For the adventurous heart, road trips are a way of life. The freedom to explore sites, cities, and the great outdoors means a world of possibilities. You can pack up your car with a couple of suitcases, sporting equipment, snacks, and a killer playlist and head out for a night, weekend, or much longer. If this sounds like you, you’ll understand the value of investing in a vehicle that seamlessly transitions to meet all your needs. If it’s unrealistic for you to own more than one vehicle, either because it’s too expensive or you don’t have somewhere to store it, the mission becomes finding the perfect vehicle that can check all your boxes. Thankfully, this isn’t as daunting as it may seem.
It’s hard to argue against SUVs when naming the best road trip companions. The convenience factor of an SUV is undeniable. Most SUVs are generous in cargo room, equipped with at least some off-roading prowess, and seem far more suitable and comfortable for a multi-day excursion. A vehicle like the 2023 Ford Explorer checks all the boxes. Perhaps, that’s where the name “Explorer” originates. This domineering three-row midsize SUV can champion a trip of epic proportions. The Explorer can store, tow, perform, and entertain, making it a perfect travel companion. But best of all, the 2023 Ford Explorer is practical, thus making it an ideal car for daily life just as much as it’s ideal for one-off road trips.
Preparing for a Road Trip
If you’re a novice at planning road trips, there is no shortage of valuable information available online to guide you in the do’s and don’ts. Many of those guidelines will depend on where you’re heading. Summer road trips versus winter road trips and setting will be a big determining factor for how you pack. There is also the distance to consider and ways to prep your SUV to make the most of any trip and minimize potential problems. But most importantly, the vehicle you choose shouldn’t be an afterthought. Whatever you decide to take, you should be prepared for your travels.
It’s always a great idea to prepare your vehicle by getting an inspection done with a trusted mechanic. Check to make sure your tires are in good condition, all the fluids are at suggested levels, and your vehicle is stocked with an emergency preparedness kit, spare tire, tire pressure gauge, and any other tools that will lend you peace of mind. When you’re done packing the more serious supplies, you can move on to the fun stuff: clothes, sporting equipment, snacks, playlists, audiobooks, and whatever else will keep you entertained as you travel. It’s always a good idea to stockpile lots of drinking water, and download map features to be used if you don’t have access to an internet connection.
Why the Ford Explorer Is Perfect for Those Epic Long-Distance Trips
When it comes to the vehicle, you’ll want a road trip car that can handle whatever you throw at it. A vehicle like the 2023 Ford Explorer was designed for this exact task. From foraging rough terrain, to securely storing everything you’ll need, the Explorer offers the capabilities you’ll need to fulfill any outdoor aspirations. For 2023, Ford has given consumers a choice of eight trim levels. From most affordable to most luxurious, the trims are the Base, XLT, ST-Line, Limited, Timberline, ST, Platinum, and the top-of-the-line King Ranch. Among these trims, you’ll find three different engine options, tons of great safety and driver assistance features, and a variety of interior creature comforts.
The option to customize the Explorer to your exact specifications makes this vehicle stand out among the pack. Ford makes it easy to hone in on the features you’ll need without sacrificing efficiency or value. The 2023 Explorer has three available engines that deliver power, fun, and fuel efficiency. On the Base, XLT, and Limited trims, you’ll get the 2.3L four-cylinder engine that delivers 300 hp.
For a faster, more powerful engine, drivers can opt for the ST, King Ranch, or Platinum, which all come with a stronger 3.0L V6 that produces an impressive 400 hp. Finally, those who crave efficiency above all can choose a hybrid powertrain configured with a 3.3L Hybrid V6 with an electric motor. This engine delivers 318 hp and is available for the Limited and Platinum trim levels.
The Ford Explorer has a base rear-wheel drive system but offers the choice of all-wheel drive. The sophisticated suspension comes in handy when driving on dirt and unpaved roads, making it a breeze to get in and out of campsites. Each model comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission that seamlessly propels you on highways and city roads alike. But, one of the best performance features has to be the Explorer’s ability to tow up to a staggering 5,600 lbs when properly equipped.
When you need additional support, the Ford Co-Pilot 360 suite of features will give you the confidence you need on the road, wherever your travels may take you. This suite features helpful technology like auto high-beam headlamps, a rearview camera, pre-collision assist, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and the Blind Side Information System (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert. These features help you navigate the busiest traffic and alert you to potential hazards in a timely manner.
Impeccable performance aside, the 2023 Explorer is also inundated with comfort and convenience, giving it a competitive edge over similar SUVs. With seating for up to seven passengers, there is plenty of thought and consideration designed into every inch of the Explorer’s interior. To keep you and your passengers entertained, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system provides compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, or you can opt for the larger 10.1-inch display. The settings are easily customizable, giving drivers a personalized experience that adjusts to their preferences. Enjoy all your favorite music, audiobooks, and podcasts on the available 14-speaker B&O sound system by Bang & Olufsen that includes a subwoofer.
The second and third row of seating provides ample cargo space for passengers and their belongings. If your road trip calls for a little downtime, this Explorer makes a great environment for a recharging nap. These rows are user-friendly, allowing you to fold down and manipulate them to maximize cargo space when you need it. Easily pack multiple suitcases, camping supplies, sporting equipment, and more. Road tripping to somewhere far away? The available multicontour driver’s seat with Active Motion helps you stay comfortable and offers five upper and lower back massage settings to keep you alert and refreshed.
Travel in Comfort and Style With the 2023 Ford Explorer
Investing in the 2023 Ford Explorer is an investment in a future full of fun and exploration. Limitless flexibility provides you with a vehicle that handles above and beyond, whether you’re running a simple errand or taking a multi-day road trip across a thousand miles. Ford aptly named this SUV the Explorer for its suite of features that help you think outside the box. The roomy, comfortable interior delivers for you and your passengers, making the journey just as fun as the destination, while modern technology keeps you connected even when you’re on the go. The 2023 Explorer has three practical powertrains, tons of helpful driver assistance, adaptive suspension, fuel efficiency, and the institutional success of being part of the Ford family of vehicles. If you end up in one of these Explorers, your adventurous heart will surely thank you.
