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2015 Ford Explorer review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Ford Explorer highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Cabin feels plush and upscale
  • Plenty of tech features for the year
  • Comfortable ride

Cons

  • Cargo space and rear legroom are lacking compared to rivals
  • It feels cumbersome behind the wheel

Mileage (EPA estimate)

16 city, 22 highway, 18 combined

Pricing for current inventory

From $17,998*

Price
Year

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All Ford Explorer years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Ford Explorer generation from 2012 to 2026

What is new for the 2015 Ford Explorer?

  • Enhanced safety features including advanced driver assistance systems now standard on all models.
  • New infotainment system with upgraded connectivity options and improved user interface.
  • Increased fuel efficiency ratings across all trims, leading to reduced operating costs.
  • Revised warranty coverage providing longer protection for powertrain components.

5 reasons to buy the 2015 Ford Explorer

1. Roomy and comfortable interior

The 2015 Ford Explorer is built with families and groups in mind. With seating for up to seven passengers and 39.8 inches of legroom in the second row and 33.8 inches in the third row, your passengers won't feel cramped during long road trips. The Explorer's seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making even the longest road trips comfortable. When it comes to cargo space, the Explorer has 21 cu-ft behind the third row, 43.8 cu-ft with the third row down, and a massive 80.7 cu-ft with all the rear seats lowered. You can haul ALL the garage sale finds!

2. Impressive towing capacity

Need to tow a boat, camper, or trailer? The Explorer can handle it. With either V6 engine and the available towing package, the 2015 Ford Explorer can tow up to an estimated maximum of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

The tow package adds additional features needed for towing, such as an engine oil cooler, trailer connectors, and a frame-mounted hitch. The Explorer lets you bring all your big toys along on your next adventure, whether it's a camping trip or a day at the lake.

3. Advanced driving features

The 2015 Ford Explorer is loaded with advanced driver assistance features that act as a copilot's second set of eyes when you're out on the road. It comes with standard features like a rearview camera and rear parking sensors, as well as available features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. That last one is phenomenal on long road trips with straight roads, as it automatically keeps a fixed distance from the vehicle in front of you.

4. Smooth and powerful engines

The 2015 Ford Explorer has three engines to meet your driving needs. The smallest is a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine with 240 horsepower, plenty of power for everyday driving. If you need more power for towing, check out the 3.5L V6 with 290 horsepower. Then there's the hot rod of the group, a turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine that cranks out 365 horsepower and enough torque to make short work of highway on-ramps. All are connected to a six-speed automatic transmission, driving the front or all four wheels. From steep hills to highway passing power, the Explorer doesn't break a sweat.

5. High-tech features

The 2015 Ford Explorer is packed with technology features that make your driving experience more enjoyable. It comes standard with Ford's SYNC® system, which allows you to control your music and make hands-free calls with voice commands. Other available features include an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a Sony® premium audio system, and a dual-panel moonroof that lets in plenty of natural light. The available power liftgate opens at the push of a button, so you don't have to fumble with unlocking and opening it when your hands are full of groceries.

Shop with your budget in mind

Getting pre-qualified lets you shop with personalized monthly payments, and it doesn't impact your credit score.

Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2015 Ford Explorer offers strong performance with smooth handling, ample interior space, and comfortable seating, appealing to families and long-distance drivers. Common praises include reliability, quiet cabin noise, and versatile ride quality. However, concerns about below-average fuel economy, technology responsiveness, and value were mentioned by some.
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Above Average

RepairPal gave the Ford Explorer an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Ford Explorer 23rd out of 32 among Midsize SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Ford Explorer

Ford Explorer features and specs

XLT 4D Sport Utility 2WD

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Fold-Away Third Row
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Air Conditioning
  • Rear Defroster
  • Side Airbags
  • Third Row Seat
  • Traction Control
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • CD Audio
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Sync System
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leather & Suede Seats
  • Leather Seats
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Quad Seats
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Sunroof(s)
  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Tow Hitch
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Rear Entertainment System
  • Navigation System

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

240

Torque (ft-lbs)

270

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

18.6

Wheelbase

112.6"

Overall length

197.1"

Width

78.9"

Height

70.4"

Leg room

F 40.6"/M 39.8"/R 33.2"

Head room

F 41.4"/M 40.5"/R 37.8"

Front tires

P245/60HR18

Rear tires

P245/60HR18

Seating capacity

7

Max towing capacity

200/2000 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2015 Ford Explorer FAQ


* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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