Introduction: The Most Refined Explorer ST Yet
The Ford Explorer ST has been a top choice for enthusiasts looking for performance, practicality, and advanced technology in an SUV. For 2024, Ford introduced a mid-cycle refresh, giving the Explorer ST a more aggressive exterior, an upgraded interior, and cutting-edge technology while retaining its 400-hp EcoBoost engine.
With a larger grille, redesigned headlights, Google-powered infotainment, and improved drive modes, the 2024 Explorer ST feels more premium, modern, and dynamic than ever before. Let’s take a deep dive into the updates that make this model stand out.
Key Updates for 2024
The 2024 Explorer ST brings both aesthetic and technological advancements without compromising its high-performance DNA.
1. Facelifted Exterior Design 🎨
- A larger grille with a more aggressive mesh pattern enhances its sporty look.
- Redesigned LED headlights provide better visibility and a sharper, modern aesthetic.
- Updated front and rear bumper styling for a more streamlined appearance.
- New wheel designs, including a 21-inch performance alloy option.
- Fresh exterior color options, including new metallic shades and matte finishes.
2. High-Tech Interior and Infotainment Overhaul 📱
- New 13.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the previous 10.1-inch display.
- Built-in Google Integration, including:
- Google Maps for real-time navigation with traffic updates.
- Google Assistant for hands-free controls and smart commands.
- Google Play Store access for additional apps and entertainment.
- Upgraded 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with enhanced customization options.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain standard.
- New interior material options, including premium leather with contrast stitching.
3. Performance and Handling Updates 🚀
- 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged EcoBoost V6 retained, producing 400 HP and 415 lb-ft of torque.
- 10-Speed Automatic Transmission tuned for smoother shifts and quicker response.
- Newly refined Drive Modes:
- Sport Mode: Sharper throttle response and increased steering feedback.
- Snow/Sand Mode: Improved traction control for off-road stability.
- Tow Mode: Enhanced stability for towing up to 5,600 lbs.
- Slightly improved suspension tuning, making the ride more comfortable without sacrificing sportiness.
Exterior Design: A Bolder, More Aggressive Presence
The 2024 Explorer ST has undergone aesthetic enhancements that make it look more refined and modern.
Exterior Highlights:
✔ Wider, more prominent grille – Enhances cooling and aggressive styling.
✔ Sharper LED headlights and taillights – Better visibility and a high-tech look.
✔ Gloss black exterior accents – Standard on ST models for a sporty contrast.
✔ Quad Exhaust Tips – Emphasizing its performance DNA.
✔ New ST-Specific Alloy Wheels – Lighter and more aerodynamic.
✔ More aerodynamic bodywork – Reduces drag for better fuel efficiency and stability.
Interior: Technology, Comfort, and Performance-Oriented Styling
The 2024 Explorer ST takes a big leap in technology and comfort, making the cabin feel more premium and driver-focused.
Interior Features:
✔ 13.2-inch Google-powered touchscreen – Faster, more intuitive interface.
✔ 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster – Customizable with real-time performance data.
✔ Wireless charging pad – Standard across all trims.
✔ Premium leather-wrapped seats with ST badging – Improved bolstering for spirited driving.
✔ Panoramic Moonroof (Optional) – Adds an open, airy feel to the cabin.
✔ Upgraded B&O 14-Speaker Sound System – Richer, more immersive audio quality.
✔ Heated and Ventilated Front Seats – Enhanced comfort in all seasons.
✔ Second-row captain’s chairs (optional) – Reducing seating to six passengers for a luxury feel.
Driving Experience: A Balanced Blend of Power and Refinement
The 2024 Explorer ST retains the thrilling performance of its predecessor while refining the ride quality, steering feel, and traction control systems.
Performance Stats:
- 0-60 MPH: ~5.5 seconds.
- Quarter-Mile Time: ~13.8 seconds.
- Top Speed: 143 MPH (electronically limited).
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates): 18 MPG City / 26 MPG Highway (RWD) | 17 MPG City / 24 MPG Highway (AWD).
Performance Enhancements:
- Smoother transmission calibration for more precise shifts.
- Improved traction control in Snow/Sand and Sport modes.
- Retuned electric power steering for better road feedback.
- New brake system calibration for sharper stopping power.
Aftermarket Potential: How Enthusiasts Are Modifying the 2024 ST
As with previous years, the 2024 Explorer ST community continues to push performance boundaries with aftermarket upgrades.
Popular Modifications:
🔹 ECU Tuning (Livernois, 5 Star, Palm Beach Dyno) – Unlocks an additional 50-100 HP.
🔹 High-Flow Downpipes & Exhaust Systems – Enhances airflow and deepens the exhaust tone.
🔹 Larger Intercoolers – Reduces heat soak, improving consistent performance.
🔹 Upgraded Turbos (CR Performance, Garrett) – Potential to exceed 600 HP with supporting mods.
🔹 Lowering Springs and Coilovers – Reduces body roll and improves cornering.
Common Issues & Reliability
While the 2024 Explorer ST has improved build quality, a few common concerns have been noted:
❌ Infotainment Software Bugs – Early adopters reported minor glitches in Google integration (fixable via updates).
❌ Stock Intercooler Limitations – Heat soak remains an issue in aggressive driving.
❌ Brake Wear Under High Performance Use – Enthusiasts upgrading to performance brake pads.
Why the 2024 Ford Explorer ST Stands Out
The 2024 Explorer ST is a mid-cycle refresh done right. With a more aggressive exterior, premium tech upgrades, and refinements in driving dynamics, it offers the best balance of performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology in its class.
Final Thoughts:
âś… Facelifted design with aggressive new styling.
âś… Google-powered infotainment system with a 13.2-inch screen.
âś… Retained 400-hp twin-turbo V6 for thrilling performance.
âś… Improved drive modes and traction control for a more refined ride.
âś… Aftermarket potential remains strong for tuning enthusiasts.
The 2024 Explorer ST is an exciting evolution of Ford’s performance SUV, keeping it competitive against European rivals like the BMW X5 M40i and Audi SQ7 while offering American muscle at a fraction of the price.
What Do You Think? If you own a 2024 Explorer ST, share your experiences in the ExplorerST.Club forums! Let’s keep the ST community growing. 🚀🔥
