2010 Ford Explorer: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2010 Ford Explorer is that the optional 4.6-liter V8 is limited to Eddie Bauer and Limited trims. Otherwise, this is largely a carryover year, though Eddie Bauer’s third-row seat becomes standard.
About the 2010 Ford Explorer
Explorer SUV: 4th generation (2006-2010), final year before the 2011 redesign. Explorer Sport Trac: 2nd generation (2007-2010), final year.
Ford positions the 2010 Explorer family as traditional, truck-based utility transportation for people who need real towing strength, rough-road confidence, and flexible space. Compared with softer car-based crossovers, the Explorer leans toward capability: sturdy construction, available V8 power on upper trims, real four-wheel-drive hardware, and either a roomy SUV cabin or a short pickup bed in Sport Trac form. Its appeal is straightforward usefulness for family hauling, trailers, outdoor gear, and everyday driving.
XLT is the straightforward everyday trim, with a 4.0-liter V6, stability control, trailer-sway control, and cloth seating. Eddie Bauer adds heated leather-trimmed front seats, a standard fold-flat third row, and Ford’s SYNC voice-control system. Limited is the comfort-focused top trim, with heated leather-trimmed seats, upgraded audio, and additional convenience features.
What changed, by category
2010 Ford Explorer specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 4.0 Liter / V8, 4.6 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V8, 4.6 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter / V8, 4.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 4WD / 2WD | 2WD / 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 13–14 mpg | 14 mpg | 13–14 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 19–20 mpg | 19–20 mpg | 19 mpg |
| Horsepower | 210–292 hp | 210–292 hp | 210–292 hp |
| Torque | 254–315 lb-ft | 254–315 lb-ft | 254–315 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 6990–7115 lb | 6990–7115 lb | 7115 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 44.4–85.8 cu-ft | 44.4–83.7 cu-ft | 83.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 36.9 in | 34.9–36.9 in | 34.9 in |
| Seats | 5–7 | 5–7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Automatic Headlights | |||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Power Side Steps | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Side Steps | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Built-In Hard Drive | |||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Dual Power Front Seats | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Rear Air Conditioning | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Memory Driver's Seat | |||
| Memory Pedals | |||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Power Folding Third Row Seat | |||
| Remote Start | |||
| Third Row Seat | |||
| Tilt Wheel | |||
| Wood Interior Trim | |||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2010 Ford Explorer redesigned?
No. The 2010 Explorer is largely unchanged and is the final year of the fourth-generation SUV before the all-new 2011 model arrives.
Which 2010 Ford Explorer trims have the V8?
The optional 4.6-liter V8 is limited to Eddie Bauer and Limited trims for 2010. The 4.0-liter V6 remains the standard engine.
Does the 2010 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer have a third-row seat?
Yes. A fold-flat third-row seat is standard on the 2010 Eddie Bauer; it was optional the year before.
Is the 2010 Ford Explorer much different from the 2009 model?
No. The 2010 model is mostly a carryover from 2009. The main differences are narrower V8 availability and a newly standard third-row seat on Eddie Bauer.
Did the 2010 Ford Explorer receive new styling or safety technology?
No. There is no meaningful styling update or broad safety-system upgrade for the 2010 Explorer.