2023 Ford Explorer XLT: Versatile Adventure for Central Illinois Families

The 2023 Ford Explorer XLT is the quintessential mid-sized SUV designed to handle the diverse demands of life in Central Illinois. Whether you are navigating the energetic, academic atmosphere of Champaign, IL for a weekend football game or heading out for a peaceful morning of fishing near the quiet rural landscapes of Shelbyville, IL, this vehicle provides the space and capability you need. It is a vehicle built for those who value a blend of professional reliability and weekend spontaneity, offering enough room for the whole family while maintaining a footprint that feels at home on both city streets and country roads.

Imagine loading up the kids and gear for a trip to a local festival or a school sporting event; the Explorer XLT serves as a mobile headquarters that keeps everyone comfortable and secure. Its Agate Black exterior provides a sophisticated, timeless look that fits in perfectly at a high-end restaurant downtown or parked alongside a fertile field during harvest season. This is more than just a mode of transportation; it is a tool for building memories across the prairie region, providing a dependable partner for every commute, carpool, and cross-county excursion you have planned.

Turbocharged Precision and Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive

Under the hood, the 2023 Ford Explorer XLT is powered by a sophisticated EcoBoost 2.3L I-4 engine featuring gasoline direct injection and an intercooled turbocharger. This powerplant delivers a robust 300HP, providing plenty of punch for merging onto the highway or navigating the gently rolling plains around Decatur, IL. The engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, which includes electronic control and a selectable mode feature, ensuring that power delivery is always smooth and efficient, whether you are cruising at highway speeds or navigating stop-and-go traffic.

The Four-Wheel Drive system is bolstered by Intelligent 4WD, an automatic full-time system that monitors traction and adjusts power delivery instantaneously. Combined with Selectable Terrain Modes, this Explorer is ready to handle the unpredictable Midwestern weather, from sudden summer downpours to winter slush. The mechanical foundation is further enhanced by an independent front and rear suspension setup, utilizing struts in the front and a multi-link configuration in the rear. This design ensures a composed ride quality that absorbs road imperfections with ease. For those long drives across the state, the Auto stop-start engine helps optimize fuel consumption, while the transmission fluid temperature warning and engine temperature gauge provide peace of mind during more demanding drives.

Seamless Connectivity and Smart Technology

Staying connected while on the move is effortless thanks to the SYNC 3 infotainment system. The cabin features a primary 8-inch touchscreen that serves as the hub for your media and vehicle settings, complemented by a 6.5-inch gauge cluster display that keeps vital information directly in your line of sight. With Smart device integration including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can easily mirror your favorite navigation apps or music libraries directly onto the vehicles screen.

Communication is handled safely via Bluetooth handsfree wireless device connectivity, allowing you to take calls or dictate messages without taking your hands off the leather steering wheel. For the rest of the family, 4 USB ports ensure that everyones devices stay charged during trips between local communities. The SYNC 3 voice-activated audio controls and steering wheel mounted audio controls allow for intuitive adjustments to the 6-speaker sound system. Additionally, the FordPass Connect 4G mobile hotspot capability provides internet access on the go, making it easy for passengers to stay entertained or for you to check local weather updates during a stop in Arcola, IL.

Refined Interior Comfort and Flexible Seating

The interior of this Explorer XLT is finished in an elegant Ebony palette with Premium cloth front seat upholstery. The driver is treated to an 8-way power seat including 2-way power lumbar support, while the front passenger enjoys 4-way power adjustments. Both the driver and front passenger benefit from Heated front seats, a welcome feature during chilly Illinois mornings. The cabin environment is managed by Automatic climate control with Dual-zone front climate control, and a Rear climate control system with separate controls ensures those in the back remain comfortable. Rear headliner/pillar climate control ducts and under-seat ducts provide consistent airflow throughout all three rows.

This SUV is designed for maximum utility with a seating capacity of 6, featuring Second-row captains' chairs that offer manual fore, aft, and reclining adjustments. The Third-row bench seat features a 50-50 folding design that can manual fold into the floor, creating a flat cargo area when you need to transport larger items. Accessing the rear is simple with the Power liftgate, and the cargo area concealed storage helps keep valuables out of sight. Small touches like the Chrome and metal-look interior accents, Piano black console insert, and Fade interior courtesy lights elevate the daily driving experience, making every trip feel a bit more special.

Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a paramount concern for the 2023 Ford Explorer XLT, which comes equipped with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of technologies. The BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) and Lane Keeping Alert work together to provide an extra set of eyes on the road, while the Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection and Forward collision warning help mitigate potential incidents. In the event of a collision, the Post-Collision Braking system automatically applies the brakes to help prevent a secondary impact.

The vehicle is outfitted with a comprehensive 8-airbag system, including Driver and passenger side knee airbags and the Safety Canopy System which provides curtain coverage for all three rows. Parking and maneuvering in tight spaces is made easier with the Reverse Sensing System rear parking sensors and a Rear camera with washer, ensuring you always have a clear view of what is behind you. For families, the Manual rear child safety door locks and MyKey restricted driving mode provide added layers of security and control. The 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS) and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control ensure the vehicle remains poised and predictable regardless of the road conditions.

Sophisticated Exterior and Functional Design

The Agate Black exterior of the Explorer XLT is both bold and functional. The front profile is defined by a Grille with chrome bar and LED low and high beam headlights that provide exceptional visibility. Active grille shutters help manage aerodynamics and engine cooling, while the Body-colored front and rear bumpers create a cohesive, modern look. The vehicle sits on 18-inch silver aluminum wheels wrapped in P255/65HR18 all-season tires, providing a perfect balance of style and year-round performance.

Practicality is woven into the design with Roof rails for extra gear and Heated driver and passenger side door mirrors that clear quickly in frosty weather. The Rear lip spoiler adds a touch of athletic flair, while Deep tinted windows provide privacy and sun protection for rear passengers. Security and convenience are handled by the Intelligent Access with push-button start and Remote activated perimeter approach lighting, which illuminates the area around the doors with puddle lights as you approach. Whether you are parked in a busy lot in Decatur, IL or a quiet driveway, the Autolamp auto on/off headlight control ensures you never have to worry about your lights.

Key Highlights

The 2023 Ford Explorer XLT is packed with features designed to enhance every aspect of your ownership experience.

• EcoBoost 2.3L I-4 Engine - 300HP of turbocharged efficiency and power.
• Intelligent 4WD - Seamless traction control for all weather conditions.
• Power Liftgate - Hands-free convenience for loading and unloading cargo.
• SYNC 3 with 8-inch Touchscreen - Advanced connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Heated Front Seats - Essential comfort for the cold Midwestern winters.
• Second-Row Captains' Chairs - Improved passenger comfort and easy access to the third row.
• Ford Co-Pilot360 - A comprehensive suite of driver-assist safety technologies.
• 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot - Keeping the whole family connected on the road.
• Reverse Sensing System - Audible alerts to help you park with confidence.
• LED Daytime Running Lights - Enhanced visibility and modern styling.
• Terrain Management System - Optimized performance for various driving surfaces.
• 10-Speed Automatic Transmission - Smooth shifting and improved fuel economy.
• Tri-Zone Climate Control - Personalized comfort for the driver, front passenger, and rear occupants.
• Trailer Sway Control - Added stability when hauling your favorite recreational toys.
• SecuriLock Immobilizer - Advanced anti-theft protection for your peace of mind.

Visit Us at Pilson Ford

Finding the perfect vehicle should be an enjoyable experience, and at Pilson Ford, we strive to make every step of the process seamless. Located at 2000 Lake Land Blvd, Mattoon, IL 61938, we are just a short and scenic drive away for residents of Arcola, IL or those coming from the Tuscola, IL area. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the right SUV for your lifestyle and budget. We invite you to Get Directions to Pilson Ford and see this Explorer XLT in person.

Whether you want to Apply for Financing before you arrive or you are looking to Value Your Trade-In, our online tools are here to save you time. If you have any questions about this vehicle or any other in our Pre-Owned Inventory, please Call us at 217-294-6910. We look forward to serving you and helping you get behind the wheel of a vehicle that truly fits your life in Central Illinois.