Think of the Ford Explorer ST as the Superman to the regular Explorer’s mild-mannered Clark Kent.
It won’t leap tall buildings in a single bound, but its performance specifications will leave you impressed nonetheless.
So, what are the key specs that make the Ford Explorer ST so special?
Here are a few important benchmarks to consider:
- A 3.0L twin-turbocharged V6 delivering 400 hp and 415 lb-ft.
- Goes from 0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds and 1/4-mile in 13.8 seconds
- Hits a top speed of 143 mph
Now how’s that for an eye-opener? That performance comes in spite of a heavy 4,853-pound curb weight. For more specs on the one-of-a-kind Ford Explorer ST, just take a closer look at our in-depth article.
A Glance at Ford Explorer History
The Ford Explorer hails from an era where SUVs were still body-on-frame and the minivan was a rising star among families. However, that all started to change in 1990, when the first-generation Explorer was introduced for the 1991 model year.
Since then, the Explorer has changed quite a bit, evolving from a rough-around-the-edges SUV with potential to a comfortable and highly versatile cruiser.
Originally based on the Ford Ranger compact pickup, the Explorer finally shed its truck platform in 2002 and underwent further refinement since.
The mid-size SUV also survived controversy during its second generation. A combination of low tire pressure recommended by the factory and potentially faulty tires made the second-gen Explorer more prone to rollovers than other SUVs of the era. Fortunately, that problem became a thing of the past with successive models.
From the Suburbs to the Speedway
So, where does the Ford Explorer ST fit into the family-friendly lineup? For starters, it’s the top performance option currently offered by the blue oval for mid-size SUV buyers.
Let’s get the big numbers out of the way first: 400 hp and 410 lb-ft from a twin-turbocharged version of the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine. That’s enough grunt to launch the suburban beast from 0 to 60 in 5.2 seconds. The quarter-mile fades away in 13.8 seconds at 101 mph.
To put the power down in a manner that doesn’t just produce tire smoke, Ford makes its intelligent all-wheel drive system a mandatory option. A 10-speed automatic transmission has the task of sending that power to the four wheels with relatively snappy gear changes.
When it’s time to hit the woah pedal, the ST’s 4-wheel disc brakes bring the fun to a quick and safe halt. An available High-Performance pack gives you bigger rotors and grippier brake pads for better stopping power.
Whereas other Explorer trim levels make do with all-season tires, the ST features stickier summer rubber. These tires deliver great grip in warm climates, but fare less well when faced with ice and cold temps. A set of 20-inch alloys come standard, with larger 21-inch wheels available as an option.
Thanks to the Explorer’s new rear-wheel drive architecture, the ST is a fairly balanced machine with only 51.3 percent of its aforementioned curb weight on the front axle. The longitudinal engine placement that comes naturally to RWD vehicles also helps.
Cornering also comes naturally to the Ford Explorer ST thanks to an upgraded suspension system.
Stiffer springs, larger anti-roll bars and significant damper tuning gives the sporty SUV a far more aggressive feel than before. Even the electric-assist power steering is retuned for a heavier feel.
Other Notable Ford Explorer ST Features
By now, the above specs probably have you dead-set on buying the Ford Explorer ST. But there’s more to the mid-sized sport SUV to consider.
Like the high-ranking Platinum model, the Ford Explorer ST also comes with a plethora of features.
Expect niceties like a 14-speaker premium audio system, leather seating, and wireless charging. Both front and rear rows are heated, as is the steering wheel, but the front seats get added ventilation and massage.
The navigation system comes with a 10.1-inch touchscreen that sits prominently on the dashboard.
The whole “tablet glued to dashboard” aesthetic irks many, but others find the display easy to see and use.
The Ford Explorer ST loses the three-row seating capability of its trim-mates, but overall interior and cargo space remains ample. It’s a small price to pay for impressive looks and performance.
What Others are Saying About the Ford Explorer ST
Don’t just take our word about the Ford Explorer ST. Take a look at some of the owner reviews and comments:
Pros:
- Many owners love the 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6 engine’s spirited performance
- The Ford Explorer ST is also surprisingly nimble for its size thanks to the beefed-up suspension
- Many reviewers haven’t had any problems in the first year, so the ST also gets high marks for dependability
Cons:
- The Ford Explorer ST is fast, but it’s still an SUV with a curb weight nearing 5,000 pounds
- The optional 10.1-inch touchscreen is a love-it-or-hate-it affair
- One owner reported transmission shifting issues, especially between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gears
Don’t Miss out on Vehicle History Reports
The Ford Explorer ST is one ride that’s sure to make you the king or queen of the carpool. A quick look at its Vehicle History not only tells you more about this fantastic vehicle, but also helps you avoid common pitfalls when buying a new vehicle.
