Choosing the 2024 ford explorer base model might feel like you're settling for less, but it's actually a pretty smart way to get a massive SUV without the massive price tag. Most people see "base model" and immediately think of crank windows or a lack of features, but that's just not the case anymore. Ford has packed enough into the entry-level trim to make it a legitimate contender for families who want the space and power of an Explorer but don't care about fancy leather stitching or ambient lighting that changes colors.
It's a weird time for the car market. Everything is getting more expensive, and it's easy to get sucked into the trap of upgrading to the XLT or Limited trims just because they're sitting on the lot. But if you look closely at what you're actually getting for your money, the base model holds its own surprisingly well. It's got the same bones as the more expensive versions, and for many, those bones are exactly what they're looking for.
What's Under the Hood?
One of the best things about the 2024 ford explorer base model is that it doesn't skimp on power. You're getting the 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, which might sound small for a vehicle this size, but it punches way above its weight. It puts out 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Honestly, that's more than enough to get this thing moving on the highway or to merge into traffic without feeling like you're struggling.
It's paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that's mostly smooth, though it can occasionally hunt for gears if you're driving aggressively. For the average person just running errands or taking a road trip, it's perfectly fine. You also get the choice between rear-wheel drive and intelligent four-wheel drive. If you live somewhere where it snows, the 4WD is a no-brainer, but the RWD version actually feels a bit more nimble and gets slightly better gas mileage.
Stepping Inside the Cabin
Inside, the base model is definitely more "utilitarian" than "luxury," but that's not necessarily a bad thing. You get cloth seats, which, let's be real, are sometimes better than leather in the summer when your car has been sitting in the sun for three hours. The seats are comfortable enough for long hauls, and there's plenty of adjustment for the driver.
The layout is clean. You're looking at an 8-inch touchscreen running Ford's SYNC 3 system. While it's not the massive vertical screen you'll find in the higher trims, it's actually very user-friendly. It comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is basically all most of us use anyway. It's snappy, the menus make sense, and you don't have to dig through five layers of digital buttons just to turn down the air conditioning.
The second row is a bench seat, which means you can technically fit seven people in the vehicle. The third row is well, it's a third row. It's great for kids or for that one friend who always complains but doesn't have a car. Adults won't want to spend three hours back there, but for short trips across town, it gets the job done.
Safety Tech You Actually Get
Usually, when you go for a base trim, you expect to lose out on all the cool safety gadgets. Ford didn't do that here. Every 2024 ford explorer base model comes with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite. This is a huge win because it includes things like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a lane-keeping system.
It also has automatic emergency braking and auto high-beam headlamps. These aren't just "nice to have" features; they're the kind of things that actually make daily driving less stressful. Knowing the car is looking out for a cyclist in your blind spot or will hit the brakes if the guy in front of you suddenly stops makes a big difference. You don't have to pay $50,000 to feel safe in this car, and that's a major selling point.
Practicality and Cargo Space
Let's talk about why people buy these things in the first place: the space. The Explorer is a big vehicle. Even in the base trim, you have a ton of room for groceries, sports gear, or camping equipment. With all the seats up, the cargo area is a bit tight, but that's true for almost every SUV in this class.
Once you fold that third row down, the space opens up significantly. If you fold both the second and third rows, you basically have a small van. It's incredibly versatile. Whether you're hauling a new TV home from the store or taking the dog to the park, the 2024 ford explorer base model handles it without breaking a sweat.
Another thing to mention is the towing capacity. Even with the base engine, this thing can tow up to 5,300 pounds when properly equipped. That's enough for a small boat or a couple of jet skis. It makes the base model a legitimate tool for weekend warriors who don't want to jump up to a full-size truck.
How It Feels on the Road
Driving the Explorer is a pretty relaxed experience. It's not a sports car, so don't expect it to hug corners like a Mustang, but it feels planted and stable. The suspension does a good job of soaking up bumps and potholes, which is exactly what you want in a family cruiser.
The steering is light, making it easy to maneuver in parking lots, though the Explorer's sheer size can still be a bit intimidating if you're coming from a sedan. The visibility is generally good, and the backup camera helps a lot when you're trying to squeeze into a tight spot at the grocery store.
One thing you might notice is that it's relatively quiet inside. Ford put some effort into sound deadening, so you don't get a ton of road noise or wind whistle at highway speeds. It makes it easy to have a conversation with passengers without having to shout over the engine.
The Price Factor
This is where the 2024 ford explorer base model really shines. It starts at a much more approachable price point than the ST or Platinum trims. When you look at the monthly payments, the gap between the base and the XLT can be significant, and you have to ask yourself if you really need those heated seats or the power liftgate.
For a lot of buyers, the answer is no. They just want a reliable, safe, and spacious vehicle that can get the family from point A to point B. By sticking with the base model, you're saving thousands of dollars that could go toward gas, insurance, or your next vacation. It's the "value play" in the Explorer lineup, and it makes a lot of financial sense.
Is There a Catch?
It wouldn't be a fair look at the car if we didn't mention the trade-offs. The wheels are 18-inch painted aluminum, which look fine, but they aren't as flashy as the 20 or 21-inch wheels on higher trims. You also don't get the fancy LED signature lighting or the chrome accents that make the more expensive Explorers pop.
The interior materials are definitely more "plastic-heavy." While it's durable and easy to clean (which is a plus if you have kids who spill things), it doesn't feel "premium." If you're someone who values the look and feel of your cabin and wants that upscale vibe, the base model might feel a bit plain to you.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the 2024 ford explorer base model is a workhorse. It provides all the essential features that make the Explorer a great SUV—power, safety, and space—without the fluff that drives up the price. It's a solid choice for anyone who wants a dependable three-row vehicle but wants to keep their budget in check.
It's easy to get distracted by the fancy trims with their massive screens and leather-wrapped everything, but there's something refreshing about a car that just does its job well. If you can live without the sunroof and the heated steering wheel, the base Explorer offers a lot of vehicle for the money. It's practical, it's capable, and it's arguably the most sensible version of one of America's favorite SUVs.