Why the Ford Explorer Fits the Central Coast Lifestyle
Our region is unique because our "daily drive" often looks like other people's vacations. Whether you are in San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, or Santa Barbara, your vehicle needs to adapt quickly. This is where the Ford Explorer excels. It offers the interior volume necessary for school runs and grocery hauls, but with the drivetrain architecture to tow a boat to the lake or handle lighter off-road trails.
We recommend the Explorer to local families because of its flexible functionality:
- Intelligent 4WD availability: Essential for unpredictable weather or loose terrain.
- Configurable Cargo Space: The PowerFold® third-row seats make switching between passenger room and cargo storage instantaneous.
- Terrain Management System™: Dial in specific modes for sand, trail, or slippery conditions, which is vital for our varied local geography.
Matching the Trim Level to Your Drive
We find that many shoppers arrive on our lot knowing they want an Explorer, but they aren't sure which configuration suits them best. Because the trim lineup is diverse, matching the specs to your driving habits is part of our process.
For the Adventure Seeker
If your weekends are spent camping near Lopez Lake or hiking in the Padres, we often point toward the Explorer Timberline. This trim usually features increased ground clearance, steel skid plates, and off-road tuned struts that provide confidence when the pavement ends.
For the Performance Enthusiast
Just because you need a three-row SUV doesn't mean you have to sacrifice driving dynamics. The Explorer ST is a favorite among our staff for its athletic stance and potent engine output. It’s tuned for a spirited drive down Highway 1 without compromising the space needed for passengers.
For the Refined Commuter
If your priority is premium comfort for long drives up and down the coast, the Platinum and **King Ranch** models offer a sanctuary-like cabin. Leather seating surfaces, advanced sound systems, and quieter interior engineering make these trims ideal for those who spend a lot of time on the road.
Performance and Towing Capability
One of the most frequent questions our team fields is regarding power. The Explorer lineup generally offers a choice between efficient EcoBoost® 4-cylinder engines and more powerful V6 options. For residents who own trailers or boats, the Explorer is a standout in its class. When properly equipped with the Class IV Trailer Tow Package, this SUV demonstrates impressive towing capacity, allowing you to haul gear without needing to upgrade to a full-size truck.
Safety and Technology
Modern driving on busy California highways requires an extra set of eyes. Ford Co-Pilot360™ technology brings a suite of standard and available driver-assist features to the table. From Blind Spot Information Systems (BLIS) to Adaptive Cruise Control, these features act as a safety net for you and your family.
Inside the cabin, connectivity remains a priority. With intuitive infotainment interfaces and smartphone integration, keeping navigation and music accessible is seamless, ensuring you stay focused on the road ahead.
Central Coast Ford Dealerships
Southern California Ford Dealers proudly serve the Central Coast region with convenient locations throughout San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties:
- Mullahey Ford - Arroyo Grande, California
- Paso Robles Ford Lincoln - Paso Robles, California
- Perry Ford Lincoln of San Luis Obispo - San Luis Obispo, California
- Jim Vreeland Ford - Buellton, California
- Perry Ford Lincoln of Santa Barbara - Santa Barbara, California
- Santa Maria Ford Lincoln - Santa Maria, California
- Envision Ford of Oxnard - Oxnard, California
Use our dealer locator to find your nearest Ford dealership and schedule a test drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can the Ford Explorer tow?
Depending on the engine configuration and trim level, the Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped with the Class IV Trailer Tow Package. This is generally sufficient for small travel trailers, jet skis, or utility trailers.
Does the Ford Explorer have 3rd-row seating?
Yes, the Ford Explorer comes standard with third-row seating, accommodating up to seven passengers depending on the configuration (six passengers if equipped with second-row captain's chairs).
Is the Ford Explorer available with 4-wheel drive?
Yes, Intelligent 4WD is available across the lineup and comes standard on off-road-oriented trims like the Timberline. Rear-wheel drive is the standard configuration for base models, offering a sporty driving feel.
What is the cargo space like in the Explorer?
The Explorer offers ample cargo versatility. With all seats up, you have storage for groceries and bags. Folding the third row significantly expands the space for larger gear, and folding both rear rows opens up the maximum cargo volume for hauling furniture or large equipment.
Ready to Experience the Explorer?
Pictures and specs only tell half the story. The best way to know if this SUV is right for you is to sit in the driver's seat. Our dealerships are here to walk you through the current inventory, explain our competitive financing options, and help you value your trade-in. You can even custom build your Ford Explorer directly on our website
Visit one of our local Central Coast Ford dealerships or check our online inventory to see what we have in stock.