Used 2023 Ford Explorer for Sale nearHouston, TX

Compare 2023 Ford Explorer Trims in Houston, TX

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

• Starting at $25,686
• Best MPG/MPGe: 21 city / 28 hwy
• Most Popular: XLT RWD

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 paying for luxury features. It's also the most popular trim in the lineup.

• Avg. market price: $25,686 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 21 city / 28 hwy
• Inventory: 114 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View XLT RWD listings

XLT AWD — "Who It's For"

The XLT AWD is ideal for buyers seeking all-wheel drive capability without a significant price increase. It balances features and performance well.

• Avg. market price: $27,098 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 27 hwy
• Inventory: 27 listings
• View XLT AWD listings

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

The Police Interceptor Utility AWD is suited for those needing a robust vehicle with utility features, though availability may be limited.

• Avg. market price: $28,729 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 17 city / 25 hwy
• Inventory: 12 listings — lower availability; may limit negotiating room
• View Police Interceptor Utility AWD listings

ST-Line AWD — "Who It's For"

The ST-Line AWD is perfect for shoppers wanting sporty aesthetics and advanced technology without the highest price tag.

• Avg. market price: $28,729 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 27 hwy
• Inventory: 15 listings — lower availability; may limit negotiating room
• View ST-Line AWD listings

Timberline AWD — "Who It's For"

The Timberline AWD is designed for those who want a sporty SUV with off-road capabilities and a rugged look.

• Avg. market price: $32,342 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 19 city / 22 hwy
• Inventory: 10 listings — lower availability; may limit negotiating room
• View Timberline AWD listings

Limited AWD — "Who It's For"

The Limited AWD is for buyers seeking luxury features and comfort in an SUV, making it a great choice for families.

• Avg. market price: $28,998 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 27 hwy
• Inventory: 14 listings — lower availability; may limit negotiating room
• View Limited AWD listings

ST AWD — "Who It's For"

The ST AWD is ideal for performance enthusiasts who want a powerful engine and sporty features in their SUV.

• Avg. market price: $37,204 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 18 city / 24 hwy
• Inventory: 39 listings
• View ST AWD listings

Platinum AWD — "Who It's For"

The Platinum AWD is the choice for those wanting the ultimate in luxury and technology in their SUV, perfect for premium buyers.

• Avg. market price: $28,729 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 18 city / 24 hwy
• Inventory: 27 listings
• View Platinum AWD listings

Trim Recommendations

Most Popular — XLT RWD

With 114 active listings, the XLT RWD is the clear volume leader in the lineup.

Browse XLT RWD listings

Best Budget Option — XLT RWD

At $25,686 avg market price — below the lineup median of $28,729 — it's the most accessible entry point.

Browse XLT RWD listings

Best for Fuel Economy — XLT RWD

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

Browse XLT RWD listings

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from November 5, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.

How much does the 2023 Ford Explorer cost?

Prices have softened 6.56% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 9,566 listings available, which suggests solid inventory availability.

Is the 2023 Ford Explorer a good car?

Yes — the 2023 Ford Explorer earns a 4.8/5 user rating, which points to strong owner satisfaction. The overview describes it as a midsize SUV that blends rear-wheel-drive-based handling with family-hauling practicality, and it also highlights broad appeal from available four-wheel drive and a flexible seating setup for up to seven passengers. It further stands out for its mix of capability, technology, and everyday usability, especially if you want a well-equipped family SUV with modern features. 35.4% 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 4.8/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.

The overview says the latest generation is the nicest to drive of all the generations and has a better reliability record than its predecessors. It also notes that the initial 2020 models had a relatively high number of gremlins, so condition and maintenance history still matter when you shop used. For long-term ownership, your biggest risk is buying a neglected example rather than the model itself.

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

Accident-free inventory is solid at 87% — always verify the vehicle history report.

You should prioritize a history report first, then focus on a pre-purchase inspection that checks for signs of prior damage, uneven wear, and any unresolved mechanical or electrical issues. Pay close attention to overall condition, since the cabin is described as not feeling as premium as its price suggests, and a careful inspection can help you separate a clean, well-kept SUV from one that has been used hard.

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

This is a moderate market, so you can be selective without expecting every listing to be a bargain.

• Deal availability: 35.4% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 9,566 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.56% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 87.0% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $31,009, 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 $31,009 sits slightly below last year's $33,188.

That softer pricing can help you buy at a more favorable point in the cycle, but it also means future resale gains may be more limited if the market stays soft. If you plan to sell later, buying well below the current average gives you more cushion against depreciation. Strong condition and clean history matter even more when the market is already leaning lower.

Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.8/5, 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:

• 35.4% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Accident-free inventory is solid at 87% — always verify the vehicle history report.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.56% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.8/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.

Consider the 2022 if:

• At $26,931, the 2022 costs less than the current year's $31,009 average.
• It offers broad trim choice and useful flexibility.

The bottom line:
You should lean toward the 2023 if you want the stronger current-market mix of satisfaction, inventory, and pricing momentum. If your priority is spending less upfront, the 2022 is the better value play, especially if you find one in good condition with the equipment you want.

How does the 2023 Ford Explorer compare to the 2023 Chevrolet Traverse?

Read our full side-by-side expert comparison here.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from November 10, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.