This content was aggregated from local dealer and data and insights provided by the USA Today Network Automotive Insights team using Google Gemini and the Vehicles for Sale Near Detroit marketplace writing team.
System | Engagement | Michigan Best For | Fuel Impact |
FWD | Front bias | Dry suburbs | Best mpg |
Intelligent AWD | Auto torque split | Snow/rain (95% use) | Minimal penalty |
4WD (not Explorer) | Manual low/high | Deep snow/rock crawl | Efficiency loss |
Explorer: Terrain Management (Normal/Sport/Eco/Slippery/Snow/Deep Snow/Mud/Ruts).
Engine | HP/Torque | Towing | MPG Combined |
2.3L EcoBoost I4 | 300/310 | 5,300 lbs | 24 |
3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 400/415 | 5,600 lbs | 20 |
10-speed automatic standard.
7 seats; 18.2 cu ft behind 3rd (87.8 max). Power-fold 3rd row; hands-free liftgate (XLT+).
Trim | Wheels | Audio | Unique Tech |
XLT | 18" | 6-speaker | Class II tow |
Limited | 20" | B&O 10 | 360 camera |
ST-Line | 20" black | 6-speaker | Sport suspension |
ST | 21" | B&O 14 | Brembo brakes |
Platinum | 21" | Revel Ultima 14 | Massaging seats |
Co-Pilot360: Pre-collision braking (pedestrian), lane-keeping/centering, BLIS w/trailer coverage, adaptive cruise, rear cross-traffic, auto park.
Class II (5,300 lbs): Wiring/hitch
Class III (5,600 lbs): Heavy-duty trailer package
Snow: AWD + heated triple rows
Towing: V6 pulls boats to Lake St. Clair
Family: 7 seats for Red Wings games
Commutes: Adaptive cruise on I-696
Q: AWD vs snow tires priority?
A: AWD first, snow tires amplify—Explorer handles unplowed streets.
Q: ST V6 worth mpg trade-off?
A: Yes for 5,600-lb towing and passing power.
Q: Third-row access ease?
A: Second-row tip/slide; power fold from tailgate.
Q: Platinum features justify price?
A: Revel audio/massaging seats for luxury; skip if XLT/Limited suffice.
Q: Warranty coverage?
A: 3 yr/36k basic; 5 yr/60k powertrain.
Written for https://vehiclesforsaleneardetroit.com/
By the USA TODAY Network Automotive Insights Team, in collaboration with Atchinson Ford and the Vehicles for Sale Near Detroit – Free Press Edition.
