The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited stands as a prominent SUV in its class, offering a blend of comfort, technology, and capability. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the various aspects of this vehicle, from its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior features and safety technology. Whether you're considering purchasing a used 2018 Explorer Limited or simply researching its specifications, this article aims to provide a detailed overview.
Performance and Powertrain of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited
Performance and powertrain are critical factors to consider when evaluating any SUV, and the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited offers a compelling range of options. The standard engine for the Limited trim is a 3.5-liter V6, producing 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for daily driving and highway cruising, delivering a smooth and responsive experience. For those seeking even more power, there's an available 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, which delivers 280 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This EcoBoost engine not only provides robust performance but also enhances fuel efficiency. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited also offers an optional 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, which cranks out an impressive 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This engine is reserved for the Sport and Platinum trims, offering exhilarating acceleration and towing capability. All engine options are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth and timely shifts. The transmission contributes to the Explorer's refined driving experience, making it suitable for both city commutes and long road trips. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is available in both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations. The four-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions, making it a practical choice for those living in areas with snow or inclement weather. The Intelligent 4WD system features a Terrain Management System, which allows drivers to select different modes such as Normal, Mud/Ruts, Sand, and Grass/Gravel/Snow. This system optimizes the vehicle's performance for different terrains, providing added confidence and control. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited also boasts a respectable towing capacity. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it capable of hauling trailers, boats, and other recreational equipment. This towing capability adds to the Explorer's versatility, making it a practical choice for families with active lifestyles. The suspension system of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is tuned to provide a comfortable and controlled ride. It effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, delivering a smooth and composed driving experience. The steering is precise and responsive, allowing for confident handling and maneuverability. Overall, the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited's performance and powertrain options offer a compelling blend of power, efficiency, and capability. Whether you prioritize fuel economy, towing capacity, or all-weather performance, there's a configuration to suit your needs.
Interior and Technology Features of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited
Interior and technology features are paramount in today's SUVs, and the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited excels in providing a comfortable and connected driving experience. Stepping inside the cabin, you'll find a well-appointed interior with high-quality materials and thoughtful design. The Limited trim boasts leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable steering column, ensuring both driver and passengers enjoy a luxurious ride. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited offers ample space for passengers and cargo. With three rows of seating, it can comfortably accommodate up to seven occupants. The second-row seats are easily adjustable, allowing for flexible passenger and cargo configurations. The third-row seats can be folded down to create a larger cargo area, making it practical for hauling luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is equipped with a host of technology features that enhance convenience, entertainment, and connectivity. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is an 8-inch touchscreen display, which integrates Ford's SYNC 3 system. This system offers a user-friendly interface with intuitive menus and responsive touch controls. SYNC 3 supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of smartphones for navigation, music streaming, and hands-free calling. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited also comes standard with a premium Sony audio system, delivering crystal-clear sound quality throughout the cabin. The audio system includes 12 speakers and a subwoofer, creating an immersive listening experience. Additional technology features include a navigation system, which provides turn-by-turn directions and real-time traffic updates. The navigation system is integrated into the touchscreen display, making it easy to use and follow. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited also offers a 180-degree front view camera, which provides a wide-angle view of the area in front of the vehicle. This feature is particularly helpful when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces. Other notable technology features include a dual-panel sunroof, which allows natural light to flood the cabin, and a hands-free liftgate, which makes it easy to access the cargo area when your hands are full. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited also includes a suite of driver-assist technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. These features enhance safety and provide added peace of mind on the road. Overall, the interior and technology features of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited offer a compelling blend of comfort, convenience, and connectivity. It's a well-equipped SUV that caters to the needs of modern drivers and passengers.
Safety Features and Driver-Assistance Systems in the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited
Safety features and driver-assistance systems are critical components of any modern vehicle, and the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of technologies. This SUV is designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision and to help prevent accidents from occurring in the first place. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited comes standard with a range of passive safety features, including advanced airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. These systems work together to mitigate the severity of impacts and to maintain vehicle control in emergency situations. The airbag system includes front airbags, side-impact airbags, and side-curtain airbags, providing comprehensive protection for all occupants. The anti-lock brakes prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. The stability control system helps to prevent skidding and loss of control by selectively applying brakes and reducing engine power. In addition to passive safety features, the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is equipped with a variety of driver-assistance systems. These technologies use sensors and cameras to monitor the vehicle's surroundings and to provide alerts and assistance to the driver. One of the key driver-assistance features is the blind-spot monitoring system. This system uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots and to alert the driver with a visual warning in the side mirrors. The system helps to prevent lane-change accidents by providing an early warning of potential hazards. Another important safety feature is the lane-keeping assist system. This system uses a camera to detect lane markings and to provide gentle steering inputs to help keep the vehicle within its lane. If the driver drifts out of the lane without signaling, the system will provide a warning and may apply corrective steering. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited also offers adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead. The system uses radar sensors to monitor the speed and distance of the vehicle in front and to adjust the Explorer's speed accordingly. Adaptive cruise control can help to reduce driver fatigue on long trips and to maintain a safe following distance. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited also includes a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle when backing up. The rearview camera helps to prevent accidents when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces. Other notable safety features include forward collision warning, which alerts the driver to potential frontal collisions, and automatic emergency braking, which can apply the brakes automatically to help avoid or mitigate a collision. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited has received excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings reflect the vehicle's robust construction and its comprehensive suite of safety features. Overall, the safety features and driver-assistance systems in the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited provide a high level of protection and peace of mind for drivers and passengers.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited
Fuel economy and efficiency are significant considerations for SUV buyers, and the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited offers competitive fuel ratings for its class. The actual fuel economy you experience will vary depending on your driving habits, the conditions you drive in, and the engine you choose. However, the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark for comparing the fuel efficiency of different vehicles. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited with the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine and front-wheel drive is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. This combination offers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency for everyday driving. The four-wheel-drive version of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited with the 3.5-liter V6 engine is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The slight decrease in fuel economy is due to the added weight and complexity of the four-wheel-drive system. For those seeking better fuel economy, the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited offers an optional 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. This engine is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. The EcoBoost engine provides similar fuel economy to the V6 engine in city driving but offers a slight improvement on the highway. The four-wheel-drive version of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Again, the four-wheel-drive system results in a slight decrease in fuel economy compared to the front-wheel-drive version. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited also offers a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, which is available on the Sport and Platinum trims. This engine delivers significantly more power than the other options but also has lower fuel economy ratings. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine and four-wheel drive is rated at 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. To help improve fuel economy, the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is equipped with several features. These include an aerodynamic design, which reduces drag and improves efficiency, and a six-speed automatic transmission, which optimizes engine performance for fuel economy. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited also has an Eco mode, which can be activated to further improve fuel efficiency. Eco mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel economy over performance. While the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited's fuel economy ratings are competitive for its class, they are not the highest in the segment. Some other SUVs offer better fuel economy, particularly those with smaller engines or hybrid powertrains. However, the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited strikes a good balance between fuel economy, performance, and capability. Overall, the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited provides respectable fuel economy for a mid-size SUV. The availability of different engine options allows buyers to choose the powertrain that best suits their needs and preferences.
Common Problems and Reliability of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited
Common problems and reliability are important factors to consider when purchasing any used vehicle, and the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is no exception. While the Explorer is generally considered a reliable SUV, it's essential to be aware of potential issues that owners have reported. Understanding these common problems can help you make an informed decision and ensure you're prepared for potential maintenance and repairs. One of the most frequently reported issues with the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is related to the transmission. Some owners have experienced harsh shifting, slipping gears, and other transmission-related problems. These issues can range from minor annoyances to more serious mechanical failures. If you're considering a 2018 Ford Explorer Limited, it's advisable to have the transmission thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic. Another common issue reported by owners is related to the vehicle's electrical system. Some owners have experienced problems with the infotainment system, the power windows, and other electrical components. These issues can be intermittent and difficult to diagnose, and they can sometimes require costly repairs. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited has also been subject to several recalls, including recalls related to the suspension, the fuel system, and the airbags. It's essential to check the vehicle's recall history to ensure that all necessary repairs have been performed. Recalls are typically performed free of charge by the manufacturer, so it's important to address any outstanding recalls as soon as possible. Some owners have also reported issues with the air conditioning system in the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited. These issues can include weak airflow, inconsistent cooling, and complete failure of the air conditioning system. Air conditioning repairs can be expensive, so it's important to have the system inspected if you notice any problems. In addition to these specific issues, some owners have reported general problems with the build quality of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited. These problems can include loose trim pieces, squeaks and rattles, and other minor defects. While these issues may not affect the vehicle's performance, they can be annoying and detract from the overall ownership experience. To mitigate the risk of encountering these common problems, it's crucial to have any used 2018 Ford Explorer Limited thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing it. A pre-purchase inspection can help to identify any existing problems and to assess the overall condition of the vehicle. It's also important to review the vehicle's maintenance history to ensure that it has been properly maintained. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and fluid flushes, can help to prevent many common problems and to extend the life of the vehicle. Despite these potential issues, the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is generally considered a reliable SUV. However, like any used vehicle, it's important to do your research and to be aware of the potential problems before making a purchase. By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risk of encountering issues and enjoy a positive ownership experience.
Is the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited a Good Choice?
Is the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited a good choice? This is a question that many potential buyers ask, and the answer depends on individual needs and priorities. Overall, the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling blend of comfort, technology, and capability. However, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. One of the main advantages of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is its spacious and comfortable interior. With three rows of seating, it can comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers. The Limited trim boasts leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power-adjustable steering column, providing a luxurious and enjoyable driving experience. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited also offers a range of technology features, including an 8-inch touchscreen display, a premium Sony audio system, and a suite of driver-assistance systems. These features enhance convenience, entertainment, and safety, making it a well-equipped SUV for modern drivers. Another positive aspect of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is its performance. The available engine options provide ample power for daily driving and highway cruising, and the four-wheel-drive system offers enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited also has a respectable towing capacity, making it a practical choice for families with active lifestyles. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. One of the main concerns is the reported transmission issues. Some owners have experienced harsh shifting, slipping gears, and other transmission-related problems. These issues can be costly to repair, so it's important to be aware of this potential problem. Another concern is the fuel economy of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited. While the fuel economy ratings are competitive for its class, they are not the highest in the segment. If fuel efficiency is a top priority, there may be other SUVs that are a better fit. The 2018 Ford Explorer Limited has also been subject to several recalls, which is something to consider when purchasing a used vehicle. It's important to check the vehicle's recall history to ensure that all necessary repairs have been performed. Finally, the price of the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited can be a factor for some buyers. The Limited trim is one of the higher trim levels, and it can be more expensive than other SUVs in its class. However, the added features and amenities may justify the higher price for some buyers. In conclusion, the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is a good choice for those who prioritize comfort, technology, and capability. It offers a spacious interior, a range of features, and respectable performance. However, it's important to be aware of the potential transmission issues and to consider the fuel economy and price before making a decision. Ultimately, the best way to determine if the 2018 Ford Explorer Limited is the right SUV for you is to test drive it and compare it to other models in its class.
