Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT – a popular SUV that's been cruising around for a while now. The Ford Explorer has always been a big deal, and the XLT trim is one of the more common versions you'll see. But is the 2013 model still worth a look in today's market? Let's break it down and see if this SUV has what it takes. We'll look at the good, the bad, and everything in between, giving you a comprehensive Ford Explorer 2013 XLT review to help you decide if it's the right ride for you.

The Ford Explorer Legacy

Before we get into the specifics of the 2013 model, it's worth taking a quick look at the Ford Explorer's history. The Explorer has been a staple in the SUV world for decades. The Ford Explorer was one of the first SUVs that became mainstream. It was a go-to choice for families and adventurers alike. Over the years, Ford has made a lot of changes, evolving the Explorer from a rugged, body-on-frame SUV to a more modern, crossover-based design. The 2013 model falls into this newer generation, meaning it has a more car-like feel on the road. This shift improved fuel efficiency and offered a smoother ride, making it a solid choice for everyday driving.

With its spacious interior, the Ford Explorer quickly became a favorite for families. It was the perfect vehicle for taking everyone to school, sports practices, and weekend getaways. The Explorer's popularity led to numerous trims and features, including the XLT. The XLT trim has always represented a balance of value and features, making it a popular choice. The 2013 model aimed to keep this tradition alive, offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and performance that appealed to a wide range of drivers. This generation was a significant step for Ford, bringing updated technology and design. This made it a competitive option in a crowded SUV market.

Now, let's look at the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT and see how it stacks up against the competition and what makes it a good buy, even today. We're going to cover everything from its performance and features to its reliability and overall value. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear idea of whether this SUV fits your needs.

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what it's like to actually drive the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT. Under the hood, you've got a few engine options, but the XLT usually comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine delivers around 290 horsepower, which is plenty of pep for daily driving and highway cruising. You'll find it can handle merging onto the highway and passing other cars without any issues. The V6 offers a good balance of power and efficiency, making it a practical choice for various driving needs. The Explorer also features a six-speed automatic transmission, which generally provides smooth gear changes and contributes to a comfortable driving experience.

The 2013 Explorer XLT rides well, especially for an SUV of its size. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. This makes it a great choice for long road trips and navigating city streets. The steering is responsive, although it might not feel as sporty as some other SUVs. The emphasis is on comfort and ease of use, making it simple to maneuver in tight spots and park. The Explorer also offers available all-wheel-drive (AWD), which is a huge plus if you live in an area with snowy or icy conditions. AWD enhances traction and stability, giving you more confidence in challenging weather. Even without AWD, the Explorer handles well in most driving situations.

Fuel economy is a key consideration for many buyers. The 2013 Ford Explorer XLT gets decent gas mileage for an SUV of its size. You can expect to get around 17-18 miles per gallon in the city and 23-24 miles per gallon on the highway. These numbers are pretty standard for this class of vehicle. While not the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, the Explorer's fuel economy is manageable for everyday driving. The fuel tank capacity is also reasonable, meaning you won't have to fill up too often, even on longer trips. Overall, the driving experience of the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT is positive, offering a blend of power, comfort, and practicality that makes it a great option for various drivers.

Interior and Features

Now, let's step inside and explore the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT's interior. The first thing you'll notice is the spaciousness. The Explorer is known for its roomy cabin, and the XLT trim doesn't disappoint. You have plenty of head and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are comfortable, especially for longer drives. The materials used in the interior are generally of good quality, though they may not be as luxurious as some higher-end SUVs. You can expect durable cloth upholstery and a functional dashboard design. The XLT trim often includes features like power-adjustable front seats, which add to the comfort and convenience.

The Explorer XLT comes with a range of features to make your driving experience more enjoyable. Standard features include air conditioning, a sound system with a CD player and MP3 capability, and a decent infotainment system. You'll also find power windows and locks, cruise control, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. These features contribute to a comfortable and convenient driving experience. The infotainment system includes a display screen, which allows you to control audio and other vehicle functions. Ford's SYNC system, if equipped, provides hands-free calling and music streaming capabilities. This is a practical and user-friendly system, even by today's standards. Upgrading to a model with the optional features can add even more value.

One of the Explorer's best features is its cargo space. With the rear seats up, you get a generous amount of cargo room, which is ideal for groceries, luggage, or everyday items. If you need more space, you can fold down the second and third-row seats, opening up a massive cargo area. This versatility makes the Explorer a great choice for families, offering plenty of room for all your gear. The Explorer also includes various storage compartments and cup holders throughout the cabin, which adds to the practicality of the vehicle. Overall, the interior of the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT is well-designed, functional, and comfortable, making it a great choice for families and anyone who needs a spacious SUV.

Reliability and Common Issues

When considering a used car like the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT, reliability is a major factor. While the Explorer is generally a reliable SUV, it's essential to be aware of some common issues that can arise. The Ford Explorer has a solid reputation, but like any vehicle, it can have its share of problems. Regularly scheduled maintenance is very important. This ensures your Explorer stays in top shape. Pay attention to the recommended service intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, and other routine maintenance tasks. Addressing these issues can help prevent bigger problems down the road.

One of the more common issues with the 2013 Explorer XLT is the potential for transmission problems. Some owners have reported issues with the transmission, such as rough shifting or complete failure. While not all Explorers experience these problems, it is something to consider. Regular transmission maintenance, including fluid changes, can help prevent or mitigate these issues. Another area to watch out for is the electrical system. Some owners have reported issues with the vehicle's electrical components. This can include problems with the infotainment system, power windows, or other electronic features. Checking these functions during a pre-purchase inspection can help you identify any potential problems before you buy.

Despite these potential issues, the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT generally receives good reliability ratings. Many owners report years of trouble-free driving. Performing regular maintenance and addressing any issues promptly can help ensure your Explorer remains reliable. The best way to make sure the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT is the right vehicle for you is by considering its history. Inspecting a vehicle's history, checking for any reported accidents, and reviewing its service records can give you a better idea of its reliability. Checking for recalls is also important. Ford often issues recalls to address potential safety issues, so checking for any outstanding recalls is a must. By taking these steps, you can increase your chances of finding a reliable 2013 Ford Explorer XLT that meets your needs.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for most car buyers, and the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT has a good array of safety features. The Explorer comes equipped with a comprehensive set of standard safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. These features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), which help prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, allowing you to maintain steering control. It also includes electronic stability control (ESC), which helps to maintain vehicle stability, especially in slippery conditions. Airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, provide crucial protection in the event of a collision. These airbags are strategically placed throughout the cabin to minimize the risk of injury.

In addition to these standard features, the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT offers several optional safety features that enhance protection. Some models may be equipped with a rearview camera, which makes backing up and parking much easier. This is a very useful feature, especially in a larger SUV. Another available feature is blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, improving safety during lane changes. Some Explorers may also feature rear cross-traffic alert, which warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. These advanced features provide an added layer of safety. This makes the Explorer XLT a competitive choice in its class.

The 2013 Ford Explorer XLT received good safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings indicate the vehicle's performance in crash tests. This ensures your safety in the event of a collision. The Explorer's strong safety ratings, combined with its standard and optional safety features, make it a safe and reliable choice for families. This gives you peace of mind while driving. Overall, the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT offers a solid combination of standard and optional safety features. This makes it a secure SUV for daily driving and family adventures.

Pros and Cons of the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT

Let's break down the pros and cons of the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT to give you a clear overview. The good stuff first! On the plus side, the Explorer XLT offers a spacious and comfortable interior, making it great for families and anyone who needs plenty of room. It provides a smooth ride, and the V6 engine delivers sufficient power for most driving needs. It is also packed with plenty of standard features. It often includes features like power-adjustable front seats, which add to the comfort and convenience. The Explorer also boasts good safety ratings, and the availability of all-wheel drive is a big plus for those who live in areas with inclement weather.

Now, let's talk about the downsides. One of the main cons is the potential for transmission issues. While not all models experience problems, it's something to be aware of and consider during a pre-purchase inspection. While the 2013 Explorer XLT gets decent gas mileage for an SUV, it's not the most fuel-efficient option. Some owners might find the infotainment system to be a little outdated compared to more modern vehicles. The styling is subjective, but some may find the design to be a bit bland. While the Explorer offers plenty of cargo space, the third-row seats can be a bit cramped for adults. It is best suited for kids. Consider that the reliability of a used vehicle can vary depending on its history and maintenance. It is always wise to have a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic.

Here’s a quick summary:

Pros:

• Spacious and comfortable interior
• Smooth ride
• Good safety ratings
• Available all-wheel drive

Cons:

• Potential for transmission issues
• Fuel economy is average
• Infotainment system may feel outdated
• Third-row seating can be cramped

Should You Buy a 2013 Ford Explorer XLT?

So, after all this, should you buy a 2013 Ford Explorer XLT? The answer depends on your specific needs and priorities. The Ford Explorer remains a solid choice. If you need a spacious, comfortable, and versatile SUV for family use or daily driving, the Explorer XLT is worth considering. Its blend of features, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel drive make it a practical choice. The good safety ratings add to its appeal. If you're looking for a vehicle with lots of cargo space, the Explorer has plenty of room, especially with the rear seats folded down. If you need a vehicle that can handle snowy or icy conditions, the availability of all-wheel drive is a big plus.

However, there are a few things you should consider before making a purchase. If fuel efficiency is a top priority, you might want to look at other options. Be prepared to address potential transmission issues, and be sure to have the vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before buying it. Evaluate the vehicle's history, check for any reported accidents, and review its service records. If you want the latest technology and the most advanced features, you might find the infotainment system a bit outdated. Ultimately, the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT offers a good balance of features, space, and performance. Doing your research, inspecting the vehicle thoroughly, and considering your driving needs will help you decide if it’s the right SUV for you. Think about what you need from your vehicle, and compare the Explorer XLT to other options in its class. Then you will be able to make an informed decision.