Why Kansas City Families Love the 2024 Ford Explorer

October 26, 2024 · 3 min read

Driving Your 2024 Ford Explorer

For generations, the Ford Explorer has been a trusted name among families—and the 2024 model continues that legacy with modern upgrades, versatile features, and impressive performance. At Thoroughbred Ford in Kansas City, we’ve seen more local families choose the Explorer as their go-to SUV for everything from daily carpools to weekend road trips across Missouri. Here’s why Kansas City families are falling in love with the 2024 Ford Explorer.

Spacious 3-Row Seating for the Whole Crew

Whether you’re taking the kids to soccer practice in North KC or heading out to Union Station for a family day, the Explorer’s flexible seating layout makes it easy to bring everyone—and everything—along:

Standard seating for 7 passengers
vailable second-row captain’s chairs for easier third-row access
PowerFold® third-row seats for quick cargo conversion
Up to 87.8 cu. ft. of cargo space

It’s perfect for families who need room to grow—and room to roam.

Tech Features That Keep Everyone Entertained

In the age of screen time, staying connected on the go is a must. The 2024 Explorer features:

SYNC® 3 infotainment system with voice-activated controls
Available 10.1-inch touchscreen
Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility
Available rear-seat entertainment system

Whether it’s a road trip to Lake of the Ozarks or just waiting in the school pickup line, the Explorer keeps boredom at bay.

Advanced Safety to Protect What Matters Most

Kansas City families put safety first—and so does the 2024 Ford Explorer. Every model comes with Ford Co-Pilot360™, including:

Pe-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
Blind Spot Information System (BLIS)
Lane-Keeping System
Rear View Camera with washer
Available Active Park Assist 2.0 for stress-free city parking

It’s peace of mind every time you hit I-70 or drive through Crown Center traffic.

Engine Choices That Balance Power and Efficiency

Ford gives families the freedom to choose the powertrain that fits their lifestyle:

2.3L EcoBoost® I-4 with 300 hp and 28 MPG highway
Available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 for more towing and muscle
Explorer Hybrid option with impressive range for eco-conscious drivers

Whether you're hauling camping gear or just zipping around town, there’s an Explorer that fits your needs.

(H2) Built to Tackle Missouri Weather

Thanks to its available Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System™, the Explorer can take on:

Kansas City snow and ice in winter
Spring thunderstorms and slick roads
Dirt trails near Parkville for weekend adventures

It’s built for year-round reliability in every corner of the KC metro.

A Design That Grows With Your Family

Ford designed the Explorer for modern families—big or small:

Easy-to-clean materials on select trims
Hands-free liftgate for quick loading
Available twin-panel moonroof
Quiet cabin with acoustic-laminated glass

It adapts to your family’s lifestyle with the comfort and convenience you expect from a premium SUV.

Real Kansas City Reviews

“We traded in our minivan and never looked back. The Explorer has room, tech, and looks sharp.” – Sara T., Lee’s Summit
“Best SUV we’ve owned. Great in winter and tons of trunk space for sports gear.” – Miguel R., Overland Park
“My family loves it. I use it for work during the day and we pile in for weekend road trips.” – Kim D., Brookside

Aug 06, 2025

2025 Ford Ranger A Step Above The Competition

2025 Ford Ranger vs Toyota Tacoma vs Chevy Colorado: Kansas City’s Midsize Truck Showdown Toy In a city like Kansas City—where job sites meet weekend getaways—drivers demand a midsize truck that works hard and plays harder. Enter three of the biggest names: the **2025 Ford Ranger**, **Toyota Tacoma**, and **Chevy Colorado**. While all three bring some heat, the new Ranger is redesigned, reengineered, and ready to dominate both the trails and the traffic. Let’s break it down for local buyers. Power and Performance: Ranger Leads in Muscle and Tech The 2025 Ford Ranger is now available with **three engine options**, including the high-output **3.0L EcoBoost V6** in the new Raptor trim—bringing serious off-road cred to Missouri trails. Ford Ranger Engine Lineup: - 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (270 hp, 310 lb-ft torque) - 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (315 hp, 400 lb-ft torque) - 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (405 hp, 430 lb-ft torque – Raptor) Tacoma offers a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder in multiple power levels, but no V6 option. Colorado has up to 310 hp in its high-output 2.7L engine, but falls short of the Ranger Raptor’s power. **Kansas City Verdict**: Ranger wins on engine variety, towing torque, and off-road horsepower. Towing and Payload: Built Ford Tough Still Reigns In a work-heavy city like KC, towing and hauling matter. The 2025 Ranger tows up to **7,500 lbs** and offers **1,805 lbs** of payload capacity when properly equipped. - 2025 Ranger: 7,500 lbs tow / 1,805 lbs payload - 2025 Tacoma: 6,500 lbs tow / ~1,700 lbs payload - 2025 Colorado: 7,700 lbs tow / ~1,600 lbs payload **KC Verdict**: Colorado slightly edges towing max, but Ford leads in real-world versatility and consistent payload strength. Plus, the trailer tech and drive modes in the Ranger give it the edge. Off-Road Capability: Raptor Makes a Statement While all three trucks offer off-road-focused trims, only one offers Raptor-grade performance: - 33” all-terrain tires - FOX™ Live Valve shocks - 10.7" ground clearance - Front & rear lockers - Trail Control and Trail Turn Assist Tacoma’s TRD Pro and Colorado ZR2 are both respectable, but neither hits the Raptor’s Baja-level capability. **KC Verdict**: The Raptor is in a class of its own for Missouri off-roaders. Technology and Interior Features The 2025 Ranger debuts with an ultra-modern interior, including: - Available 12.4” digital gauge cluster - 12” SYNC® 4A touchscreen (standard on XLT+) - Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ - 360-degree camera system with off-road views Tacoma also introduces a new digital dash, but interface responsiveness and software updates lag behind Ford’s SYNC. Colorado’s system is solid, but lacks the refinement of Ranger’s layout. **KC Verdict**: Ranger delivers the cleanest, smartest cabin tech in the class. Design and Comfort: Ford Gets the Details Right The 2025 Ranger sports a bolder grille, C-clamp LED lights, strong wheel arches, and wide-track stance on the Raptor. Inside, the materials feel upscale and durable, especially on Lariat and Raptor trims. Tacoma's redesign brings bolder looks, but some trims still feel utilitarian. Colorado’s cockpit is functional, but lacks the same visual punch. **KC Verdict**: Ford nails comfort without compromising durability—perfect for Kansas City commuters and contractors alike. Trim and Price Comparison (Estimated MSRPs) - Ford Ranger XL: ~$32,000 - Toyota Tacoma SR: ~$32,000 - Chevy Colorado WT: ~$31,000 - Ford Ranger Raptor: ~$56,000 - Tacoma TRD Pro: ~$53,000 - Colorado ZR2 Bison: ~$60,000+ The Ranger lineup hits the sweet spot in value, especially in XLT and Lariat trims. The Raptor brings unmatched off-road performance without hitting ZR2 Bison prices. Local Drivers Speak > “I test-drove all three—Ranger had better visibility and tech, hands down.” – James F., Kansas City, MO > “Raptor is the first midsize that feels like a full-size off-roader. Game-changer.” – Ryan D., Liberty, MO Final Verdict: 2025 Ranger Is the Best Midsize Truck for Kansas City From job sites in Independence to trails near Weston Bend, the 2025 Ford Ranger is more than capable—it’s class-leading. More power. More options. More Ford.

Jul 11, 2025

2025 Ford Bronco Outshines The Competition

2025 Ford Bronco vs Jeep Wrangler vs Toyota 4Runner: Kansas City’s Off-Road SUV Showdown Kansas City SUV shoppers looking for a rugged, trail-ready ride in 2025 are comparing three legendary names: the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, and Toyota 4Runner. While all three bring a heritage of off-road prowess, only one combines old-school capability with modern technology and everyday comfort—the 2025 Bronco. Off-Road Capabilities: Bronco Rips Through the Trails Up to 13.1 inches of ground clearance Available Sasquatch™ Package with 35” tires and front/rear locking differentials Terrain Management System™ with G.O.A.T. Modes™ Trail Turn Assist, Trail Control™, and more Wrangler still offers great capability, especially in Rubicon trims, but suffers from limited visibility and on-road manners. 4Runner hasn’t evolved much and lags in trail tech. Powertrain Options: Bronco Brings the Heat Turbo 2.3L I-4 (300 hp) or 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (330 hp) Raptor 3.0L V6 (418 hp) Wrangler: 2.0L Turbo, 3.6L V6, or 4xe PHEV (375 hp) 4Runner: 4.0L V6 (270 hp) On-Road Comfort and Daily Use Kansas City drivers aren’t just hitting the trails—they’re commuting, shopping, and hauling. Bronco wins with: Independent front suspension (vs Wrangler’s solid front axle) Quieter cabin and modern interior finishes Easier ingress/egress and more refined handling Interior Tech and Features 12” SYNC 4 touchscreen Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ 360° camera with off-road views OTA updates and off-road navigation Customization and Accessories Removable doors and roof panels Factory lift kits, snorkels, beadlock-capable wheels Dozens of Ford Performance Parts accessories Price Comparison and Value Bronco Base: ~$39,000 Wrangler Sport: ~$38,500 4Runner SR5: ~$41,000 Real Kansas City Driver Reviews “I take my Bronco to Clinton Lake and back every weekend. Smooth on I-70, beast off it.” – Ethan W., Overland Park “Switched from Wrangler to Bronco—better tech, better visibility, better ride.” – Natalie M., Kansas City, MO Final Verdict: Bronco Wins Kansas City’s Off-Road SUV Battle From daily drives to Ozark trails, the 2025 Ford Bronco outshines the Wrangler and 4Runner in performance, comfort, and trail-readiness. It’s modern, muscular, and made to roam.

Jun 27, 2025

2025 Ford Explorer vs. The Competition

2025 Ford Explorer vs Honda Pilot vs Chevy Traverse: Kansas City SUV Comparison Kansas City families shopping for a 3-row SUV in 2025 are comparing the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, and Chevy Traverse. While each model offers spacious interiors and modern features, the Explorer stands out for its power, tech, and real-world usability. Let’s break it down. Performance & Powertrain Explorer: Standard turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost (300 hp), optional twin-turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp in ST) Pilot: 3.5L V6 (285 hp), no turbo option Traverse: All-new 2.5L turbo I4 (328 hp) The Explorer wins for those seeking thrilling power or towing capability in the ST or Timberline models. Interior Space & Features Each SUV seats up to 7 or 8, but the Explorer adds upscale touches and more flexible configurations, including: Power-folding third-row Available second-row captain’s chairs SYNC 4 infotainment with 13.2” touchscreen Tech & Safety Explorer: Ford Co-Pilot360™, wireless Apple CarPlay®, BlueCruise (hands-free driving) Pilot: Honda Sensing®, wired CarPlay, smaller touchscreen Traverse: Strong Google integration, but lacks hands-free tech Explorer leads in tech integration and advanced driver-assist systems. Style & Ride Quality The 2025 Explorer delivers a refined balance between ruggedness and smooth on-road driving—ideal for KC commutes and long family road trips. The Timberline trim especially turns heads with off-road looks. Pricing Explorer: Starts around $38,000 Pilot: Around $39,500 Traverse: $37,600 starting Explorer’s trims offer the best blend of features and pricing flexibility in the segment. KC Driver Feedback “The Explorer’s towing power handled our camper with ease—super smooth on I-70.” – Mike R., Lee’s Summit “Pilot was solid, but the Explorer gave us more for the money and better tech.” – Jessica N., Kansas City Final Verdict for Kansas City Buyers For power, advanced tech, and real-world comfort, the 2025 Ford Explorer leads the pack in Kansas City. Whether you're heading downtown, to soccer practice, or across Missouri, it delivers where it counts.

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