The Ford Explorer is a popular midsize SUV that offers various trim levels to cater to different needs and preferences. Two of the most sought-after trims are the XLT and Limited. While both provide excellent features and capabilities, there are significant differences between them in terms of luxury, technology, and performance. Understanding these distinctions can help potential buyers make an informed decision when choosing between the Explorer XLT and Limited models.
The XLT trim serves as a step up from the base model, offering a balance of affordability and desirable features. On the other hand, the Limited trim provides a more premium experience with additional luxury and technology features. Both trims share the same powerful engine options but differ in their standard equipment, interior amenities, and exterior styling elements.
| Feature | Explorer XLT | Explorer Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP (2024 model) | $40,570 | $47,070 |
| Standard Engine | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 300 hp |
| Seating Material | Cloth | Leather |
| Wheel Size | 18-inch | 20-inch |
Engine and Performance
Both the Ford Explorer XLT and Limited trims come standard with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four engine. This powerful turbocharged engine produces 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily driving and light towing duties. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission in both trims, ensuring smooth and efficient power delivery.
While the base powertrain is identical, the Limited trim offers an optional 3.3-liter hybrid powertrain on some model years, which is not available on the XLT. This hybrid option provides improved fuel efficiency for those seeking a more economical driving experience. Both trims are available with either rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, allowing buyers to choose based on their driving needs and local climate conditions.
In terms of towing capacity, when properly equipped, both the XLT and Limited trims can tow up to 5,300 pounds. This capability makes the Explorer suitable for hauling small trailers, boats, or campers. The Limited trim may offer additional towing-related features as standard, such as a trailer sway control system, which enhances stability when towing.
Interior Features and Comfort
The interior is where the differences between the XLT and Limited trims become more apparent. The Limited trim offers a more luxurious and feature-rich cabin compared to the XLT.
Seating and Upholstery
The XLT trim typically comes with cloth upholstery as standard, while the Limited trim upgrades to leather-trimmed seats. The Limited also offers heated and ventilated front seats as standard, whereas the XLT may only have heated front seats or offer them as an option. Additionally, the Limited trim often includes heated second-row seats, adding comfort for rear passengers.
Technology and Infotainment
Both trims feature Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display. However, the Limited trim may offer a larger 10.1-inch vertical touchscreen as an option or standard feature, depending on the model year. The Limited also includes a 12-speaker B&O sound system by Bang & Olufsen, providing superior audio quality compared to the XLT’s basic audio system.
The Limited trim typically includes a voice-activated navigation system as standard, which is often an optional extra on the XLT. Other tech features that come standard on the Limited but may be optional or unavailable on the XLT include:
- Wireless smartphone charging pad
- 360-degree camera system
- Active park assist
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality
Interior Amenities
The Limited trim offers several additional interior amenities that enhance comfort and convenience:
- Ambient interior lighting
- Power-folding third-row seats
- Hands-free, foot-activated liftgate
- Dual-zone automatic climate control (vs. single-zone in XLT)
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Exterior Styling and Features
While both the XLT and Limited trims share the same overall design, there are some notable differences in their exterior appearances and features.
Wheels and Tires
The XLT typically comes with 18-inch aluminum wheels, while the Limited upgrades to larger 20-inch premium aluminum wheels. The larger wheels on the Limited not only enhance the vehicle’s appearance but can also improve handling characteristics.
Exterior Lighting
The Limited trim often features more advanced lighting options, including:
- LED signature lighting
- LED fog lamps
- Auto high-beam headlamps
Additional Exterior Features
Other exterior elements that distinguish the Limited from the XLT include:
- Chrome exterior accents (vs. body-color on XLT)
- Satin aluminum roof rack side rails (vs. black on XLT)
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Power-folding side mirrors with auto-dimming feature
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Both the XLT and Limited trims come equipped with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite of driver assistance technologies. However, the Limited trim often includes additional advanced safety features as standard. Some of these features may be optional on the XLT or not available at all:
- Intelligent adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane centering
- Evasive steering assist
- Enhanced active park assist
- Forward sensing system
The Limited trim may also offer more sophisticated versions of certain safety features, such as an upgraded blind-spot information system with cross-traffic alert and trailer coverage.
FAQs About Ford Explorer XLT vs Limited
- Is the Ford Explorer Limited worth the extra cost over the XLT?
The Limited offers more luxury features and advanced technology, making it worth the extra cost for those seeking a premium experience. - Does the Explorer Limited have better performance than the XLT?
Both trims share the same base engine, but the Limited may offer additional powertrain options like a hybrid variant in some model years. - What are the main interior differences between XLT and Limited?
The Limited features leather seats, more advanced infotainment options, and additional comfort features like ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. - Are there any exclusive safety features on the Explorer Limited?
The Limited often includes advanced safety features like a 360-degree camera and enhanced park assist, which may not be available on the XLT. - Can I get all-wheel drive on both the XLT and Limited trims?
Yes, both the Explorer XLT and Limited are available with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations.