Let's dive deep into the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT interior. This popular SUV offers a blend of comfort, technology, and practicality that made it a favorite among families and adventure-seekers alike. We're going to explore every nook and cranny of the interior, from the seating and dashboard to the tech features and cargo space. Whether you're a potential buyer, a current owner, or simply curious, this detailed look will give you a comprehensive understanding of what the 2013 Explorer XLT has to offer inside.

Seating and Comfort

The 2013 Ford Explorer XLT boasts three rows of seating, making it capable of carrying up to seven passengers. The front seats are designed with comfort in mind, often featuring power adjustments and lumbar support to accommodate drivers and passengers of various sizes. The seats are typically upholstered in cloth, though leather options were available as part of upgrade packages. The quality of the materials used in the seating contributes to a pleasant driving experience, even on longer journeys. For those chilly mornings, heated front seats were also an option, adding an extra layer of comfort.

The second-row seats offer ample legroom and headroom, ensuring that adult passengers can ride comfortably. Many models feature a 40/20/40 split-folding second-row bench, providing flexibility for carrying passengers and cargo simultaneously. This split-folding design allows for easy access to the third-row seats. Speaking of the third row, while it's best suited for children or smaller adults, it still provides a valuable seating option when needed. Getting into the third row can be a bit of a squeeze for larger individuals, but the Explorer's design makes it as accessible as possible.

Overall, the seating in the 2013 Explorer XLT prioritizes comfort and versatility. The ability to configure the seats in various ways makes it easy to adapt the interior to different needs, whether you're hauling a soccer team or transporting furniture. The quality of the materials and the thoughtful design contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable ride for everyone on board. The lumbar support is so important, I remember my uncle drove from another city just because of the explorer lumbar support.

Dashboard and Controls

The dashboard of the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT is thoughtfully laid out, with all the essential controls within easy reach of the driver. The design is functional and intuitive, making it easy to navigate the various features and settings. The instrument cluster features clear and easy-to-read gauges, providing essential information at a glance. The center console houses the infotainment system, climate controls, and other important functions.

The materials used on the dashboard and throughout the interior are generally of good quality, giving the Explorer XLT a premium feel. While it's not a luxury vehicle, the interior is well-appointed and designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The placement of the controls is ergonomic, ensuring that the driver can easily adjust settings without taking their eyes off the road. The steering wheel typically includes controls for the audio system, cruise control, and other features, further enhancing convenience.

One of the standout features of the 2013 Explorer XLT is the MyFord Touch infotainment system (if equipped). This system integrates various functions, such as navigation, audio, and climate control, into a central touchscreen display. While the MyFord Touch system had its share of critics, it offered a modern and sophisticated way to manage the vehicle's features. Ford Sync voice command system works really well with the touch screen system, and it helps me a lot with my daily navigation. The system allows drivers to use voice commands to make calls, play music, and control other functions, adding an extra layer of convenience and safety.

Technology and Features

The 2013 Ford Explorer XLT is packed with technology and features designed to enhance the driving experience. Standard features include a rearview camera, which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. The audio system typically includes a CD player, satellite radio, and USB port, providing plenty of entertainment options. Bluetooth connectivity allows for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

As mentioned earlier, the MyFord Touch infotainment system (if equipped) is a major highlight. This system offers a range of features, including navigation, voice control, and smartphone integration. While it's not without its quirks, the MyFord Touch system provides a modern and user-friendly interface for managing the vehicle's various functions. Many models also include features like dual-zone automatic climate control, which allows the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures independently. Remote start is another popular option, allowing you to warm up or cool down the vehicle before you even get in.

Safety is also a priority in the 2013 Explorer XLT. In addition to the rearview camera, it includes features like stability control, traction control, and antilock brakes. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. Airbags throughout the cabin provide additional protection in the event of a collision. Overall, the 2013 Explorer XLT offers a comprehensive suite of technology and features designed to enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. This is a solid choice for a family, and I would highly recommend it to all my relatives.

Cargo Space and Storage

Cargo space is an important consideration for any SUV, and the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT delivers in this area. With all three rows of seats in place, there's still a decent amount of cargo room behind the third row, enough for groceries or a few pieces of luggage. When you need more space, the third-row seats can be folded down to create a larger cargo area. For maximum cargo capacity, the second-row seats can also be folded down, providing a spacious and versatile area for hauling larger items.

In addition to the main cargo area, the 2013 Explorer XLT offers plenty of storage compartments throughout the interior. The center console includes a storage bin and cupholders, providing convenient places to store small items. The door panels also feature storage pockets, perfect for holding water bottles or maps. The glove compartment offers additional storage space for important documents and other items.

The flexibility of the cargo area is one of the 2013 Explorer XLT's strongest points. The ability to configure the seats in various ways makes it easy to adapt the interior to different needs. Whether you're carrying passengers, cargo, or a combination of both, the Explorer XLT provides ample space and versatility. The maximum cargo space is 80.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded.

Overall Impression

The interior of the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT offers a compelling blend of comfort, technology, and practicality. The seating is comfortable and versatile, the dashboard and controls are well-designed, and the technology features enhance the driving experience. The cargo space is ample and adaptable, making it easy to haul passengers and cargo. While it may not be the most luxurious SUV on the market, the 2013 Explorer XLT provides a well-rounded and satisfying interior that's sure to please a wide range of drivers and passengers. If you're looking for a capable and comfortable SUV, the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT is definitely worth considering. It's a vehicle that can handle the demands of daily life while providing a pleasant and enjoyable driving experience. Interior design is superb and ergonomic. I can tell Ford puts a lot of effort in the car interior.

Whether you're hauling kids to school, embarking on a road trip, or simply running errands around town, the 2013 Ford Explorer XLT is a reliable and versatile vehicle that can handle it all. The interior is a comfortable and inviting space that makes every journey a pleasure. I love it and strongly recommend it to my readers.