Park Assist 2.0 system, you can line up your SUV with a parallel or perpendicular parking place, hold down the Active Park Assist button in the cabin, and the Explorer will take it from there. By gently turning the wheel, as well as accelerating and decelerating on its own initiative, you'll find that the SUV quickly settles itself into place.
Connect Your Phone to the SUV
There are a few different systems within the 2021 Explorer that will allow you to easily link your smartphone with the vehicle.
SYNC® 3 is the standard interface, and it comes with voice-activated technology so that your hands never have to leave the wheel. Also playing a role are integration systems like Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, a pairing that allows you to directly link your smartphone with the Explorer. Once linked, music, navigation, and much more can be accessed.
As for the touchscreen display, you have the option of moving up to a stunning 10.1-inch LCD capacitive portrait outlay. Furthermore, if the battery of your phone begins to get low as you're reaching the end of your road trip, you can utilize the available wireless charging pad.
Stay in Touch with the Outside World
The Ford Explorer serves as a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot that you can use to connect devices like an iPad or smartphone. Even when you're not around the SUV, applications like FordPass Connect™ give you the ability to lock, unlock, and start your car remotely.
There's also Ford+Alexa, a handy way to stay connected with your smart home devices or access Amazon Prime shopping on the go.
Technology to Take You Off-Road
Technology for the 2021 Ford Explorer isn't limited to in-cabin infotainment screens and automated parking maneuvers. Ford built the Explorer to be a machine that you can confidently use to travel over various terrain.
At the heart of the vehicle's off-road readiness is an intelligent 4WD (4-wheel drive) setup with a Terrain Management Systemâ„¢.
Basically, this setup allows you to personally select one of seven unique driving modes. Each mode alters throttle response, traction, and other performance features to help you best navigate various surfaces. Plus, each mode also comes with specialized 3D graphics, which can be animated on the optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster located behind the steering wheel.
So, what are the available modes? Well, Normal mode is one option. Another is Slippery, which is ideal if you're driving through a heavy rainstorm or over icy/slick pavement.
The rest of the modes you can move between include:
- Trail
- Deep Snow/ Sand
- Sport
- Tow/Haul
- Eco
Hybrid Technology
The 2021 Ford Explorer can be had with one of three available engines. Each option brings with it a unique personality that will influence how your SUV behaves on the local streets.
The standard powerplant is a burly 2.3L 4-cylinder making 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. As with the other two motors, this 4-cylinder is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. For the drivetrain, you'll enjoy a rear-wheel drive arrangement with available 4WD capability.
The strongest motor of the trio comes in two states of tune. It's a 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 that generates 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque in its original state. For those who really love driving, though, the Ford Explorer ST trim is the way to go.
Along with other performance bits, the ST receives 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque from this same 3.0L V6. Intelligent 4WD is the only drivetrain option for this model, ensuring you always have traction to put down the impressive power from this imposing motor.
Finally, those seeking the most fuel-efficient powerplant will be happy to know the 2021 Explorer touts a 3.3L Hybrid. The upgraded fuel economy from this hybrid doesn't hinder power, either, as the 3.3L makes 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque.
Just in case you were curious, each engine can deliver sturdy amounts of available towing capacity:
- The 2.3L reaches a maximum towing capacity of 5,300 pounds.
- The 3.3L Hybrid reaches a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
- The 3.0L V6 reaches a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds!
Give the 2021 Ford Explorer Technology Package a Look
For any excursions near Glen Allen, Ashland, or Rockville, VA, the Ford Explorer will be an enjoyable companion.
For a full look at the Ford Explorer technology packages, contact our staff or come by Richmond Ford West!