Ford has made several additions to the 2021 Explorer lineup, including a new model named the Enthusiast ST. Offered as a more affordable alternative to the full-blown ST, it has the same styling, suspension and engine, but skips on a few features to cut down on the price.
It’s MSRP is set at US$ 48,750, excluding
handling and destination, which makes it US$ 4,080 cheaper than the 2021 Explorer
ST. As with the former, the Enthusiast ST makes use of a 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine
delivering 400 HP and 563 Nm, paired to a 10-speed automatic
transmission. It has a 230 km/h top speed and can tow up to 2,540 kg with the standard Class III Trailer Tow Package.
Also included as standard are 20-inch
wheels, quad exhaust pipes and ST logos, projection lamps on the side mirrors,
part-leather upholstery with contrast stitching, heated steering wheel with
paddle shifters and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Furthermore, you
also get Co-Pilot360 suite of safety gear brings hill start assist, automatic
emergency braking, blind spot information, lane keep assist, forward collision
warning and reversing camera with built-in lens washer.
To lower the Enthusiast ST’s price, the
Blue Oval omitted the standard ST’s “High Equipment” package that adds a bunch
of comfort and tech features such as 2nd row heated seats, a B&O sound
system with 980Watt 14 speakers, a wireless charging pad and more.
For 2021, the new Explorer Enthusiast ST
is joined by the rear-wheel drive and hybrid versions of the Explorer Platinum.
Having the RWD model will set you back at least US$ 52,480, while the electrified
2021 Explorer Platinum can be had from US$ 53,085. All of them are already
available for order, and will arrive at dealers across the nation this summer.
