When Ford shifted its iconic nameplate from a truck-based platform to a unibody crossover for the fifth-generation model run, traditionalists groaned. They wanted body-on-frame towing grit. Instead, family buyers got something far more practical. The 2013 Ford Explorer XLT landed right in the sweet spot of the lineup, balancing everyday driveability with three-row capability. It traded heavy-duty mud-running for fuel efficiency and car-like handling, fundamentally altering what buyers expected from a domestic midsize utility vehicle.
If you are shopping the used market today, understanding how this specific model year holds up is essential. While it solved many comfort complaints of earlier generations, it introduced mechanical quirks that you need to check before handing over cash. Let us break down what makes the XLT trim tick, where it shines, and what you should watch out for.
Performance and Drivetrain Specs
Under the hood, the standard setup relies on a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine pumping out 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. You could choose between front-wheel drive and an intelligent four-wheel-drive system featuring a dial-controlled Terrain Management System.
- Horsepower: 290 hp at 6,500 RPM
- Torque: 255 lb-ft at 4,000 RPM
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped
- EPA Fuel Economy: Roughly 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive variants
Power delivery feels adequate for daily commuting, though highway passing requires a heavy foot due to the vehicle's curb weight hovering around 4,500 pounds. Unlike the turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder introduced later or the twin-turbo Sport trim, the base V6 offers a simpler mechanical layout that many independent mechanics prefer to service.
Interior Layout and Practicality
Cabin space remains one of the strongest selling points for this generation. The XLT trim strikes a balance between utilitarian durability and comfortable family transport, avoiding the bare-bones feel of base models while skipping pricey luxury markups.
You get cloth seating as standard, though many original buyers opted for the leather-trimmed package. The front row offers generous head and shoulder room, while the second-row bench splits, folds, and slides to accommodate different cargo and passenger configurations. The third row utilizes a 50/50 split-folding bench that stows flat into the floor, transforming the vehicle from a seven-seater into a cavernous cargo hauler with over 80 cubic feet of maximum storage space.
Infotainment and Ergonomics
Technology inside the 2013 model reflects a transitional era for the automotive industry. The XLT often features the MyFord Touch system driven by an 8-inch center touchscreen and dual cluster displays. While revolutionary for its time, users frequently report that the interface is slow to respond and has a steep learning curve. Voice commands can frustrate drivers, so many owners rely on smartphone mounts rather than the factory navigation software. For official vehicle history records or safety bulletins, you can cross-reference the NHTSA website for open recalls.
Common Problems and What to Inspect
Buying a mid-tier used crossover requires careful inspection. The 2013 model year carries specific known issues that you must verify during a pre-purchase test drive:
- Power Steering Failure: This model year transitioned to an electric power steering system. If the steering rack fails, it can cause sudden stiffness at low speeds, resulting in expensive repairs exceeding $1,000.
- Interior Rattles and Trim: A-pillar trim pieces and door panels are prone to loosening or warping over time due to thermal expansion in hot climates.
- Exhaust Odors: Some owners report a faint exhaust or carbon monoxide smell entering the cabin under hard acceleration, prompting various technical service bulletins from Ford.
- Water Pumps: The 3.5L V6 features an internal water pump design. If the seal fails, coolant can leak directly into the engine oil, leading to catastrophic failure if caught too late. Listen closely for unusual bearing noises near the front engine cover during a cold start.
To see how modern automotive standards compare, look at current evaluations on Car and Driver to understand how utility benchmarks have shifted over the last decade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT have third-row seating?
Yes. The XLT comes standard with a three-row configuration seating up to seven passengers, though the rearmost seats are best suited for children or short trips.
What is the real-world fuel economy for the V6 engine?
While EPA ratings suggest up to 23 mpg on the highway, real-world mixed city and highway driving typically yields closer to 18 to 20 mpg depending on maintenance and driving habits.
Is the 2013 model capable of heavy towing?
It handles small utility trailers, pop-up campers, or light boats up to 5,000 pounds when equipped with the proper factory towing package, but it's not built for heavy-duty commercial hauling.
How does the XLT differ from the Limited trim?
The XLT serves as the volume-selling mid-tier option focusing on core value, whereas the Limited adds premium touches like ambient lighting, larger wheels, upgraded Sony audio, and standard leather upholstery.
