Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2017 Ford Explorer XLT interior. This SUV is a popular choice for families and those needing a reliable vehicle with plenty of space. We're going to explore what makes the interior of the 2017 XLT tick, from its design and features to its comfort and practicality. Whether you're considering buying one or just curious, this guide will give you the lowdown on everything inside.

Design and Aesthetics

When you first step inside the 2017 Ford Explorer XLT interior, you'll notice a design that's both functional and stylish. Ford aimed for a user-friendly layout, and they largely succeeded. The dashboard has a clean, uncluttered design, with well-placed controls that are easy to reach and operate. The materials used in the XLT are generally of good quality for its class, with a mix of soft-touch surfaces and durable plastics. While it might not have the luxurious feel of a high-end European SUV, the XLT's interior is certainly well-built and designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The color schemes available usually feature a mix of black, gray, and beige, offering a classic and versatile look. The dashboard features a central infotainment screen, flanked by air vents and various controls for climate and audio. The overall ambiance is one of comfort and practicality, making it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip. The XLT trim level typically offers a more upscale feel compared to the base models, with features like upgraded cloth seats and trim accents that elevate the interior's overall appearance. The focus is on providing a comfortable and accommodating space for both the driver and passengers, making it a great choice for families on the go. The design also incorporates plenty of storage solutions, such as a center console with ample space, door pockets, and various cubbies for stowing away personal items. This thoughtful approach to design contributes to the Explorer XLT's appeal as a practical and user-friendly SUV. The interior design of the 2017 Ford Explorer XLT emphasizes a balance between functionality and style. The layout is designed to be intuitive and easy to use, with a focus on providing a comfortable and practical experience for both the driver and passengers. The use of quality materials and the thoughtful arrangement of controls contribute to an overall sense of refinement and usability.

Seating and Comfort

One of the biggest selling points of the 2017 Ford Explorer XLT is its spacious and comfortable seating. The XLT trim typically offers cloth seats, which are known for their breathability and comfort. The front seats provide ample support and adjustment options, including power adjustments for the driver's seat in many configurations, allowing for a customized and comfortable driving position. The second-row seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, making them suitable for adults as well as children. The Explorer XLT also comes with a third row of seats, which is a key feature for larger families. While the third row is best suited for children, it does provide additional seating capacity when needed. The seats are reasonably comfortable and provide adequate support for short to medium-length trips. The layout of the seats also contributes to the overall comfort of the passengers. The design of the seats themselves is generally ergonomic, providing good support for the back and legs. The cushioning is firm but supportive, which helps to reduce fatigue on long drives. The positioning of the seats also contributes to the comfort of the passengers. The seats are placed in such a way that they offer a good view of the road, and the armrests provide a comfortable place to rest the arms. The materials used to construct the seats are also of good quality, which helps to enhance the overall comfort of the passengers. The cloth material is soft and breathable, while the leather is supple and luxurious. The seats are also designed to be easy to clean and maintain, which is a bonus for families with children. The 2017 Ford Explorer XLT interior is designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all occupants. The emphasis on spaciousness, supportive seating, and user-friendly features makes it a great choice for families or anyone who values comfort and practicality in their SUV.

Infotainment and Technology

The 2017 Ford Explorer XLT comes equipped with a decent array of infotainment and technology features. The central touchscreen display is the heart of the system, providing access to audio, navigation, and other vehicle functions. The screen size and resolution vary depending on the specific configuration, but it generally offers clear and easy-to-read information. Ford's SYNC system is integrated into the infotainment system, offering features such as Bluetooth connectivity, smartphone integration, and voice control. Bluetooth allows you to connect your phone to make hands-free calls and stream audio. Smartphone integration, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enables you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the infotainment system, allowing you to access apps, navigation, and other features directly from the touchscreen. Voice control allows you to control various vehicle functions using voice commands, such as making calls, changing the radio station, or adjusting the climate control. The infotainment system also includes features such as a USB port and an auxiliary audio input, providing multiple options for connecting your devices. Some models may also offer features such as a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The XLT trim typically offers a good balance of technology features, providing a convenient and connected experience without overwhelming the driver with too many options. The technology features in the 2017 Ford Explorer XLT are designed to enhance the driving experience and provide convenience and entertainment for both the driver and passengers. The infotainment system, with its touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and voice control, offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to access a variety of features and functions. The inclusion of USB ports, auxiliary audio inputs, and optional features such as a premium sound system and a rear-seat entertainment system further enhances the entertainment options available in the vehicle. The 2017 Ford Explorer XLT interior is equipped with a range of technology features designed to enhance convenience, connectivity, and entertainment for both the driver and passengers. The central touchscreen display provides easy access to audio, navigation, and other vehicle functions. Ford's SYNC system integrates Bluetooth, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and voice control for a user-friendly experience. Additionally, the inclusion of USB ports and auxiliary audio inputs, along with optional features like premium sound systems and rear-seat entertainment, elevates the overall technological package.

Storage and Practicality

The 2017 Ford Explorer XLT excels in offering practical storage solutions throughout the cabin. The center console is spacious, providing ample room for storing items such as phones, wallets, and other personal belongings. The door pockets are also generously sized, offering convenient storage for bottles, maps, and other essentials. The XLT also includes various cubbies and compartments throughout the interior, providing additional storage options. The rear cargo area is particularly noteworthy, offering plenty of space for luggage, groceries, or other items. The second and third rows of seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making the Explorer XLT a versatile vehicle for various needs. The practicality of the Explorer XLT is further enhanced by features such as a power liftgate, making it easy to load and unload cargo. The interior design also incorporates thoughtful touches such as cupholders and a variety of power outlets, catering to the needs of both the driver and passengers. The XLT's focus on practicality is evident in its user-friendly design, providing ample storage and convenience features that make it a great choice for families or anyone who needs a vehicle that can accommodate their belongings. The 2017 Ford Explorer XLT interior is designed to provide maximum practicality with its spacious storage options. The center console offers ample room, and the door pockets are generously sized for essentials. Additional cubbies and compartments provide extra storage. The rear cargo area is expansive and expandable with fold-down seats, ideal for luggage and groceries. Practical features like a power liftgate and various cupholders enhance the user experience, making the XLT a highly versatile choice for any storage need.

Trim Specific Features

The XLT trim of the 2017 Ford Explorer offers a balance of features that are a step up from the base models while remaining relatively affordable. Key features often include upgraded cloth seats, providing a more premium feel compared to the standard cloth. Power-adjustable driver's seats are a common addition, enhancing comfort and allowing for personalized driving positions. The exterior usually gets some upgrades as well, with features like alloy wheels and body-colored exterior mirrors. Inside, you can expect some tasteful trim accents to elevate the overall aesthetics. The XLT trim often comes with a more advanced infotainment system compared to the base models. This typically includes a larger touchscreen display and more connectivity options, such as additional USB ports and smartphone integration. Other features may include a rearview camera, which aids in parking and maneuvering, and a keyless entry system for added convenience. The XLT trim is designed to offer a blend of comfort, convenience, and style, making it a popular choice for buyers who want a well-equipped SUV without breaking the bank. The features included in the XLT trim add to the overall appeal of the vehicle, offering a more enjoyable driving and ownership experience. The trim-specific features in the 2017 Ford Explorer XLT interior enhance comfort, convenience, and aesthetics. Upgraded cloth seats and power-adjustable driver's seats offer a more premium feel. Additional features often include alloy wheels and body-colored exterior mirrors, enhancing the vehicle's exterior appearance. The XLT typically includes a more advanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, more connectivity options, a rearview camera, and a keyless entry system, offering a well-rounded and user-friendly experience.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, folks! The 2017 Ford Explorer XLT interior is a well-designed and practical space, perfect for families and anyone needing a versatile SUV. It offers a comfortable seating arrangement, a decent array of technology features, and plenty of storage options. The XLT trim strikes a good balance between features and affordability, making it a popular choice in the mid-size SUV segment. If you're in the market for a used SUV, the 2017 Explorer XLT is definitely worth considering. It's a reliable and capable vehicle that's sure to meet your needs. The interior's emphasis on functionality and comfort makes it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're running errands around town or embarking on a long road trip. The Ford Explorer XLT continues to be a great choice for those who value practicality, comfort, and a user-friendly design in their SUV. Overall, the 2017 Ford Explorer XLT interior combines practicality, comfort, and user-friendly features, making it a great choice for families and anyone needing a versatile and reliable SUV. It's a vehicle designed to make your daily drives and road trips as enjoyable as possible.