Recent Arrival! 2021 Ford Explorer XLT

Heres a clear breakdown of the 2021 Ford Explorer XLT what it is, its key specs, features, and what buyers and owners commonly report:
Quick Overview 2021 Ford Explorer XLT
The 2021 Ford Explorer XLT is a midsize, three-row SUV that sits above the base Explorer and below the higher trims (Limited, ST, Platinum). Its known for roomy seating (up to 7), strong performance, and a comfortable ride making it a popular family SUV choice.
Engine & Performance
•Standard engine: Turbocharged 2.3 L EcoBoost 4-cylinder
o~300 hp
o~310 lb-ft of torque
o10-speed automatic transmission
•Drive: Rear-wheel drive standard; Intelligent 4-Wheel Drive (4WD) optional.
•Towing: Up to 5,300 lbs with proper equipment (Class III tow package).
The 2.3 L engine has plenty of power for daily driving, merging, and highway cruising, while AWD helps with traction in snow or rain.
Interior & Comfort
•Seating: Typically 7 seats with second-row bench or available captains chairs.
•Standard features include:
oHeated front seats
o10-way power drivers seat
oLeather-wrapped steering wheel
oMultiple USB ports (including 2nd-row USB-A & USB-C)
oLED exterior lighting
•Infotainment: Ford SYNC 3 with an 8 touchscreen, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto integration.
Available options/packages could add features like a heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, tow package, or enhanced driver aids.
Safety & Tech
•Standard safety tech includes lane-keeping assist and a rearview camera, with optional Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist (adaptive cruise, lane-centering, traffic sign recognition) on higher packages.
Fuel Economy
•With the 2.3 L 4-cylinder and RWD: 2021 mpg city / 2728 mpg highway (AWD slightly lower).
Pros
Strong standard engine with good real-world oomph for its size.
Spacious cabin with practical seating and cargo flexibility.
Good tech support and available driver assists.
Reliability & Known Issues (Owner Reports)
Owner communities and feedback show mixed reliability experiences with the 2021 Explorer XLT:
•Some owners report trouble with the 10-speed transmissions shifting behavior or software quirks (jerky shifts or recalibration fixes).
•Others mention SYNC infotainment glitches or occasional dashboard tech issues.
•Many owners report positive experiences without major mechanical problems, especially with regular maintenance.
Note: The 2021 Explorer (various engines) was affected by recalls including a seat belt anchor defect and an engine intake valve issue affecting 2.7 L/3.0 L EcoBoost engines (mostly higher trims than the XLT).
Is It a Good Choice?
Good fit if you want:
•A roomy family SUV with three rows.
•Strong performance from the standard turbo engine.
•Modern tech and safety features with optional advanced assists.
If you want, I can compare the 2021 Explorer XLT vs similarly priced competitors like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot.


Explorer XLT, 4D Sport Utility, 2.3L EcoBoost I-4, 10-Speed Automatic, 4WD, Light Slate Cloth, Acoustic-Laminated Front Side Windows, ActiveX Captain's Chairs, Equipment Group 202A, Evasive Steering Assist, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, Heated Steering Wheel, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, LED Fog Lamps, Remote Start System, Speed Sign Recognition, Voice-Activated Touchscreen Navigation System, Wheels: 20 10-Spoke Carbonized Gray-Painted, XLT Sport Appearance Package.

All Pre-Owned vehicles at Shawnee Mission Ford in Shawnee, Kansas go thru a 120-point inspection. Quality used cars at a great price. Call 913-396-9473 to check availability.