Top Reasons Atlanta Drivers Choose Pre-Owned Ford Explorers

A used Ford Explorer offers an ideal blend of rear-wheel-drive dynamics, generous three-row seating, up to 5,000 lbs of towing capability, and advanced standard safety features at a more affordable option than a brand-new SUV. Buying pre-owned allows Georgia drivers to secure high-value configurations equipped with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine or available Intelligent 4WD without taking the initial new-vehicle depreciation hit.

Driving a pre-owned three-row SUV across northern Georgia requires a vehicle that handles daily highway traffic and weekend trips with equal ease. The sixth-generation Explorer features a rear-wheel-drive architecture that delivers balanced weight distribution and controlled handling along Interstate 285 or through rolling suburban terrain. Under the hood, the standard turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine produces 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque through a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy remains efficient for a mid-size three-row vehicle, achieving an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city / 29 mpg* highway in rear-wheel-drive models and 20 mpg city / 27 mpg* highway when equipped with Intelligent 4WD.

Selecting a pre-owned model gives shoppers access to modern amenities and confidence-inspiring driver-assist features while keeping ownership costs manageable. Standard safety technology on recent model years includes Ford Co-Pilot360, which equips the vehicle with Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control. Families searching for a versatile SUV with solid tech integration and strong resale value will feel right at home behind the wheel of a pre-owned Explorer.

At Wade Ford, our team focuses on transparent pricing and straightforward communication so you can explore at your own pace. If you are comparing your options or looking for a versatile family vehicle, we invite you to stop by our dealership location at 3860 South Cobb Drive, Smyrna, GA 30080 or call us at 866-847-5880 to speak with a representative.

Can a Used Ford Explorer Safely Tow a Mid-Size Camper or Boat?

The factory Class III Trailer Tow Package boosts a used Ford Explorer's towing capacity to between 5,000 lbs and 5,600 lbs, making it suitable for mid-size campers and boats. Models powered by the 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine pull up to 5,300 lbs, while configurations featuring the twin-turbo 3.0L EcoBoost V6 reach the maximum 5,600 lbs rating, easily handling pop-up campers, travel trailers under 24 feet, and ski boats.

Achieving a safe and comfortable towing experience depends on the powertrain configuration and factory equipment installed on the vehicle. Pre-owned models equipped with the Class III Trailer Tow Package include a frame-mounted receiver hitch, four-pin and seven-pin wiring harnesses, an engine oil cooler, and a specialized trailer sway control system. Trailer sway control works in tandem with AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control to selectively apply individual brakes and adjust engine torque if trailer movement is detected, keeping the rig steady on highway stretches.

When evaluating towing needs, calculating gross combined weight ratings and tongue weight is critical for maintaining vehicle stability. Standard rear-wheel-drive configurations provide strong initial traction when launching a boat ramp, while Intelligent 4WD models offer Terrain Management System selectable drive modes—including a dedicated Tow/Haul mode that alters transmission shift points to prevent gear hunting under heavy loads.

Our sales team regularly notes that buyers inspecting pre-owned models want to check the factory receiver hitch setup and verify integrated trailer wiring before taking a test drive. Compared to front-wheel-drive crossovers, the Explorer's longitudinal engine layout and rear-drive bias offer superior pull stability on steep inclines. To see how this capability compares against rival three-row crossovers, review our detailed Ford Explorer comparison against the Chevrolet Traverse. For deeper specification details on individual model years, visit our Ford Explorer model research page, or explore protected purchase options within our Ford certified pre-owned program overview.

Which Used Ford Explorer Trim Offers the Best Value Between XLT and Limited?

The XLT trim delivers the best overall purchase value for many shoppers by including essential comforts like heated front seats and a power liftgate, while the Limited trim justifies its higher tier by adding genuine leather seating, ventilated front seats, heated second-row seating, a 12-speaker B&O sound system, and 20-inch alloy wheels.

Understanding the equipment progression across pre-owned Explorer trims helps shoppers select the exact balance of luxury and affordability for their daily drives. The XLT trim serves as the benchmark popular trim in the pre-owned market. It builds upon base equipment by adding an 8-way power driver's seat, keyless entry with push-button start, tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen running SYNC 3, and second-row captain's chairs or a bench seat.

Upgrading to the Limited trim elevates cabin luxury and technology significantly. The interior receives perforated leather upholstery, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-folding third-row seats, ambient lighting, and wireless device charging. Driver-assist capabilities on the Limited trim are expanded with Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, adding Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering, and Evasive Steering Assist.

To calculate how much equity you can apply toward your purchase, check your current vehicle's estimated worth using our online trade valuation tool before shopping the lot.

How Spacious Is the Ford Explorer Interior for Family Seating and Safety Seats?

The Ford Explorer interior provides passenger seating for six or seven people with 32 inches of third-row legroom, up to 86 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, and about 16 cubic feet of dedicated cargo space behind the third row when all seats are upright. Installing child safety seats is straightforward thanks to accessible LATCH lower anchors and top tethers across the rear seating positions.

Passenger space and cabin flexibility make the pre-owned Explorer a practical option for growing households. Second-row seating is available as either a three-passenger 35/30/35 split-bench or dual captain's chairs. Second-row captain's chairs feature a center aisle that allows kids to step directly into the third row without folding seats. Ford's E-Z Entry second-row seats slide forward at the touch of a button, clearing a wide entry path even when passengers are loading gear into the back.

For families with young children, child safety seat installation meets strict safety recommendations:

• Second-Row LATCH Access: Two full sets of LATCH connectors (lower anchors and top tethers) are integrated into the outboard second-row seats, offering clear insertion points for rear-facing infant carriers and forward-facing convertible seats.
• Third-Row Tether Anchors: Top tether anchors are positioned on the third-row seatbacks, allowing secure forward-facing child seat installations in the rear.
• Rear Seat Clearance: The cabin provides 43 inches of front legroom and generous second-row shoulder room, ensuring front passengers do not need to push their seats uncomfortably forward when a rear-facing seat is installed behind them.

With all rear seats folded flat, the cargo floor accommodates up to 31 carry-on suitcases or large household items. When compared to class rivals, the Explorer provides greater third-row legroom than the Toyota Highlander, which offers 28 inches of legroom in its third row. To evaluate these dimensions side-by-side, read our Ford Explorer versus Toyota Highlander comparison.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety and driver-assistance features by trim

All trims, except for the Utility Police Interceptor 4x4, come standard with ABS, telematics advanced auto collision notification, Isofix preparation, and height adjustable front and rear head restraints. The rear seats have two height adjustable head restraints, except for the ST-LINE 4WD, ST-LINE RWD, and Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 trims, which have three. Third-row seats in all trims except the Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 include two height adjustable head restraints.

Safety belts are standard across all trims for front seats (driver and passenger) with pre-tensioners and adjustable heights. Rear and third-row seats (driver and passenger positions) also come equipped with seat belts as standard in every trim.

Most trims have millimeter-wave sensor distance and object sensing technology, emergency call, accident data recorder, anti-collision systems that activate brake lights, automatic emergency braking, and driver monitoring as standard features. The Utility Police Interceptor 4x4 does not include these.

The Active 4WD, Active 4WD 100A, Active RWD, and Active RWD 100A trims uniquely feature anti-collision system braking at low speed on the front, while this feature is not available on the other trims.

Common Questions About Buying a Used Ford Explorer at Wade Ford

Choosing a pre-owned SUV at Wade Ford gives you access to thoroughly inspected vehicles, transparent history documentation, and flexible financing solutions tailored to your household budget. Our team simplifies the vehicle search so you can explore at your own pace and drive home with complete peace of mind.

Q: What are the most reliable model years to look for when buying a used Ford Explorer?

Model years 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023 stand out as strong choices on the pre-owned market. The 2018 and 2019 models represent the refined final years of the fifth generation, while 2022 and 2023 models benefit from production updates made after the sixth-generation redesign in 2020. Choosing these years gives buyers proven mechanical reliability and updated tech features.

Q: What fuel economy can you expect from a 2.3L EcoBoost Ford Explorer?

A pre-owned Explorer powered by the turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost engine achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city / 29 mpg* highway in rear-wheel-drive configurations. Models equipped with Intelligent 4WD achieve 20 mpg city / 27 mpg* highway. Real-world highway driving consistently aligns with these ratings during long highway trips.

Q: How long can a Ford Explorer last with regular maintenance?

With routine engine oil changes, timely transmission fluid services, and proper maintenance, a Ford Explorer can comfortably reach 200,000 miles or more. Ford's EcoBoost engines and SelectShift transmission components are built for durability when serviced according to recommended manufacturer schedules.

Q: Are second-row captain's chairs standard or optional on used Ford Explorers?

Second-row captain's chairs are standard on higher trims like the Limited, ST, and Platinum, reducing seating capacity from seven to six passengers while improving third-row access. On XLT trims, captain's chairs were a popular factory option, meaning you can find both six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations in our pre-owned inventory.

Q: What documents should you bring when applying for auto financing at Wade Ford?

When applying for auto financing, bringing a valid driver's license, your most recent pay stubs or proof of income, a current utility bill for address verification, and proof of auto insurance speeds up the approval process. Bringing these items allows our finance team to secure current financing information.

When you are ready to take the next step, our team is here to help you navigate financing, evaluate your trade-in, and select the pre-owned Ford Explorer that fits your lifestyle. Feel free to visit our showroom location in Smyrna, give our team a call at 866-847-5880, or start your paperwork from home by filling out an online finance application. Schedule your hassle-free test drive today or Chat with our experts online anytime to explore our inventory.

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^*All mileage is EPA estimated.