The Ford Explorer has long been one of the most popular SUVs on the market. But when it comes to categorizing SUVs, the line between “mid-size” and “full-size” can often be blurry. One of the most common questions potential buyers have when considering the Ford Explorer is whether it qualifies as a full-size SUV. This question is not as straightforward as it may seem, because the SUV category is nuanced, and the definition of “full-size” can vary.
In this article, we will dive into the specifics of the Ford Explorer, examining its dimensions, design, performance, and features to determine whether it truly fits into the “full-size” category. Let’s explore the details in depth.
Understanding the SUV Classification System
Before we determine whether the Ford Explorer qualifies as a full-size SUV, it’s essential to understand how SUVs are categorized. The SUV classification system is based on several factors, including the vehicle’s size, interior space, seating capacity, and performance.
Full-size SUVs are typically characterized by their larger dimensions, greater cargo capacity, and the ability to seat more passengers compared to smaller SUV categories. These vehicles are also generally designed to provide more towing capacity and off-road capability.
In contrast, mid-size SUVs are slightly smaller in terms of dimensions and interior space. While they still offer three rows of seating and ample cargo space, their overall size and towing capacity are usually more limited than full-size SUVs.
Ford Explorer Dimensions: A Key Factor in Classification
One of the main factors in determining whether an SUV is full-size or not is its overall dimensions. Let’s look at the Ford Explorer’s dimensions in comparison to other vehicles in the full-size SUV category.
Ford Explorer Exterior Dimensions
Length: The Ford Explorer measures around 198 inches long, which places it in the upper range for mid-size SUVs but not within the typical length range for full-size SUVs, which usually exceed 200 inches in length.
Width: With a width of approximately 78.9 inches, the Explorer is comparable to many mid-size and full-size SUVs, but again, it is narrower than most full-size models, which are often around 80 inches or more.
Height: The Explorer stands at 69.9 inches tall, which is within the range for both mid-size and full-size SUVs. However, full-size SUVs often have a slightly taller profile.
Interior Dimensions: Space for Passengers and Cargo
While the exterior dimensions play a significant role in classification, interior space is also a critical factor in categorizing an SUV as full-size.
Seating Capacity: The Ford Explorer seats up to seven passengers, depending on the configuration. This is a common feature in many full-size SUVs. However, some full-size models like the Chevrolet Tahoe or the GMC Yukon can comfortably seat up to eight passengers.
Cargo Space: When it comes to cargo capacity, the Ford Explorer provides up to 87.8 cubic feet of space with the second and third rows folded. While this is generous for a mid-size SUV, full-size SUVs like the Ford Expedition or Toyota Sequoia typically offer more than 100 cubic feet of cargo space.
Passenger Comfort
Full-size SUVs tend to emphasize greater comfort for passengers, particularly in the third row. The Ford Explorer offers a third row, but it is important to note that the third-row seats in many mid-size SUVs, including the Explorer, are often considered less spacious than those found in full-size models. Taller passengers may find the third row in the Explorer to be a bit cramped compared to a true full-size SUV.
Ford Explorer Performance and Towing Capacity
Another defining feature of full-size SUVs is their performance and towing capabilities. Full-size SUVs are designed to haul larger loads, including boats, trailers, and RVs. Let’s examine how the Ford Explorer fares in this regard.
Engine Options: The Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a V6, and a hybrid engine. The base engine is a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 300 horsepower. For those seeking more power, the available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine generates up to 400 horsepower.
Towing Capacity: The Explorer’s maximum towing capacity ranges from 5,000 to 5,600 pounds, depending on the engine configuration. While this is an impressive towing capacity for a mid-size SUV, full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe can tow up to 8,400 pounds. Therefore, the Explorer falls short of the typical towing capabilities seen in full-size SUVs.
Off-Road Performance: The Ford Explorer also offers off-road capabilities, especially with its higher trims like the Explorer Timberline, which comes with rugged features like skid plates and off-road tires. However, full-size SUVs are generally designed with more robust off-road features and more ground clearance.
Is the Ford Explorer a Full-Size SUV?
Based on its dimensions, seating capacity, and performance, the Ford Explorer straddles the line between mid-size and full-size SUVs. While it offers a spacious interior with three rows of seating and impressive towing capacity, it doesn’t quite match the size and overall capabilities of traditional full-size SUVs.
Therefore, while the Ford Explorer can be considered a larger mid-size SUV, it doesn’t fully meet the criteria for being classified as a full-size SUV. It is best categorized as a large mid-size SUV due to its overall size and capabilities.
Comparison with Other Full-Size SUVs
To further illustrate the distinction, let’s briefly compare the Ford Explorer to some of the more prominent full-size SUVs on the market:
Chevrolet Tahoe
Length: 210.7 inches
Seating Capacity: Up to 9 passengers
Cargo Space: Up to 122.9 cubic feet
Towing Capacity: Up to 8,400 pounds
Engine Options: V8 engines and diesel options
Performance: More robust off-road and towing capabilities
Toyota Sequoia
Length: 205.1 inches
Seating Capacity: Up to 8 passengers
Cargo Space: Up to 120.1 cubic feet
Towing Capacity: Up to 7,400 pounds
Engine Options: V6 and hybrid options
Performance: Strong off-road performance with higher ground clearance
Why the Ford Explorer is Not a Full-Size SUV
Dimensions and Size: The Ford Explorer’s dimensions place it closer to mid-size SUVs than to true full-size models, particularly in terms of length and width.
Passenger and Cargo Space: While the Explorer offers generous seating and cargo capacity, it doesn’t quite match the expansive space typically offered by full-size SUVs.
Towing Capacity: The Explorer’s towing capacity, while impressive for its class, still falls short of the higher towing capacities found in larger full-size SUVs.
Off-Road Features: While the Explorer offers some off-road features, full-size SUVs generally provide more rugged off-road performance and higher ground clearance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Ford Explorer is best classified as a large mid-size SUV rather than a full-size SUV. It offers a spacious interior, impressive performance, and a respectable towing capacity, but it does not reach the size, cargo space, or towing capacity typically associated with full-size SUVs. If you are looking for a vehicle that offers the flexibility and comfort of a mid-size SUV but with the space and performance of a larger vehicle, the Ford Explorer may be the right choice for you. However, if you need the larger dimensions, additional passenger space, and enhanced towing capabilities that come with a full-size SUV, you might want to consider other models like the Chevrolet Tahoe or Toyota Sequoia.
