2011 Ford Explorer: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 13, 2026

The 2011 Ford Explorer is an all-new, fifth-generation model. Its biggest change is the move from a truck-based SUV to a car-based crossover designed for a smoother, more family-focused driving experience.

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About the 2011 Ford Explorer

5th generation (2011-2015), first year of the redesign.

Ford positioned the 2011 Explorer as a smarter, more family-friendly SUV that still kept an adventurous image. The core pitch was three-row usefulness, stronger fuel economy than the old Explorer, solid towing ability, and a noticeably more upscale cabin. Ford leaned hard on technology and safety as differentiators, especially the new dashboard interface, available terrain-control system, and class-first inflatable rear seat belts, while presenting the Explorer as an everyday family vehicle rather than a traditional truck SUV.

The redesigned Explorer is a three-row, seven-seat family crossover offered in base, XLT, and Limited trims. XLT adds conveniences such as rear parking sensors, while the upscale Limited has leather seating, an 8-inch MyFord Touch system, a rearview camera, and a 12-speaker Sony audio system.

What changed, by category

Structural

The Explorer moved to a unibody, car-based platform with a front-wheel-drive layout and optional four-wheel drive. A three-row, seven-seat interior became standard across the lineup.

Powertrain

Every trim received a 290-hp 3.5-liter V6 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Safety

Curve Control became standard as part of the stability-control system. It was designed to help slow the Explorer if it entered a curve too quickly.

Tech

The redesign introduced Terrain Management and the MyFord Touch interface. Limited made the 8-inch MyFord Touch system, remote start, and touchscreen standard.

Lineup

A new base trim joined the range, while the Eddie Bauer trim was dropped. XLT and Limited continued within the fully redesigned lineup.

2011 Ford Explorer specs and features by trim

Feature	2011 Ford ExplorerXLT1 in stock	2011 Ford ExplorerBase0 in stock	2011 Ford ExplorerLimited1 in stock
Engine	V6, 3.5 Liter	V6, 3.5 Liter	V6, 3.5 Liter
Transmission	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive	Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive
Drivetrain	4WD	2WD	4WD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	17 mpg	17 mpg	17 mpg
MPG Highway	25 mpg	25 mpg	25 mpg
Horsepower	290 hp	290 hp	290 hp
Torque	255 lb-ft	255 lb-ft	255 lb-ft
Max Towing	5000 lb	5000 lb	5000 lb
Trunk/Cargo	80.7 cu-ft	80.7 cu-ft	80.7 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	33.2 in	33.2 in	33.2 in
Seats	7	7	7
Doors	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Automatic Emergency Braking
Automatic Headlights
Blindspot Sensors
Hill Descent Control
Inflatable Seat Belts
Park Assist
Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
Rear Parking Sensors
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
HID Headlights
Heated Mirrors
Memory Exterior Mirrors
Power Moonroof
Power Folding Exterior Mirrors
Power Liftgate/Trunk Release
Roof Rails
Tow Hooks
Entertainment & Electronics
AM/FM Radio
Front DVD Entertainment System
LCD Instrument Cluster
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Rear DVD Entertainment System
SD Card Slot
Satellite Radio
Touch Screen Monitor
USB Ports
Video Input
Comfort & Convenience
Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror
Cooled Seats
Dual Power Front Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Integrated Garage Door Opener
Interior Ambient Lighting
Leather Seats
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Memory Driver's Seat
Memory Pedals
Power Adjustable Pedals
Power Driver Seat
Power Folding Third Row Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Remote Start
Third Row Seat

How the 2012 Ford Explorer compares

The 2012 Ford Explorer’s biggest change is a new 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder for front-wheel-drive models, aimed at buyers who value fuel economy. Otherwise, this is a light update to the redesigned 2011 Explorer.

See the full 2012 changes

Frequently asked questions

Was the 2011 Ford Explorer fully redesigned?

Yes. The 2011 Explorer began the model’s fifth generation and replaced the previous truck-based design with a car-based unibody platform.

How is the 2011 Explorer different from the 2010 model?

The 2011 Explorer uses a new car-based structure, a front-wheel-drive layout, a 290-hp 3.5-liter V6, and a six-speed automatic. It also has standard seating for seven and newer safety and dashboard technology.

Does every 2011 Ford Explorer have three rows?

Yes. Every 2011 Explorer has three-row seating for seven passengers, regardless of trim.

What engine does the 2011 Ford Explorer have?

Every 2011 Explorer has a 290-hp 3.5-liter V6 and a six-speed automatic transmission.

Which trims changed for the 2011 Ford Explorer?

The 2011 lineup added a new base trim and dropped the Eddie Bauer. XLT and Limited carried into the redesigned generation, with Limited taking a more upscale, technology-focused role.