Ford Explorer 2.3L vs 3.0L V6
Explorer engines
Ford Explorer 2.3L vs 3.0L V6
Both tow 5,000 lb. The V6 is about acceleration — and for 2027 you can get it in a Platinum.
- 300 hp2.3L EcoBoost
- 400 hp3.0L V6
- 5,000 lbBoth engines
Home › Ford Explorer Guide › Explorer 2.3L vs 3.0L V6
Short answer: The 2027 Ford Explorer’s 2.3L EcoBoost four makes 300 hp and 310 lb-ft; the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 is rated 400 hp by Ford (400 hp in some states, depending on where it is sold). Both use a 10-speed automatic and both tow 5,000 lb. Pick the V6 for passing and merging power with a full load, not for towing.
Back to the 2027 Ford Explorer buyer’s guide.
Side by side
| 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 300 hp, 310 lb-ft | 400 hp (400 hp in some states) |
| Trims | Active, ST-Line, Tremor 800A, Platinum | ST standard; optional Tremor 801A and Platinum |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Towing | 5,000 lb | 5,000 lb |
| Fuel | Regular | Premium recommended for full rated power |
| Cheapest way in | Active 100A RWD, $38,465 | Platinum with V6 option, or ST RWD at $53,660 |
Ratings from reported 2027 Ford specs (Kelley Blue Book, Ford Authority, fall 2026). Ford has not published 2027 EPA fuel-economy figures for every configuration; we will add them when available.
Who should choose the 2.3L
- You mostly commute, run kids to practice and drive to Rice Lake or Eau Claire.
- You tow a small boat or utility trailer — it is rated for the same 5,000 lb as the V6.
- You want the lowest price and to run regular fuel.
Who should choose the V6
- You drive loaded with people and gear and want stronger passing on two-lane highways.
- You want the ST’s performance, or a quicker Platinum or Tremor.
- You accept premium fuel for full rated output.
What changed for 2027
Two things. The V6 is back as a Platinum option, so you no longer have to buy the ST to get it in a luxury Explorer. Ford rates it at 400 hp, or 400 hp in some states depending on where the vehicle is sold, so you may see both numbers online. Either way, the gap over the 2.3L is easy to feel.
Cost of the V6 by trim
| Path to V6 | 2027 MSRP | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ST RWD | $53,660 | V6 standard |
| ST 4WD | $55,660 | V6 standard |
| Tremor 801A | $56,460 | 4WD standard |
| Platinum + V6 | Platinum $50,660 / $52,660 + option | Option price not confirmed; ask for a priced build |
Towing more than 5,000 lb?
Neither engine changes the Explorer’s 5,000-lb rating. For a bigger camper or pontoon, compare the Explorer vs Expedition.
Fuel economy
EPA 2026 ratings (same powertrains for 2027): about 24 mpg combined 2.3L RWD, 23 with 4WD, about 20 for the V6 4WD. Towing with either: seats & cargo · towing & winter guide.
Explorer questions
How much horsepower does the 2027 Explorer have?
300 hp from the 2.3L EcoBoost; 400 hp from the 3.0L V6.
Why do some sites say 400 hp and others 400 hp?
Ford lists the 3.0L V6 at 400 hp, or 400 hp depending on the state where it is purchased. Same engine and same 5,000-lb tow rating.
Does the V6 Explorer tow more?
No. Both engines are rated 5,000 lb with the Class III Trailer Tow Package (confirm it is on the window sticker).
Which 2027 Explorer trims have the V6?
Standard on ST; optional on Tremor (801A) and Platinum.
Does the Explorer V6 need premium fuel?
Premium is recommended for full rated power; the 2.3L runs on regular.
Is the 2.3L enough for a three-row SUV?
For most driving, yes — 300 hp and 310 lb-ft with a 10-speed. Test-drive both loaded if passing power matters to you.
More Explorer guides
Price an Explorer at Swant Graber Ford
Swant Graber Ford, 1697 E Division Ave, Barron, WI 54812 · 715-537-9500 · Toll-free 800-858-9443
Sales: Mon–Fri 8:00–5:30, Sat 8:00–3:00 · Service: Mon–Fri 8:00–5:00
Invoice pricing on new vehicles with no mandatory dealer add-ons. The only dealer fee is the $127.50 doc fee. Tax, title and registration are set by the State of Wisconsin — see the Wisconsin out-the-door price explainer. We work with national and local lenders.
Sources
- Ford 2027 Explorer price list and order guide, as reported by U.S. News and Kelley Blue Book (accessed Oct 2026)
- Ford Authority, May 2026: slick roof, V6 back on Platinum
- Ford Authority, Sept 2026: garage door opener now a $145 option
- Cars.com, 2026 Explorer review: Active 100A, Tremor debut, 2.3L 300 hp / 310 lb-ft
Ford has not published every 2027 spec. Where a figure comes from a reported order guide or price list, it is labeled that way and will be updated when Ford posts it on ford.com.