The 2023 Ford Explorer Platinum combines the space and flexibility of a three-row SUV with a powertrain and interior that feel substantially more premium than a typical family crossover. Finished in Silver Metallic with leather seating, this four-wheel-drive Explorer pairs Ford’s 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 with a 10-speed automatic transmission, giving it strong performance while preserving the passenger room and cargo versatility that make Explorer such a practical choice around Wesley Chapel and Tampa.

The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 gives the Platinum a very different character from four-cylinder Explorer trims. Strong torque arrives early, making highway merging and passing feel effortless, while the 10-speed automatic provides a broad spread of ratios for both acceleration and relaxed cruising. Intelligent four-wheel drive adds traction when roads are wet or conditions change, and selectable drive modes allow the vehicle to adapt its response to different surfaces and driving situations.

Platinum trim brings a more sophisticated exterior presentation with unique grille and brightwork details, premium lighting, larger alloy wheels, and polished accents that distinguish it from more utilitarian Explorer models. The overall design still emphasizes practicality, with a tall roofline, large rear doors, and a power liftgate that make the vehicle easy to use for family schedules, airport runs, and longer trips.

Inside, the Explorer Platinum focuses on long-distance comfort.
Leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seating, a heated steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats with memory, tri-zone automatic climate control, and premium cabin finishes give it a more upscale feel. The second row provides useful adult space, while the third row can accommodate additional passengers or fold when cargo room takes priority.

Infotainment and audio technology are designed for a vehicle that may spend a lot of time on the road. Ford’s touchscreen system supports smartphone integration, Bluetooth®, navigation, voice functions, and connected services, while the premium audio system provides a richer listening experience throughout the cabin. Multiple USB ports help keep passengers connected, while FordPass Connect can support remote functions when properly activated.

Driver-assistance technology adds another layer of convenience.
Adaptive cruise control, lane-centering and lane-keeping support, blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, parking sensors, and camera-based visibility features help reduce workload in traffic and during low-speed maneuvering. These systems are useful whether the Explorer is navigating crowded Tampa parking lots or spending hours on Interstate 75.

Cargo flexibility is one of the Explorer’s enduring strengths. Folding rear seating allows the cabin to transition from passenger duty to luggage, sports equipment, shopping, or larger household items. This Explorer is Ford Gold Certified, adding a 172-point inspection, a 12-month/12,000-mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty, a 7-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty, 24/7 Roadside Assistance, and applicable FordPass Rewards Points.

Parks Plus adds protective treatments, VIN etching, roadside assistance, identity-theft protection and restoration, stolen-vehicle assistance, collision loyalty benefits, cabin sanitizer, and antimicrobial protectant.

For a buyer who wants three-row practicality without giving up strong performance, upscale comfort, and advanced technology, this 2023 Explorer Platinum is an excellent fit. It has the power for confident highway travel, the cabin flexibility for family use, and the refinement to feel at home anywhere from Wesley Chapel to downtown Tampa and beyond.