Explorer Platinum vs. Limited… Does the 2.3L feel underpowered?

I’m looking at getting an Explorer Platinum, but I’m wondering if it’s worth it over the Limited trim. My biggest concern is the engine. I currently have a Mustang Ecoboost and love the power, but I’m not sure if the 2.3L will feel the same on the Explorer. Anyone have thoughts?

If the 3.0L is in your budget, go for it. If not, don’t test drive one with the 3.0L and you’ll be happy with the 2.3L.

Ellington said:
If the 3.0L is in your budget, go for it. If not, don’t test drive one with the 3.0L and you’ll be happy with the 2.3L.

Thanks for the advice! :pray:t3:

Ellington said:
If the 3.0L is in your budget, go for it. If not, don’t test drive one with the 3.0L and you’ll be happy with the 2.3L.

Good advice. I went with the 2.3L for the better gas mileage since I drive a ton every day.

@Sterling
For me, it would just be a weekend car :slightly_smiling_face:

Ellington said:
If the 3.0L is in your budget, go for it. If not, don’t test drive one with the 3.0L and you’ll be happy with the 2.3L.

Yep, that’s the best answer.

Nope, it doesn’t feel underpowered at all. My husband drives a Raptor R, and even he’s impressed when he drives my car. It’s got plenty of power!

Sterling said:
Nope, it doesn’t feel underpowered at all. My husband drives a Raptor R, and even he’s impressed when he drives my car. It’s got plenty of power!

Haha, nice to hear that! Thanks!

300 horsepower is more than what most SUVs in this segment have. I’ve watched a bunch of reviews on the ‘25 model, and they all say the 2.3L has good punch.

I had a rental with the 2.3L, and it had more than enough power. If you’re leaning towards the Platinum, it’s almost like getting a Lincoln Aviator—lots of power, super quiet, loaded with features.

Flynt said:
I had a rental with the 2.3L, and it had more than enough power. If you’re leaning towards the Platinum, it’s almost like getting a Lincoln Aviator—lots of power, super quiet, loaded with features.

Yeah, I also love the quad exhaust look :blush:

@Aki
It’s mostly for looks, though.

Flynt said:
@Aki
It’s mostly for looks, though.

True, but I still like the look!

Aki said:

Flynt said:
@Aki
It’s mostly for looks, though.

True, but I still like the look!

Nothing wrong with that! Gives off a bit of a Corvette vibe.

Aki said:

Flynt said:
@Aki
It’s mostly for looks, though.

True, but I still like the look!

Agreed! I wish all the Explorers had visible exhausts. The ones with none at all just look off.

@Sterling
The EcoBoost exhausts actually point down because of the soot. They don’t want the bumper getting all sooty like on old diesel Mercedes.

Flynt said:
@Sterling
The EcoBoost exhausts actually point down because of the soot. They don’t want the bumper getting all sooty like on old diesel Mercedes.

Oh, I don’t have EcoBoost. Was this whole thread about the EcoBoost Explorer?

@Sterling
Yep, the 2.3L is an EcoBoost engine. All sixth-gen Explorers are EcoBoost.

Flynt said:
@Aki
It’s mostly for looks, though.

Yep, makes sense haha

I’ve got a 2022 Timberline with the 2.3L. I’m not one for speed, but I do take it off-road and tow a boat and trailer often, no issues at all. Total trailer weight is just under 5,000 lbs.