Used 2023 Ford Explorer for Sale nearColumbia, SC

Compare 2023 Ford Explorer Trims in Columbia, SC

The Explorer lineup offers a range of options from budget-friendly trims to more luxurious models, all with versatile AWD and RWD choices.

• Starting at $27,895
• Best MPG/MPGe: 21 city / 28 hwy
• Most Popular: XLT AWD

Trim Overview

Prices updated weekly from CarGurus listings.

Quick Compare Table

Listing prices sourced from CarGurus — updated weekly. OEM specs from manufacturer data.

Missing data displayed as "—".

Trim Deep Dives

XLT RWD — "Who It's For"

The XLT RWD is the pick for shoppers who want a well-equipped SUV without the AWD price premium. It's also the most affordable trim in the lineup.

• Avg. market price: $31,599 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 21 city / 28 hwy
• Inventory: 182 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View XLT RWD listings

XLT AWD — "Who It's For"

The XLT AWD is the pick for shoppers who want all-wheel drive without breaking the bank. It's the most popular trim, offering a great balance of features and price.

• Avg. market price: $29,381 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 27 hwy
• Inventory: 331 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View XLT AWD listings

Police Interceptor Utility AWD — "Who It's For"

The Police Interceptor Utility AWD is the pick for shoppers who need a rugged vehicle for law enforcement or heavy-duty use. It offers specialized features for demanding environments.

• Avg. market price: $31,877 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 17 city / 25 hwy
• Inventory: 54 listings
• View Police Interceptor Utility AWD listings

Limited RWD — "Who It's For"

The Limited RWD is the pick for shoppers who want a standard SUV experience with added luxury features. It balances comfort and capability well.

• Avg. market price: $31,877 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 21 city / 28 hwy
• Inventory: 58 listings
• View Limited RWD listings

ST-Line AWD — "Who It's For"

The ST-Line AWD is the pick for shoppers who want a sporty look and feel without the full performance upgrade. It offers a stylish design with practical features.

• Avg. market price: $31,877 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 27 hwy
• Inventory: 103 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View ST-Line AWD listings

Limited AWD — "Who It's For"

The Limited AWD is the pick for shoppers who want luxury and capability in one package. It offers premium features and all-weather performance.

• Avg. market price: $31,877 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 27 hwy
• Inventory: 104 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View Limited AWD listings

ST AWD — "Who It's For"

The ST AWD is the pick for shoppers who want high performance and luxury features. It delivers a powerful engine and a host of tech options.

• Avg. market price: $27,895 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 18 city / 24 hwy
• Inventory: 228 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View ST AWD listings

Platinum AWD — "Who It's For"

The Platinum AWD is the pick for shoppers who want the ultimate in luxury and technology. It offers top-tier features and a refined driving experience.

• Avg. market price: $36,946 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 18 city / 24 hwy
• Inventory: 137 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View Platinum AWD listings

Trim Recommendations

Most Popular — XLT AWD

With 331 active listings, the XLT AWD is the clear volume leader in the lineup.

Browse XLT AWD listings

Best Budget Option — ST AWD

At $27,895 avg market price — below the lineup median of $31,877 — it's the most accessible entry point.

Browse ST AWD listings

Best for Fuel Economy — XLT RWD

The XLT RWD offers the best fuel efficiency in the lineup with 21/28 MPG/MPGe.

Browse XLT RWD listings

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 8, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.

How much does the 2023 Ford Explorer cost?

Prices have softened 6.18% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 9,779 listings available, which suggests solid inventory for shoppers comparing trims and prices.

Is the 2023 Ford Explorer a good car?

Yes — 4.75/5 is a strong user rating, and the 2023 Explorer’s appeal centers on its mix of space, technology, and driving polish. The overview describes it as a midsize SUV with rear-wheel-drive-based handling, broad family-hauling capability, and a well-equipped base setup. It also highlights strong available power, flexible seating for up to seven, and a long list of standard driver-assistance and convenience features.

For you, that means the Explorer makes the most sense if you want a well-rounded used midsize SUV that balances everyday usability with a more engaging driving feel than many rivals. 35.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals, which gives you some room to shop selectively.

Is the 2023 Ford Explorer reliable?

Owners rate it 4.75/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.

The overview says the 2023 Explorer has a better reliability record than its predecessors, while also noting that the initial 2020 models had a relatively high number of gremlins. That points to a model year that benefits from the platform’s maturation and a more settled ownership experience than earlier versions.

For used buyers, the main long-term risk is making sure you’re not inheriting a poorly maintained example, especially if it has higher mileage or a complicated option set.

What should I look for when buying a used 2023 Ford Explorer?

Accident-free inventory is solid at 88.4% — always verify the vehicle history report.

You should still check the history report carefully, because even a strong accident-free share doesn’t guarantee the specific vehicle you’re considering has a clean past. Prioritize a thorough pre-purchase inspection, especially for signs of uneven wear, neglected maintenance, or electronic issues. Focus on overall condition, service records, and how well the features and driver-assistance systems work in real-world use.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2023 Ford Explorer?

This looks like a moderate, selective buyer’s market, so you can shop patiently but should move quickly on standout listings.

• Deal availability: 35.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 9,779 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.18% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 88.4% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $31,511, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2023 Ford Explorer's resale value?

The current average of $31,511 sits slightly below last year's $33,589.

That price movement suggests the market has cooled a bit, which can help you buy at a more favorable entry point today. For future resale, a softer purchase price can reduce your depreciation exposure if you keep the vehicle in strong condition and maintain it well. Demand should remain supported by the Explorer’s broad appeal, especially among shoppers who want space, features, and a polished driving experience.

Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.75/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Should I buy a 2023 Ford Explorer or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2023 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2023 if:

• 35.8% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Accident-free inventory is solid at 88.4% — always verify the vehicle history report.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.18% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.75/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.

Consider the 2022 if:

• At $27,612, the 2022 costs less than the current year's $31,511 average.
• It offers a broad trim spread and strong family-focused versatility.

The bottom line: Choose the 2023 if you want the stronger all-around package and are comfortable paying more for a newer, better-rated example. If your priority is saving money upfront, the 2022 is the better value path and still gives you the Explorer’s core strengths.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from October 6, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.