Here’s some context: I’ve always driven SUVs (96 Chevy Blazer for 5 years, then an 09 Xterra for 8 years). Now, I’m in the mood for something with way more power—maybe it’s an early midlife crisis.
I originally wanted a Dodge Charger Scat Pack Widebody, but the insane markups make it a no-go. Plus, with it being the “Last Call” for Scat Packs, I guess I missed my chance.
So now, I’m looking at performance SUVs, especially since I have 3 kids. The Explorer ST seems to check all the boxes, even giving me a third row. While I know it’s not a Scat Pack in terms of power, will 400HP feel satisfying enough? At $60k, it’s pushing the limit of my budget. Should I just go for it or hold off and get something cheaper for now?
Any current ST owners here? Do you have regrets? Is it enough power to cure a midlife crisis?
I’ve owned a ‘91 Blazer, a ‘12 Frontier Pro4x, and a ‘22 ST (which I sold). I was in the same boat as you before buying the ST—it checks so many boxes.
Power: It’s more than enough. It’s a big SUV, so going super fast can feel a little reckless, but it’s nimble, and the power is really usable.
Fun factor: I loved driving it. The stock exhaust is quiet, but upgrading it will make a huge difference. Even something simple makes it growl.
Cons:
Fuel economy: It drinks gas like crazy. Economy mode helps, but it’s always ready to rip. I used premium gas, too, because, well… race car vibes.
Tires: The stock ones aren’t great, and finding high-performance all-weather replacements was tough.
Recalls and repairs: Mine was delayed at delivery due to recalls, and I spent way too much time going back to the dealer for fixes. Even after a year, I was still waiting on things like rear seat heater switches.
Rear diff issues: Heavy acceleration can cause problems here. There are aftermarket fixes, but you shouldn’t need them on a new car.
In the end, I reevaluated my family’s needs and decided to trade it in for a more practical PHEV. I loved the driving experience, but the time and costs added up.
If you’re leaning toward the ST, consider buying a used one. Don’t pay full price, and get an extended warranty. It’s a great SUV but can be a little temperamental, especially with the transmission and some electrical quirks.
I lease a 2023 ST, and I think it’s worth it. Sure, the infotainment system isn’t great, and adaptive cruise could be better, but the driving experience makes up for it.
It’s fast, handles well, and has plenty of space for my kid, dog, and stroller. The dual personality of this SUV is awesome—it’s quiet and calm when you need it to be and loud and fast at the press of a button.
If you’re on the fence, go take one for a test drive. You won’t regret it!
If you’re open to alternatives, look at a BMW X3 M40i or X3M. A gently used one might fit your budget, and it’ll outperform the Explorer ST. It’s not a 7-seater, but it’s worth considering.
Blake said:
If you’re open to alternatives, look at a BMW X3 M40i or X3M. A gently used one might fit your budget, and it’ll outperform the Explorer ST. It’s not a 7-seater, but it’s worth considering.
I get where you’re coming from, but the X3 isn’t even in the same category as the Explorer ST. The X5 would be a better comparison, but at that price point, I’d stick with the Explorer.
I love my 2021 ST—it’s quick, looks great, and sounds amazing after I upgraded to Borla Atak exhaust.
That said, the tech is terrible. The infotainment system is outdated and frustrating to use, and Apple CarPlay is wired only. Even worse, the ports are unreliable and keep dropping the connection. The vertical screen design is also a letdown.
It’s a fun SUV, but the tech and tire limitations are big downsides for me.
The ST ticks so many boxes: cargo space, towing, horsepower, driving experience, and looks. It does have reliability issues, so get an extended warranty if you go for it. Despite the problems, I’d still buy it again.