Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited, a mid-size SUV that's been a popular choice for families and adventurers alike. This model year brings a bunch of features and a solid reputation for reliability, making it a great option if you're in the market for a used SUV. In this review, we'll break down everything from its performance and features to what makes it stand out from the competition, and even some things to watch out for. Buckle up; it's going to be a fun ride!

Performance and Handling of the 2014 Explorer Limited

When we talk about the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited, the first thing that comes to mind is its performance and handling. Ford offered a few engine choices for this model, each delivering a unique driving experience. The base engine was a 3.5-liter V6, which provided a decent amount of power for everyday driving, perfect for those trips to the grocery store or the school run. It wasn't exactly a speed demon, but it got the job done with a reasonable balance of power and fuel efficiency.

Then there was the option for a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. This little engine packed a punch, thanks to its turbocharger. It offered a surprising amount of acceleration and responsiveness, making it a great choice if you wanted a bit more pep in your step. It was also known for its improved fuel economy compared to the V6, which is always a bonus, right? Finally, there was the top-of-the-line 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. This engine was a powerhouse, delivering plenty of horsepower and torque. It made the Explorer feel quick and capable, perfect for merging onto the highway or hauling a trailer. Speaking of hauling, the Explorer Limited had a decent towing capacity, making it a versatile option for families who like to go camping or boating.

As for handling, the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited offered a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension was well-tuned, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road without feeling overly soft. The steering was responsive and provided good feedback, making the Explorer feel confident and easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces. The Limited trim also came with a few extra features to enhance the driving experience. For example, it often included a more advanced all-wheel-drive system, which provided extra traction and stability in slippery conditions. It also had features like hill descent control, which made it easier to navigate steep inclines and declines. Overall, the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited was a pleasure to drive, offering a good balance of performance, handling, and practicality. Whether you were commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Explorer was up to the task. It's no wonder why it was such a popular choice among SUV buyers.

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

The 2014 Ford Explorer Limited offered a few engine options, each with its own pros and cons. The base engine was a 3.5-liter V6, which produced around 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, with an estimated fuel economy of around 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine was a more fuel-efficient option, with an estimated fuel economy of around 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. However, it offered slightly less power than the V6, with around 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The top-of-the-line 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 was the most powerful option, producing around 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This engine offered impressive acceleration and towing capacity, but it also came with a higher price tag and lower fuel economy. With this engine, you could expect around 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. The choice of engine depended on your needs and priorities. If fuel efficiency was your main concern, the 2.0-liter EcoBoost was the best option. If you needed more power and towing capacity, the 3.5-liter EcoBoost was the way to go. The 3.5-liter V6 was a good middle ground, offering a decent balance of power and fuel economy.

Driving Experience and Handling Characteristics

The 2014 Ford Explorer Limited delivered a comfortable and composed driving experience. The ride was smooth, thanks to a well-tuned suspension system that absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road. The steering was responsive and provided good feedback, making the Explorer easy to maneuver in both city and highway driving. The Explorer Limited came with a range of features designed to enhance the driving experience. The available all-wheel-drive system provided extra traction and stability in various road conditions. The vehicle also included features like electronic stability control and traction control, which helped to prevent skidding and loss of control. The Explorer's handling was generally predictable and controlled, making it a safe and reliable choice for families. The vehicle's high seating position provided excellent visibility, giving drivers a clear view of the road ahead. The interior was also well-designed, with comfortable seats and ample space for passengers and cargo. Overall, the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited provided a driving experience that was both enjoyable and practical, making it a great option for those seeking a mid-size SUV.

Interior and Features of the 2014 Explorer Limited

Alright, let's peek inside the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited and see what makes it special. The interior of the Explorer Limited was all about comfort and convenience, with a touch of luxury thrown in. You'll immediately notice the high-quality materials, like the leather-trimmed seats and soft-touch surfaces. These details gave the cabin a premium feel, making it a pleasant place to spend time. The front seats were supportive and comfortable, providing plenty of room for both the driver and the front passenger. The second-row seats were also spacious, easily accommodating adults, and offering enough legroom for even the longest road trips. And yes, the Explorer Limited often came with a third row, which was great for families who needed extra seating. Although, let's be honest, those third-row seats were best suited for kids or smaller adults.

Now, let's talk about the features. The 2014 Ford Explorer Limited was packed with technology and convenience features that made life easier. You'd find a touchscreen infotainment system, usually with Ford's SYNC system, which allowed you to control audio, navigation, and phone calls with ease. Some models even had a premium sound system, perfect for enjoying your favorite tunes on the go. Other features included automatic climate control, a power liftgate, and heated front seats. The Limited trim often came with a panoramic sunroof, which flooded the cabin with natural light and added to the open feel of the interior. Safety features were also a priority, with options like a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. These features helped to keep you and your passengers safe on the road, giving you peace of mind. Overall, the interior of the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited was a comfortable and well-equipped space, making it a great choice for those who value both style and functionality. It was designed to cater to the needs of families, providing a practical yet luxurious experience. Seriously, it's a great place to be!

Interior Comfort and Space

The 2014 Ford Explorer Limited offered a spacious and comfortable interior, designed to cater to both passengers and cargo. The seats, often upholstered in leather, provided ample support and were comfortable even on long journeys. The front seats offered plenty of room for the driver and passenger, while the second-row seats provided comfortable seating for adults. The Explorer Limited often included a third row, which was ideal for accommodating additional passengers or children. However, it's worth noting that the third row was generally more suitable for smaller occupants due to limited legroom. The interior design emphasized functionality, with plenty of storage compartments throughout the cabin. The center console provided space for personal items, and the door pockets offered additional storage for bottles and other essentials. The cargo area was generously sized, offering ample space for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. With the second and third rows folded down, the Explorer Limited provided an impressive amount of cargo capacity, making it a versatile option for various needs.

Technology and Convenience Features

Inside the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited, you'd find a range of tech and convenience features designed to enhance the driving experience. The centerpiece of the dashboard was usually an infotainment system, often featuring Ford's SYNC system. This system allowed drivers to control audio, navigation, and phone calls using a touchscreen display. The system was generally user-friendly, although some users found the interface to be a bit clunky at times. The Limited trim often included premium features like a Sony sound system, delivering high-quality audio throughout the cabin. Other convenience features included automatic climate control, which maintained a consistent temperature inside the vehicle, and a power liftgate, making it easy to access the cargo area. Heated front seats were also a common feature, providing added comfort during colder weather. The Explorer Limited also incorporated advanced safety technologies, such as a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. These features enhanced the vehicle's safety profile and provided drivers with added peace of mind. Overall, the technology and convenience features of the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited were designed to make driving more enjoyable and safe, making it a practical choice for modern families.

Trim Levels and Features Comparison

Alright, let's talk about the different flavors of the 2014 Ford Explorer! The Limited trim, which we're focusing on, was the top-of-the-line offering, meaning it came packed with all the bells and whistles. But it's good to know what other options were available. Ford usually offered a few other trim levels, like the base model, which was the most affordable option, and the XLT, which offered a step up in features and styling. Then came the Sport trim, which focused on a sportier driving experience, with a more powerful engine and unique design elements. But let's get back to the Limited. The Limited trim stood out with its luxurious features. It often included leather seats, a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a host of advanced technology features. The Limited trim level truly provided a more refined and upscale experience.

Comparing the trims, you'd notice a difference in the materials used, the features offered, and the overall feel of the cabin. The base model, for example, might have had cloth seats and fewer tech features, while the XLT would offer some upgrades like a power-adjustable driver's seat and a better infotainment system. The Sport trim would have sporty elements like a unique grille, blacked-out trim, and a more aggressive stance. But the Limited always had that extra touch of luxury, making it a favorite for those who wanted a premium SUV experience. One of the main reasons people chose the Limited was for its added safety features, like the blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control, which provided peace of mind on the road. Also, the Limited's inclusion of a premium sound system meant that the daily commute turned into a concert. So, if you were looking for the best of the best, the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited was the way to go. It provided a perfect blend of style, comfort, technology, and safety, making it a standout choice in the mid-size SUV market.

Comparison of Trim Levels

The 2014 Ford Explorer was available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and price points. The base model, known simply as the Explorer, was the entry-level option, offering essential features at an affordable price. The XLT trim offered a step up in features and styling, with upgrades such as a power-adjustable driver's seat and upgraded interior materials. The Sport trim focused on performance and sportier aesthetics, featuring a more powerful engine and unique design elements. The Limited trim, as discussed, represented the top-of-the-line option, offering a premium experience with luxurious features. The Limited trim came standard with leather seats, a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a range of advanced technology features. Comparing the trims, you'd notice significant differences in materials, features, and overall feel. The base model provided a more basic experience, while the XLT offered a balance of features and value. The Sport trim delivered a performance-oriented experience, and the Limited provided the most refined and upscale experience. The choice of trim level depended on individual preferences and budget. The Limited trim was the most expensive but offered the most comprehensive set of features and amenities. The other trims provided a more accessible entry point to the Explorer lineup.

Key Features of the Limited Trim

As the top-of-the-line trim, the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited was packed with a host of exclusive features. Leather seats were a standard feature, providing a luxurious feel and a comfortable seating experience. The premium sound system, often a Sony setup, delivered high-quality audio, enhancing the driving experience. A panoramic sunroof was also a key feature, allowing natural light to flood the cabin and creating an open and airy atmosphere. The Limited trim also incorporated a range of advanced technology features. These included a high-resolution touchscreen display, the Ford SYNC infotainment system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. The driver-assistance systems included features like blind-spot monitoring, which alerted drivers to vehicles in their blind spots, and adaptive cruise control, which automatically maintained a safe following distance. Other key features of the Limited trim included heated front seats, a power liftgate, and a premium interior trim. These features contributed to the overall upscale feel of the vehicle and made it a popular choice for those seeking a premium SUV experience.

Reliability and Common Issues of the 2014 Explorer Limited

Alright, let's talk about the nitty-gritty: the reliability and common issues of the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited. Generally, the Explorer has a decent reputation for reliability, but, like any car, it's not perfect. Some owners have reported issues, so it's good to be aware of them. One of the more common problems reported by owners is issues with the MyFord Touch infotainment system. This system could sometimes be buggy, with glitches or slow response times. Luckily, these issues can often be addressed with software updates. Another thing to watch out for is potential problems with the engine, especially with the EcoBoost engines. Some owners have reported issues like oil leaks or engine misfires. It's always a good idea to have any used car inspected by a trusted mechanic before you buy it, so you can catch any potential problems early on.

Other issues to consider include problems with the transmission, such as rough shifting or premature wear. The Explorer also had some electrical issues, with some owners reporting problems with the power windows, door locks, or other electronic components. It's essential to check the vehicle's maintenance history, as regular maintenance can help prevent many of these issues. Also, remember that the Explorer is a mid-size SUV, so it might experience the typical wear and tear that comes with its age and use. Check for things like worn tires, brake issues, or suspension problems. Overall, the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited has a reasonably good reliability record. It's crucial to be aware of potential problems and to inspect any used vehicle thoroughly before making a purchase. Remember, a little research and a good inspection can go a long way in ensuring a happy and reliable ownership experience.

Reliability Concerns and Potential Problems

When considering the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited, it's essential to be aware of potential reliability concerns. While the Explorer generally has a good reputation, some common issues have been reported. One of the most frequently mentioned concerns is related to the MyFord Touch infotainment system. Users have sometimes reported glitches, slow response times, and other software-related issues. Fortunately, many of these issues can be resolved through software updates. Another area of concern involves the engine, particularly the EcoBoost engines. Some owners have reported issues such as oil leaks or engine misfires. It's recommended to have any used vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify and address any potential engine problems. Additionally, some owners have reported transmission-related issues, such as rough shifting or premature wear. These problems can be costly to repair, so it's important to be aware of them. Electrical issues, such as problems with power windows, door locks, or other electronic components, have also been reported by some owners. Regular maintenance and adherence to the manufacturer's recommended service schedule can help prevent many of these issues. Checking the vehicle's maintenance history is crucial to assess how well it has been cared for and to identify any potential red flags.

Maintenance and Repair Tips

To ensure the long-term reliability of the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited, proper maintenance is crucial. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule is essential for keeping the vehicle running smoothly and preventing potential problems. Regular oil changes are vital for maintaining engine health. It's recommended to use the correct type of oil and to change it at the specified intervals. Checking and maintaining the vehicle's fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, is equally important. Ensuring that the fluids are at the correct levels and are free from contamination can help prevent damage to critical components. Regularly inspecting the tires and keeping them properly inflated can improve fuel efficiency and ensure optimal handling. Checking the tire tread depth and replacing the tires when necessary is also important for safety. Regular brake inspections are crucial for ensuring safe stopping performance. Inspecting the brake pads, rotors, and calipers regularly and replacing them when worn can help prevent accidents. Addressing any unusual noises or performance issues promptly is also crucial. Taking the vehicle to a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and repair can prevent minor issues from turning into major problems. Choosing a reputable mechanic and using quality parts can also ensure that repairs are done correctly and that the vehicle remains reliable. Finally, keeping the vehicle clean and protected from the elements can help maintain its appearance and protect against corrosion.

Is the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited a Good Buy?

So, is the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited a good buy? The answer depends on your needs and priorities. On the plus side, the Explorer Limited offers a lot of value. It's a spacious and comfortable SUV with a long list of features. It has a stylish interior, a smooth ride, and a decent amount of power, especially with the EcoBoost engines. The Limited trim is particularly attractive, with its luxurious features and advanced technology. The Explorer Limited also has a good safety rating, making it a reliable choice for families. The availability of all-wheel drive adds to its versatility, making it a good choice for various driving conditions. However, the Explorer is not perfect. It's important to be aware of the potential reliability issues and to have any used vehicle thoroughly inspected before you buy it. The fuel economy might not be the best, especially with the more powerful engines. The infotainment system can sometimes be a bit clunky, and the third-row seats are best suited for kids.

Overall, the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited is a solid choice if you're looking for a mid-size SUV that offers a good mix of comfort, features, and practicality. If you value luxury and technology, the Limited trim is particularly appealing. If you're willing to do your research, inspect the vehicle carefully, and address any potential issues, the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited can be a good buy. But, as with any used car, make sure to consider your specific needs, budget, and priorities before making a decision. Take it for a test drive, and get it checked out by a mechanic. That way, you can make an informed decision and drive away happy.

Pros and Cons Summary

To help you decide if the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited is the right vehicle for you, here's a quick summary of the pros and cons:

Pros:

• Spacious and comfortable interior with ample room for passengers and cargo.
• Wide range of features, especially in the Limited trim, including leather seats, a premium sound system, and advanced technology.
• Smooth ride and composed handling.
• Available all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and stability.
• Good safety ratings.

Cons:

• Potential reliability issues, particularly with the infotainment system and EcoBoost engines.
• Fuel economy may not be the best, especially with the more powerful engines.
• The infotainment system can sometimes be clunky and slow to respond.
• Third-row seats are best suited for children.

Final Verdict and Recommendations

In conclusion, the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited presents a compelling option in the mid-size SUV market. It offers a blend of comfort, features, and practicality, making it a strong contender for families and individuals alike. The Limited trim, with its luxurious appointments and advanced technology, enhances the overall experience. However, potential buyers should be mindful of the reported reliability issues, particularly those related to the infotainment system and engine components. It is strongly recommended to have any used vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase. If you prioritize comfort, technology, and a well-equipped interior and are willing to address potential maintenance needs, the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited can be a worthwhile investment. Evaluate your needs, budget, and driving habits to determine if the Explorer aligns with your requirements. A thorough test drive and a comprehensive inspection are crucial steps in making an informed decision. Ultimately, the 2014 Ford Explorer Limited offers a blend of features and value that can make it an excellent choice for the right buyer. Carefully weigh the pros and cons, and consider your priorities before making a final decision. Happy car hunting, folks!