2023 Ford Explorer vs. 2023 Kia Tour

1. Introduction

This review is purely made from a public car reviewer without any intervention or changes between these two cars of the real versions. And remember, it is made in a general consideration of the cars without imposing any of these cars as the reviewer's most favorite car. [1][2][3][4][5][6] Learn More about the 2023 Ford Explorer vs. 2023 Kia Tour

First, there will be a brief explanation of these two cars' general features, and then the discussion will be continued by comparing the engine performance and other aspects like safety, interior, and environment. The essay slightly bends on a point that determines such a car is the 'right' car for this fast-paced world and more likely to be the 'right' car for you as the one who is looking for a great value of a purchase. This small crossover of issues is finalized by explaining the reasons and making a conclusion which are the most feasible of consideration.

This vehicle review aims to provide information about the 2023 Ford Explorer and 2023 Kia Tour, which are both model cars of the same SUV class. There are several issues addressed: the similarities and differences between these two cars, which one is more likely to be chosen, and the reasons supporting it. It is very essential to compare these two cars since they belong to the same class and don't have a very far price. It would be quite helpful for the consumer of these cars to determine which car is the most suitable for them and their family.

2. Performance and Power

The Kia Sorento, on the other hand, has a 2.5L inline-4 GDI engine capable of producing 191 horsepower. L and LX trims only have a standard 2WD available with no towing capacity. The EX and SX trims have an available 2.5T GDI engine producing 281 horsepower. Once again, all SX models are the top of the line SUVs and have an available X-Line package. This package adds a more rugged exterior to the vehicle and an additional 20mm of ground clearance. The only downside is that it is a stepped AWD and thus does not come with the same towing capacity as regular AWD. A maximum towing capacity of 1500kg means the AWD is quite acceptable for the EX or SX models, but once again the L and LX buyers are left wanting more.

The 2023 Ford Explorer has three possible engines available, depending on the buyer's needs. The standard engine is a 2.3L inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower. On the higher end, there is a 3.0L V6 engine available, getting 365 horsepower. The king of the Canadian market, however, is the ST model. The 2023 ST model now comes with a 400hp 3.0L V6 EcoBoost engine. It goes without saying that with the extra 100hp, the ST model is the most fun to drive out of the trims. Expanding on the engine selection, an ST-Line Sport Appearance package is now available as an extra for XLT buyers, but the extra flash comes with no additional performance perks. Finally, and quite possibly most importantly, the Ford Explorer has a trailer towing capacity of 2,540 kg. This makes it an optimal choice for pulling a trailer, boat, or ski-doo.

2.1. Engine Specifications

The Ford Explorer makes available four powertrains and includes a new 2.3L 4-cylinder as a common engine. Ford has also introduced a hybrid and a 3.0L V6 engine. The base engine offers the power of 300 bhp. The standard platform of the engine is rear-wheel drive, where it could be replaced from customer into all-wheel drive. In contrast to the Korean competitor, the Kia Telluride is offered only in V6 standard. Fuel economy figures for the 2023 Explorer Hybrid have not yet been revealed, but Ford has said it expects a 500-mile maximum driving range. This would be around 25-28 mpg, better economy than the standard V6 engine. The base engine will make the Explorer highly competitive with other 3-row crossovers, some of which are larger but all of which use more fuel. The 35 mpg combined figure would be excellent and a major improvement over the outgoing generation, but the new figures will roughly be similar to the industry average of a 33 mpg combined rating in a midsize sedan. The Hybrid Explorer should offer easier efforts of reaching A to B, having the extra torque of the electric motor, which will make fuel economy in town significantly better than highway driving compared to non-hybrid models. The 3.0L V6 engine will offer more power and towing capacity and have the Platinum platform with all the premium specs. This engine is expected to be offered across the Ford Performance range (ST/RS), where a higher state of tune and twin-turbo setup would be provided. The configurability of the powertrains offers customers a wide selection to optimize performance, fuel economy, or towing capacity. Ford has made a bounty of information available for the new model's tow ratings with each powertrain, including a wide range of trailer and hitch types. This clarifies what customers can expect as Explorer has a maximum 5600 lbs payload, putting it at the top end of tow ratings in the midsize SUV class. Stepless active shift controls will also allow customers to hold the gear they desire when towing.

2.2. Acceleration and Top Speed

Both SUVs have created models with superior performance capabilities. In the case of the Ford Explorer, the Sport and Platinum models are engineered to reach faster acceleration speeds and higher top speeds. This is achieved by the use of a 3.5L Ecoboost engine on the Sport model, which provides the same 365 horsepower rating but a higher 380 lb-ft of torque. This will allow the Sport model to reach its acceleration at a faster rate than the base model Explorer. This is further enhanced again with the Platinum edition which uses the same 3.5L Ecoboost engine, however, this time rated at 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, in comparison to the base Ecoboost engine that provides the same horsepower but 17 lb-ft more torque. The aim is for the Platinum model Explorer to reach a class-leading power in acceleration and top speed. As a result of this, a fair comparison can be made with the Kia Tour’s top-end GT SXL model which hosts a 3.3L V6 engine compared to the standard 2.0L Turbo on all other models. This engine generates an awesome 290 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque from the standard engine, providing acceleration timings that are significantly quicker than the base model and a higher top speed.

The two SUVs also differ significantly in terms of acceleration and top speed. The Ford Explorer is powered by a 3.0L V6, which pumps out 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. This allows it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in approximately 6.8 seconds. Furthermore, with an electronically limited top speed of 125 mph, the Explorer exhibits clear performance capabilities. In contrast, the Kia Tour is propelled by a 3.3L V6 engine with a much lower horsepower rating of 290. This indication is certainly visible as the Tour takes approximately 7.6 seconds to reach from 0-60 mph. However, the Tour does well with acceleration in its class and maintains a similar level of agility to competitor vehicles. The Tour also approaches an electronically limited top speed of 124 mph, however this is less significant as the vehicle would rarely operate at these speeds.

3. Features and Technology

The Kia Tour has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the Ford Explorer only offers them wired. The Kia Tour has an LED exterior lighting option and a panoramic sunroof. The Ford Explorer has neither feature. The Ford has heated rear seats, whereas the Kia Tour only offers heated front seats. A clear advantage for the Kia is second-row seats that include a USB port for the bottom cushion. This option is available on both vehicles, but the Kia Tour has second-row captain's chairs that by default create a center aisle. The second-row seats of the Ford Explorer only come in the bench option. Both vehicles offer a Bose sound system, but the Kia Tour includes 12 speakers, as opposed to the 2023 Ford Explorer that only has 10. Overall, the Kia Tour features higher quality speakers based on the sound system and speaker brand.

3.1. Interior Features

The Explorer comes with standard 2nd-row captain chairs to make the trip to the third row easier and gives an option of bench or captains on the XLT model. The 3rd row of the Explorer is a bit cramped but is manageable for adults on short trips. The Tour has plenty of space for the 1st and 2nd-row passengers. The lack of a 3rd row makes the cargo area more than sufficient for the Tour. The Explorer has 87.8 cubic feet of space with 2nd and 3rd rows folded, 47.9 cubic feet of space with only the 3rd row folded, and a mere 18.2 cubic feet of space behind the 3rd row. The Tour has 101.9 cubic feet of space behind the 1st row, 46.4 cubic feet behind the 2nd, and just 12 cubic feet behind the 3rd.

The interior is one of the most important aspects to most people when considering purchasing a new car, so getting a lay of the land for the two competitors is important. The Ford Explorer offers 3 seating rows and can be equipped with either 6 or 7 seats depending on whether the 2nd row is a bench or two individual captain seats. The interior of the Explorer is posh with lots of soft-to-the-touch material and nice detailing. The dash is anchored by an 8 or 10.1-inch touch screen, the instrument cluster is all digital, and a centrally mounted rotary shifter to free up space. Though this may take some getting used to, it may be a nice feature in the long run. The Tour has two seating rows and holds a maximum of 5 people. It has a nice upscale interior for an SUV in this price range. The dash is also anchored by an 8-inch touch screen. Kia avoids multiple trim levels and options by equipping every Tour with push-button start, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and 2 type A USB ports.

3.2. Safety and Driver Assistance Systems

Next, it has a new security system to prevent the car from being stolen. The SecuriLock is a passive anti-theft system and engine immobilizer. Pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking are key to having a safe car. Ford equipped the Explorer with these features as standard. At higher trim levels, it is equipped with forward sensing that has the same function but is limited to detecting frontal collisions with other vehicles. It alerts and prepares the brakes. If the driver's response is too slow or there is no response, it will automatically brake to prevent the collision. Kia offers the same features with the Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist as standard from the lowest trim. According to the IIHS test, this feature has a superior rating on vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian detection.

This is one of the most important parts of the new car safety. We start with the Explorer, which is equipped with features that Ford brand said are their most standard equipment. The rear camera is inevitable, but now they're more concerned with sharper and better graphics. The rear view can now capture video and an image. At higher trim levels, it has an automatic reverse braking system. So, when a collision with another object is detected, it will automatically brake to prevent further accidents.

3.3. Infotainment and Connectivity Options

More latest connectivity functions found in the Kia include access to Kia Connect, a new feature for Uvo customers. This handheld cellphone app allows customers to access remote start, door lock, and weather settings along with other functions without a subscription. These equivalent functions are found in the FordPass app and assistance can be free for 365 days. Uvo customers are also offered 100,000 free miles of telematics connectivity which includes functions such as notification of vehicle history (engine, airbag, etc.) and upcoming maintenance, plus access to the Uvo call center for help. On the Ford, all these functions will come standard with the help of the FordPass Connect system which includes the option of an optional usage-based LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and remote start. Like Kia, Ford app access will include functionality of unlocking, locking, and weather control with a modern phone system. Coming years are showing the crossover has become a hotspot for new technology and infotainment in order to enhance functionality, connectivity, and entertainment for the driver and passengers. [7]

Both vehicles provide lots of multimedia alternatives. In the Kia, a 10.3-inch touchscreen is customary and comes with Sirius XM radio, navigation, in addition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional premium Harman Kardon audio system may be added that has 12 speakers and a subwoofer. Ford also includes a 10.3-inch display, but a sound system is an optional upgrade from the standard 6 speaker stereo. Navigation, handheld cellphone to vehicle, Sirius XM, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can also be seen on the Explorer. The most important distinction between the models is the appearance of their displays. The Ford display is attached to the driver side of the crossover and raises out of the dashboard instead of being homogeneous to the rest of the dash. The sticking out display can be undesirable for some because it has a higher risk of being knocked/damaged as it does not settle in the dash. In contrast, the Kia's screen is completely integrated into the dash for a sleeker and less obtrusive look.

4. Price and Value

Regardless of the way that the base worth gains ground of to some extent more than $30,000 is undeniably a full-size adventure vehicle, the Explorer keeps a pleasant sticker in relationship with the resistance. The fundamental game plan 2023 Ford Explorer XLT with RWD has a base expense of $32,765 and other RWD base models can be had for constantly with just a little headway in MSRP. Picking AWD adds $2,000 to the lower a couple of trim levels. Mid-level forms, for instance, the $35k Limited or the sporty $36,985 Sport models strike a respectable concordance between gear levels and cost. The best end Platinum trim definitely starts to get extreme with a base expense of $53,085, yet no issue the sum you spend Explorer has options and a prior mentioned assessed V8 rivals.

The smaller of the Explorer's two new powertrains is the noteworthy 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbo-four powertrain. While the entire powertrain lineup of the Explorer hasn't been point by point, we comprehend the 2.3-liter is dear to the obsolete 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 open in the present Explorer, while the 3.0-liter twin-turbo will doubtlessly be the substitution for the current 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. A ten-speed modified transmission will be obligatory. Both AWD and RWD strategies will be open. Full scale power yield for the 2.3-liter is 300 drive and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the 3.0-liter has been attested at cycle 365 draw and 380 lb-ft of torque. MPG figures have not been conveyed at this point.

4.1. Base Price and Trim Levels

2023 Ford Explorer is a full-size crossover sport-utility vehicle with models offered in base, XLT, Limited, and Sport trim levels. A new SportTrac Adrenalin rendition of the Explorer is accessible also. Kia Tour 2023 is another hybrid sport-utility with a unibody development. It is accessible in LX, EX, and SX trim levels. The base element is superior to the norm, and an all-wheel drive form is accessible all through the line. The base Explorer comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, while the Tour LX comes standard with 16-inch composite wheels. The base Tour additionally offers a force driver's seat, atmosphere control, and a CD player which are alternatives not offered on the base Explorer. At the point when examining base models, the Tour is just more costly by a couple of hundred dollars. At the point when value contrasting is highest rated trim levels with all choices included, the Tour essentially becomes more affordable than a comparably prepared Explorer. This is generally a direct result of the Tour's serious evaluating on all alternatives and the more significant level of choice bundle accessibility.

4.2. Warranty and Maintenance

For both vehicles, factory warranty coverage is more in depth than its Kia Sorento platform twin. Ford Motor Company covers the Ford Explorer with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a five-year/unlimited mileage corrosion warranty. Kia Corporation covers the Sorento with a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a ten-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a five-year/unlimited mileage corrosion warranty. The Kia warranties are much more significant than the Ford, but when it comes to the Kia, the lack of "crossover appeal" is sure to spell plummeting resale and trade-in value for the Sorento. This can potentially damage any cost savings to be had through lower repair costs. Both vehicles allocate free roadside assistance with their respective warranties. Ford offers a prepaid maintenance plan called "Ford Protect". This plan offers full-service maintenance for a pre-selected plan duration (ranging from one to seven years) and number of miles (ranging from 15,000 to 125,000 miles). Maintenance must be done at an authorized Ford dealership and is complete with a toll-free hotline, appointment scheduling, and covered shuttle service or loaner car if your vehicle requires overnight maintenance. Pricing varies for the plan depending on the vehicle and region. Call 1-866-768-968 for a quote. Kia provides a similar twelve-month/15,000-mile scheduled maintenance plan called "Kia Care Plus". This plan provides for service at a Kia dealership and offers a free multi-point inspection, covered shuttle service, and a car rental if the vehicle's maintenance will take more than one day. The cost for Kia Care Plus is $329. These programs and pricing are exclusives that can only help build peace of mind with respect to maintenance for a vehicle owner. Coming down the stretch, the Ford Explorer has more likelihood of stronger resale and trade-in value, which can be attributed to the vehicle's more broad use of crossover capability compared not only to the Kia Sorento but many others in its segment. This essentially can act as an extension of warranty coverage given that higher resale and trade-in worth mean more purchasing power for a new vehicle. Long-term reliability combines greater residual value with lower maintenance and repair costs. Lower repair costs come with having a means to acquire service sans payment. Higher resale and trade-in value and maintenance without payment are effectively reinforced by greater upfront warranty coverage. Overall, the cost of ownership for both vehicles can be managed relatively. For the Kia Sorento, lower repair costs and reduced maintenance expenses due to one or more warranty programs can play in turn with a potential loss of value on a vehicle that is not built for greater endurance and less likely to offer long-term reliability. For the Ford Explorer, the short terms of warranty coverage are offset by a strong likelihood of greater long-term affordability given that repair and maintenance expenses can be reduced if greater durability and reliability of the vehicle is met. Ford has built the Explorer with aspirations of strong long-term dependability never seen with previous generations. Step number one to ensure that is met will be strong validity of the Explorer over time. This can essentially be achieved through a means of warranty without a need for warranty. Essentially, less cost of repair and maintenance should be given in trade of today's fastidious costs in warranty purchases. Simple basics...greater validity or no need for warranty is a win situation on automobile ownership.

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