There was a time, decades ago, when four-wheel drive vehicles, in general, weren’t exactly that common. In fact, Ford didn’t even bother offering a factory 4×4 truck until 1959, simply because consumers didn’t really want them or see a need for them. A lot has changed in the years since, however, and today, a lot of people won’t even consider purchasing a new vehicle if it isn’t all- or four-wheel drive. However, when it comes to the Ford Explorer ST, consumers still have a choice, and for good reason.
Back in the summer of 2021, the Ford Explorer ST dropped its standard four-wheel drive as The Blue Oval offered the more potent SUV in rear-wheel drive guise for the very first time, which makes some sense given the fact that it is a successful, performance-focused vehicle – one packing the 3.0L EcoBoost V6, which produces 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque and is mated to the 10-speed automatic transmission.
The benefits of a rear-wheel drive Ford Explorer ST include the fact that it’s cheaper – $2,000 less expensive than opting for four-wheel drive, in fact – and it’s also less complex with fewer moving parts that can break or wear out later on down the road. One could also make the argument that RWD is more fun in a vehicle like this, if one turns off traction control and other electronic nannies, at least. On the flip side, RWD isn’t quite as desirable for those that live in snowy climates given its traction disadvantage, and it won’t have quite as much resale value as an 4WD model.
Those that opt for a 4WD Ford Explorer ST, on the other hand, will enjoy better all-weather traction year-round – including in the winter – as well as what is likely to be superior off-the-line performance and improved resale value. Of course, they’ll also have to pay more for that upgrade, and run the risk of having to replace more pricey parts if they keep that vehicle long enough.
With all of this said, it’s worth asking – which Ford Explorer ST is ideal in your opinion, an rear-wheel drive model, or a rear-wheel drive configuration? Let us know by voting in the poll below!
Comments
My 2022 Ford Exployer is badged as a 4×4 not AWD. Is this the same or a product of the covid parts shortage. Example: missing screw in tow strap anchors welded to frame. Nothing there.
This was a very imprtant option for me as we live in a snowy mountainous area. My car is 2022 ST explorer with 24000 miles What else was left off?
It’s badged 4×4, but it’s technically AWD.
Ford has a quality control issue. Too many recalls. Production quotas appear have taken priority over quality issues. Farley needs to go.
There’s that old joke on why the Ford logo is “oval”..
When Henry was a young, aspiring apprentice, his teacher told him to always circle his mistakes.
I think AWD makes more sense in the Explorer. It helps putting the power down, is more adaptable, and with electronic control can help handling.
RWD.is mainly for being cheaper and doing burnouts.