Used 2023 Ford Explorer for Sale near South Carolina

Compare 2023 Ford Explorer Trims

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

• Starting at $26,661
• 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 budget-friendly SUV without sacrificing essential features.

• Avg. market price: $26,661 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 21 city / 28 hwy
• Inventory: 1,850 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 capability without a hefty price tag.

• Avg. market price: $30,327 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 27 hwy
• Inventory: 7,867 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View XLT AWD listings

Limited RWD — "Who It's For"

The Limited RWD is the pick for shoppers who want a well-rounded SUV with standard luxury features without going overboard on price.

• Avg. market price: $29,163 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 21 city / 28 hwy
• Inventory: 635 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 feel with the added benefit of all-wheel drive.

• Avg. market price: $34,294 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 27 hwy
• Inventory: 1,694 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View ST-Line AWD listings

Timberline AWD — "Who It's For"

The Timberline AWD is the pick for shoppers who want off-road capability with added luxury features.

• Avg. market price: $34,373 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 19 city / 22 hwy
• Inventory: 631 listings
• View Timberline AWD listings

Limited AWD — "Who It's For"

The Limited AWD is the pick for shoppers who want a balance of luxury and practicality with all-wheel drive.

• Avg. market price: $32,871 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: 20 city / 27 hwy
• Inventory: 1,764 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 a performance-oriented SUV with a powerful engine.

• Avg. market price: $39,202 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: —
• Inventory: 2,891 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 a luxurious SUV with premium features and all-wheel drive.

• Avg. market price: $38,229 (updated weekly)
• MPG/MPGe: —
• Inventory: 1,628 listings — widest selection in the lineup
• View Platinum AWD listings

Trim Recommendations

Most Popular — XLT AWD

With 7,867 active listings, the XLT AWD is the clear volume leader in the lineup.

Browse XLT AWD listings

Best Budget Option — XLT RWD

At $26,661 avg market price — below the lineup median of $33,582 — it's the most accessible entry point.

Browse XLT RWD listings

Best for Fuel Economy — XLT RWD

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

Browse XLT RWD listings

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 12, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.

How much does the 2023 Ford Explorer cost?

Prices have softened 5.49% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 9,617 listings available, which gives you a solid amount of inventory to compare.

Is the 2023 Ford Explorer a good car?

Yes — the 2023 Ford Explorer earns a 4.75/5 user rating, which supports its appeal as a well-rounded midsize SUV. The overview points to rear-wheel-drive-based handling, family-hauling practicality, available four-wheel drive with a Terrain Management System, and a broad mix of powertrains, including a capable base engine, a quick twin-turbo V6, and an efficiency-minded hybrid. It also stands out for its modern tech and flexible seating for up to seven, with many shoppers choosing the six-passenger layout. 33.3% 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, which is encouraging if you want a used three-row SUV with modern features. It also notes that early 2020 models had more gremlins, so condition and maintenance history still matter when you shop this generation.

For used buyers, the main long-term ownership risk is buying a neglected example, so a careful inspection and service-record review are especially important.

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

Accident-free inventory is solid at 89.3% — always verify the vehicle history report.

You should still run a history report on any listing you like, even if it looks clean on paper. Prioritize a pre-purchase inspection that checks maintenance records, electronics, and overall wear, since condition matters more than mileage alone on a family SUV like this. Focus on how well the vehicle has been cared for, especially if you plan to keep it for the long haul.

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

This is a moderate, selective buyer's market, so you can shop patiently but should move quickly on the best listings.

• Deal availability: 33.3% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 9,617 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 5.49% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 89.3% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $32,006, 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 $32,006 sits slightly below last year's $33,867.

That softer pricing can help you buy in at a more favorable point, but it also suggests resale values have eased compared with the prior year. If you plan to sell later, a well-kept example should hold up better than one with visible wear or a spotty history. Strong condition and documented maintenance will matter most when it comes time to attract the next buyer.

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:

• 33.3% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Accident-free inventory is solid at 89.3% — always verify the vehicle history report.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 5.49% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.75/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.

Consider the 2022 if:

• At $28,098, the 2022 costs less than the current year's $32,006 average.
• It offers a broad trim spread for shoppers who want more configuration choices.

The bottom line: If you want the better-balanced buy, the 2023 is the stronger choice because it combines softer pricing, solid inventory, and strong owner satisfaction. If your top priority is spending less up front, the 2022 is the more budget-friendly path and may be worth a closer look.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 11, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.