2021 Ford Explorer XLT Interior: A Practical and Spacious Option
The 2021 Ford Explorer XLT is known for its versatility, power, and above all else, spacious interior. When shopping for an SUV, families or outdoor enthusiasts often prioritize how well a vehicle can accommodate people, gear, and everyday cargo. That’s where the Ford Explorer XLT shines. Packed with modern features, a flexible cabin design, and technology aimed at enhancing comfort and convenience, the Explorer XLT's interior aims to please. However, like any vehicle, there are a few areas where it falls short. We’ll dive deep into the details of this SUV’s interior—both the highlights and potential shortcomings.
A Welcoming Cabin
One of the first things you notice when you step into the 2021 Ford Explorer XLT is how inviting the cabin is. The soft-touch materials and the clean, uncluttered dashboard layout create a premium feel that’s not always expected in a vehicle at this price point. However, it's still not entirely luxury-level—those looking for top-tier materials will find some hard plastics, especially in the lower trim areas, which can detract from the overall premium ambiance.
Seating and Comfort
Space is the name of the game here. With three rows of seating, the Explorer XLT is ideal for families or groups who need flexibility. The first two rows offer ample headroom and legroom. Taller passengers will appreciate the generous amount of space, even in the backseat, where some midsize SUVs tend to skimp. The second-row captain's chairs (which come standard on the XLT) provide a level of comfort you wouldn’t expect from a family SUV. It’s not hard to picture a long road trip where passengers can stretch out and relax.
That said, the third-row is a bit of a squeeze for adults. It’s better suited for kids or shorter journeys. "I loved how spacious the front and middle seats were, but squeezing into that third row for longer trips isn't ideal if you're tall like me," notes Alex Collantes, an experienced automotive reviewer. For families with young children, the third row will work fine, but older kids or adults may not want to spend much time back there.
Upholstery and Finishing Touches
The Explorer XLT offers cloth seats as standard, but upgrading to the available ActiveX upholstery gives you a more upscale look without opting for full leather. The ActiveX material is not only more durable but also easier to clean—a big plus for parents with younger kids or anyone who frequently travels with pets. The stitching is neat, and while the overall aesthetic isn’t extravagant, it has a modern and sleek design that aligns well with most consumers’ tastes. However, some buyers may wish Ford had included a bit more flair in the color options. The current palette leans toward the neutral, which, while versatile, may leave some craving for more personalization.
Cargo Capacity: Plenty of Room for Adventure
A big SUV like the Explorer needs to deliver on cargo space and thankfully, the XLT does just that. With all three rows up, you get around 18.2 cubic feet of space, which is enough for groceries or a couple of weekend bags. Fold the third row down, and that number jumps to 47.9 cubic feet. For those who need even more room, folding both the second and third rows gives you 87.8 cubic feet—more than enough for larger items like bikes, camping gear, or even a small piece of furniture. The cargo area is flat, making it easy to load and unload items.
However, there’s a small drawback—the manual folding seats. While they’re not hard to manage, competitors at this price point, such as the Kia Telluride, offer power-folding options, which could be more convenient for families who frequently adjust their seating and cargo configurations.
Practical Storage Solutions
Beyond just the raw cargo space, Ford has packed the Explorer XLT with smaller storage compartments. The center console offers deep storage, perfect for keeping valuables hidden away, and there’s a handy storage tray on the dashboard for items like sunglasses or a phone. The door pockets are also sizeable, although some might find the placement awkward for reaching while driving. Cupholders are plentiful throughout the cabin, so no one will be without a place for their drink.
For those on the go, the underfloor cargo area provides even more storage flexibility. It’s perfect for stashing away smaller, less frequently used items. However, some owners have noted that the compartment can be a bit shallow, limiting what you can store there.
Technology: A Solid Mix of Modern and Practical
While the 2021 Explorer XLT isn’t packed with the high-end tech found in luxury SUVs, it still delivers a good mix of features that most drivers will appreciate. The 8-inch touchscreen with Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system is user-friendly, and the physical buttons alongside it make for a more intuitive experience. SYNC 3 is responsive and easy to navigate, whether you’re accessing Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or the in-built navigation system (optional on this trim).
That said, tech lovers might find the screen size a little small, particularly in a world where 10+ inch displays are becoming the norm, even in non-luxury vehicles. "I think Ford could have pushed the envelope a bit more with the tech in this one," Alex adds. "The screen works great but it feels a little dated compared to what you get in other SUVs at a similar price."
Audio and Connectivity
The Explorer XLT comes with a six-speaker audio system, which is fine for casual listeners but might not satisfy audiophiles. There’s an available upgrade to a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen system, which brings much better clarity and bass response—well worth considering if you love your music.
USB ports and a wireless charging pad are available to keep everyone’s devices charged, although the latter is part of an optional package. It’s a nice feature, but one that many buyers may wish was included as standard given the increasing popularity of wireless charging.
Interior Features for Convenience
The 2021 Ford Explorer XLT isn’t just about cargo space and tech—it also delivers a range of convenience features aimed at making daily life easier. The keyless entry and push-button start come standard, and the available remote start system is a great addition for those cold winter mornings.
The Tri-zone climate control lets passengers in different rows set their own temperatures, which can be a lifesaver on longer trips when not everyone agrees on how warm or cool the cabin should be. However, some users have found the controls a bit tricky to use, especially when trying to make fine adjustments while driving.
Driver Assistance and Safety Tech
Ford has packed the Explorer XLT with an impressive list of safety and driver assistance features, many of which are part of the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite. These include blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features are extremely helpful in making the Explorer feel safer and more confidence-inspiring on the road.
That said, one feature that’s missing from the XLT trim is adaptive cruise control, which is only available as part of an optional package. Given how many competitors now include this feature as standard, it feels like a bit of a miss on Ford’s part.
Final Verdict: An Excellent All-Rounder with Room for Improvement
The 2021 Ford Explorer XLT offers plenty of positives for families and adventurers alike. It’s got a spacious and practical interior, plenty of tech, and a wide array of useful features designed to make every drive more comfortable. However, it's not without its drawbacks. The third-row seating is tight, there are some hard plastics where you might expect higher-quality materials, and tech enthusiasts may find the infotainment system a bit lacking in comparison to newer competitors.
Overall, though, the Explorer XLT is a strong contender in the midsize SUV market, offering a blend of comfort, practicality, and affordability that makes it hard to overlook. "I’d recommend the Explorer XLT for families who need space but don't want to sacrifice comfort or utility," says Alex Collantes. "There are a few nitpicks here and there, but overall, it's a solid choice."
In a crowded market full of midsize SUVs, the Ford Explorer XLT manages to stand out for its roomy interior and versatile features. It might not be perfect, but it’s close enough for most families or weekend warriors looking for a vehicle that can do a bit of everything.
Pros:
- Spacious interior, especially in the first two rows
- Large cargo capacity with flexible seating configurations
- Easy-to-use SYNC 3 infotainment system
Cons:
- Third-row is tight for adults
- Hard plastics in some areas of the cabin
- Manual seat-folding mechanism