Used Ford Explorer for sale nearDarlington

CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: N/A
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 39.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.9 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 170
Average Price: Around £31,000

Ford Explorer (2024-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Really good to drive	Doesn't really stand out in any way
Looks good	Touchscreen isn't the easiest to use
Very generously equipped	Some other ergonomic issues

Quick Summary

The Ford Explorer (2024-present) is a mid-sized electric SUV built on Volkswagen's MEB platform, though Ford has heavily customised the suspension, steering, and exterior design to create a distinct driving experience. Available with three battery options—52kWh, 77kWh, and 79kWh—it offers official WLTP ranges between 239 and 374 miles. The Explorer delivers impressive practicality with clever storage solutions including a hidden 'My Private Locker' behind the touchscreen and a spacious 'MegaConsole' centre cubby. With 470 litres of boot space, a flat rear floor, and generous passenger accommodation, it's well-suited for family use, though it lacks a front frunk and trails some rivals in boot capacity.

The Explorer excels dynamically, offering engaging handling and responsive steering that sets it apart from its Volkswagen and Skoda cousins. The dual-motor AWD variant delivers 335bhp and 0-62mph in 5.3 seconds, whilst the single-motor RWD is still sprightly at 6.4 seconds. Standard equipment is generous across both trim levels, including 12-way electrically adjustable heated and massage seats, LED headlamps, and a 14.6-inch SYNC Move touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the infotainment system can be frustrating to navigate, and some ergonomic quirks detract from the overall experience. Pricing starts from just under £40,000, making it competitive within its class, though rivals offer lower list prices or larger boots.

Best for: Drivers seeking an engaging electric SUV with generous standard equipment, comfortable family transport, and a more dynamic driving experience than typical competitors.

Not ideal for: Buyers prioritising maximum boot space, the simplest infotainment systems, or the lowest possible purchase price in the electric SUV segment.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the Explorer if: You want an engaging electric SUV with generous standard equipment, excellent driving dynamics, and comfortable family transport with clever storage solutions.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise maximum boot space, the simplest infotainment systems, or the lowest possible purchase price in the electric SUV segment.

Competitive Position: The Ford Explorer is a strong contender in the mid-sized electric SUV market, offering superior driving dynamics and generous standard equipment that rivals struggle to match. Whilst the Skoda Enyaq scores higher with experts and the Tesla Model Y commands a higher overall rating, the Explorer's engaging handling and thoughtful design make it a compelling choice for drivers seeking something more dynamic than typical competitors. However, it must overcome the perception that it lacks a clear unique selling point, as rivals offer lower prices, larger boots, or better-established brand recognition. For buyers prioritising driving enjoyment and comfort over headline specifications, the Explorer represents excellent value.

Read our full Ford Explorer Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.