Alright, buckle up, folks, because we're diving deep into the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum! This SUV has been a popular choice for families and adventure seekers alike, and for good reason. The Platinum trim, in particular, is the top-of-the-line offering, boasting a luxurious interior and a suite of impressive features. We're going to take a close look at what makes the 2018 Explorer Platinum tick, from its performance and features to its pros and cons, so you can decide if it's the right ride for you. Let's get started, shall we?

Unveiling the Ford Explorer Platinum: What's the Hype?

The 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum is more than just an SUV; it's a statement. It sits at the pinnacle of the Explorer lineup, offering a premium experience that sets it apart from the lower trims. The Platinum trim is all about luxury, performance, and advanced technology. You'll immediately notice the upgrades when you step inside. This includes premium leather seats, real wood trim accents, and a long list of tech goodies. This model is all about delivering a comfortable and connected driving experience. Under the hood, the Platinum trim comes with a powerful engine designed to give you plenty of get-up-and-go. The features, like adaptive cruise control and a premium sound system, will make every trip more enjoyable. Whether you're navigating city streets or hitting the open road, the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum is designed to impress.

The Explorer has long been a favorite, especially for those looking for a versatile vehicle. It perfectly suits different lifestyles, from busy families to individuals seeking adventure. It provides ample space for passengers and cargo. That versatility, combined with the Platinum's luxurious touches, makes it a compelling choice. If you're considering a used SUV in this class, the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum should definitely be on your radar. The overall design is both stylish and functional. It seamlessly blends comfort and capability, making it a well-rounded vehicle. The exterior design features a sleek and modern look, with distinct Platinum-specific elements that add to its premium feel. The interior is where the Platinum truly shines. The high-quality materials and thoughtful design create a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere. Overall, the Ford Explorer Platinum in 2018 offered a compelling package, providing a balance of luxury, performance, and practicality that appealed to a wide range of buyers. It's a testament to Ford's commitment to delivering a top-tier SUV experience, and that's something we are going to explore in the following sections.

Driving Experience and Performance: Power and Handling

Let's talk about what's under the hood! The 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum is powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This engine delivers a robust 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This power plant is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. This combination ensures plenty of power for accelerating, passing, and towing. The EcoBoost engine provides both performance and efficiency, offering a balance that appeals to a variety of drivers. The Platinum trim comes standard with all-wheel drive (AWD). This enhances traction and stability, especially in challenging weather conditions or on uneven terrain. The AWD system also improves handling, making the Explorer feel confident and planted on the road.

Now, let's talk about handling and ride quality. The Explorer Platinum is designed to provide a comfortable ride, even on long journeys. The suspension system effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, ensuring a smooth experience for passengers. The steering is responsive, making the Explorer easy to maneuver in various driving situations. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Explorer Platinum delivers a composed and controlled driving experience. The combination of power, handling, and ride quality makes the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum a pleasure to drive. It's an SUV that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures with ease. The engine's responsiveness and the AWD system's capability make it a versatile and reliable choice for a wide range of drivers. The Explorer Platinum does an excellent job of balancing performance with everyday usability, ensuring that both the driver and passengers enjoy every ride.

Interior Luxury and Features: Comfort and Technology

Step inside the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum, and you'll immediately notice the difference. The interior is where this trim really shines. The seats are swathed in premium leather, providing both comfort and a touch of luxury. The front seats are heated and cooled, adding to the comfort level, regardless of the weather outside. The Platinum trim also features real wood trim accents, which enhance the overall aesthetic and create a more upscale atmosphere. The spacious cabin provides ample room for both passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families and those who need extra space. The interior design is thoughtful, with attention to detail evident throughout. The layout is user-friendly, with controls that are easy to reach and operate. The quality of the materials is top-notch, with soft-touch surfaces and premium finishes. This creates a comfortable and inviting environment for everyone on board.

Let's dive into the technology features. The 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum is packed with tech. It includes Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system, which features an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. This system is intuitive and easy to use, providing access to navigation, entertainment, and communication features. The Platinum trim also comes with a premium sound system, which delivers exceptional audio quality, enhancing your listening experience. Other key features include a panoramic sunroof, which floods the cabin with natural light, and a hands-free, foot-activated liftgate for easy access to the cargo area. The Platinum also includes advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features enhance safety and make driving easier, especially on long trips. The 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum's interior offers a blend of luxury, comfort, and advanced technology. It's a space designed to enhance your driving experience, providing a premium environment that caters to both the driver and the passengers. The attention to detail and the high-quality materials create a welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere that sets this SUV apart.

Safety Features and Reliability: Keeping You Safe

Safety is paramount, and the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. This includes a robust airbag system, electronic stability control, and traction control, all designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. In addition to these standard safety features, the Platinum trim also includes a range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to help prevent accidents. These features include adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and lane-keeping assist, which helps to keep you in your lane by providing steering assistance. Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert is also included. It alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot and warns you of approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space.

The 2018 Ford Explorer also boasts a high safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. The Explorer received an overall safety rating of four out of five stars in NHTSA crash tests. This rating reflects the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in a variety of crash scenarios. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also gave the 2018 Ford Explorer positive ratings in several crashworthiness tests. The IIHS awarded the Explorer with the highest rating of 'Good' in most of its tests. These high safety ratings provide peace of mind, knowing that the Explorer is designed to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The Explorer's combination of standard safety features and advanced driver-assistance systems makes it a safe and reliable choice for families and anyone prioritizing safety. With its solid safety ratings and advanced technology, the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum is a vehicle you can trust to protect you and your loved ones on every journey.

Pros and Cons: Weighing Your Options

Let's break down the good and the not-so-good of the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum.

Pros:

• Luxurious Interior: The Platinum trim offers a truly premium experience with high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and elegant design.
• Powerful Engine: The EcoBoost engine provides ample power for both city driving and highway cruising.
• Advanced Technology: Equipped with the SYNC 3 infotainment system, a premium sound system, and a suite of driver-assistance features.
• All-Wheel Drive: Standard AWD enhances traction and stability, making it ideal for various driving conditions.
• Spacious Cabin: Offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo.

Cons:

• Fuel Economy: The EcoBoost engine, while powerful, may not be the most fuel-efficient option in its class.
• Price: The Platinum trim is at the higher end of the price spectrum, making it a significant investment.
• Infotainment System: While the SYNC 3 system is generally user-friendly, some users may find it occasionally glitchy.
• Ride Quality: While comfortable, some may find the ride a bit firm compared to other luxury SUVs.

Weighing the pros and cons is a crucial part of the decision-making process. The 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum excels in luxury, performance, and advanced features, but potential buyers should consider the fuel economy and price point. Ultimately, the best way to determine if the Explorer Platinum is right for you is to test drive one and experience it firsthand. This will allow you to assess the features and determine if they align with your needs and preferences.

Conclusion: Is the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum Right for You?

So, after taking a deep dive, what's the verdict on the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum? It's a compelling choice for those seeking a luxurious and capable SUV. With its powerful engine, premium interior, and advanced technology, the Platinum trim offers a top-tier driving experience. The standard all-wheel drive and advanced safety features add to its appeal. However, potential buyers should consider the fuel economy and price point. Overall, the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum is a well-rounded vehicle that delivers on its promise of luxury, performance, and practicality. It's a great option for families, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a premium SUV experience. If you're in the market for a used SUV and prioritize comfort, technology, and performance, the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum is definitely worth a look. Do your research, take a test drive, and see if it's the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Happy exploring!