2021 Ford Explorer ST: Dimensions & Size Guide
Hey guys! Are you thinking about getting a 2021 Ford Explorer ST? Or maybe you're just curious about how big it actually is? Well, you've come to the right place! Let's dive into the nitty-gritty details of the 2021 Ford Explorer ST dimensions, so you know exactly what you're dealing with. We're talking length, width, height, and everything else that matters when you're trying to figure out if this sporty SUV fits your lifestyle – and your garage!
Exterior Dimensions
When it comes to the 2021 Ford Explorer ST, the exterior dimensions play a huge role in its overall appeal and functionality. Let's break it down so you get a clear picture of its size. Knowing these measurements is super important, whether you're navigating tight city streets or trying to squeeze into a parking spot. The length of the 2021 Ford Explorer ST is approximately 198.8 inches (or about 505 cm). This measurement determines how much space it occupies from bumper to bumper. It’s a pretty substantial length, giving you a roomy interior and a commanding presence on the road. The width, excluding the mirrors, is around 78.9 inches (roughly 200 cm). This dimension affects how easily you can maneuver through narrow lanes and parking spaces. Keep in mind that with the mirrors included, the total width will be larger, so always be aware of your surroundings! The height of the Explorer ST stands at about 69.9 inches (approximately 177 cm). This height contributes to the vehicle's ground clearance and overall cabin space. It's tall enough to give you a good view of the road but still reasonable for most garages and parking structures. Understanding these dimensions helps you visualize the vehicle in real-world scenarios, ensuring it meets your needs for space and maneuverability. So, next time you're picturing yourself behind the wheel, you'll know exactly how much room this beast commands!
Interior Dimensions
Okay, let's step inside! The interior dimensions of the 2021 Ford Explorer ST are where you really start to appreciate the SUV's design. This is where you and your passengers will be spending most of your time, so comfort and space are key. The headroom in the front row is approximately 41.2 inches. That's plenty of space for even taller drivers and passengers to sit comfortably without feeling cramped. In the second row, you get about 40.5 inches of headroom, which is still very generous and ensures that adults can ride comfortably in the back. The legroom in the front is around 43 inches, offering ample space to stretch out your legs on long drives. The second row provides about 39 inches of legroom, which is great for passengers of all sizes. Even the third row offers a decent 32.2 inches of legroom, making it suitable for kids or smaller adults on shorter trips. When it comes to shoulder room, the front row boasts about 61.8 inches, giving both the driver and passenger plenty of personal space. The second row offers approximately 61.9 inches of shoulder room, meaning three adults can sit side-by-side without feeling too squeezed. Finally, the third row has about 54.6 inches of shoulder room, which is best suited for two adults or three children. Cargo space is another critical factor. Behind the third row, you get about 18.2 cubic feet of space, which is enough for groceries or a few pieces of luggage. With the third row folded down, the cargo space expands to 47.9 cubic feet, providing plenty of room for larger items. If you fold down both the second and third rows, you get a whopping 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space, making the Explorer ST perfect for hauling gear or moving furniture. All these interior dimensions combine to create a comfortable and versatile space for both passengers and cargo, making the 2021 Ford Explorer ST a practical choice for families and adventurers alike. Isn't it great to know you can fit everything you need without sacrificing comfort?
Cargo Space and Capacity
Let's talk about cargo space in the 2021 Ford Explorer ST because, let's face it, space is king! Whether you're hauling groceries, sports gear, or luggage for a family road trip, the Explorer ST has got you covered with its versatile cargo options. Behind the third row, you'll find around 18.2 cubic feet of space. This is perfect for your everyday errands, like grocery runs or carrying a stroller. It’s enough to handle the essentials without compromising passenger comfort. Need more room? No problem! Fold down the third-row seats, and you'll open up a generous 47.9 cubic feet of cargo space. This configuration is ideal for weekend getaways, camping trips, or hauling larger items like sports equipment or small furniture. It's a significant upgrade that transforms the Explorer ST into a serious cargo-carrying machine. But wait, there's more! If you need maximum cargo capacity, fold down both the second and third rows. This unlocks a massive 87.8 cubic feet of space. This is where the Explorer ST truly shines, offering enough room to move furniture, transport large boxes, or carry all the gear you need for a serious adventure. It’s like having a mini-van without sacrificing the sporty look and performance. To give you a better idea, 87.8 cubic feet is roughly equivalent to fitting about 30 carry-on suitcases. Imagine all the possibilities! The cargo area is also designed with practicality in mind. It features a wide opening and a low load floor, making it easier to load and unload heavy or bulky items. There are also several tie-down points to secure your cargo and prevent it from shifting during transit. Plus, many Explorer ST models come with a power liftgate, adding even more convenience to your cargo-hauling experience. So, whether you're a busy parent, an outdoor enthusiast, or just someone who needs a versatile vehicle, the 2021 Ford Explorer ST’s cargo space and capacity are sure to impress!
Weight and Ground Clearance
Alright, let's get into some of the more technical aspects of the 2021 Ford Explorer ST: weight and ground clearance. These factors can significantly impact the vehicle's performance, handling, and overall capability. The curb weight of the 2021 Ford Explorer ST typically ranges from 4,701 to 4,923 pounds, depending on the specific configuration and options. This weight reflects the vehicle's mass when it's ready to drive, including all standard equipment, fluids, and a full tank of gas. Knowing the curb weight is important because it affects acceleration, braking, and fuel efficiency. A heavier vehicle generally requires more power to accelerate and more effort to stop, but it can also provide a more stable and comfortable ride. This is where the Explorer ST strikes a good balance. The gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is another important number to consider. The GVWR is the maximum allowable weight of the vehicle, including the curb weight plus the weight of passengers, cargo, and any additional accessories. For the 2021 Ford Explorer ST, the GVWR is around 6,160 to 6,400 pounds. Exceeding the GVWR can put excessive strain on the vehicle's components, leading to decreased performance and potential safety hazards, so always stay within the limit. Ground clearance is the distance between the lowest point of the vehicle's chassis and the ground. The 2021 Ford Explorer ST has a ground clearance of approximately 8.3 inches. This clearance allows the Explorer ST to handle various road conditions, including gravel roads, snow, and minor off-road trails. While it's not designed for extreme off-roading, the Explorer ST's ground clearance provides enough versatility for everyday adventures. A higher ground clearance can also improve visibility and make it easier to navigate obstacles like speed bumps and potholes. These weight and ground clearance specifications contribute to the 2021 Ford Explorer ST's overall driving experience, blending performance with practicality. It's all about having the right balance for your needs!
How the Dimensions Impact Driving and Handling
So, how do all these dimensions actually affect the way the 2021 Ford Explorer ST drives and handles? Let's break it down in a way that makes sense. The overall size of the Explorer ST plays a big role in its on-road presence and maneuverability. Its length and width give it a solid, planted feel on the highway, making it stable and comfortable for long trips. However, its size can also make it a bit challenging to navigate tight parking spaces or narrow city streets. You'll want to be mindful of your surroundings! The wheelbase, which is the distance between the front and rear axles, also influences handling. A longer wheelbase, like the one on the Explorer ST, generally provides better stability and a smoother ride, especially at higher speeds. It helps to absorb bumps and road imperfections, making for a more comfortable experience for both the driver and passengers. The height of the Explorer ST affects its center of gravity. While the height provides a good view of the road, a higher center of gravity can also increase body roll during cornering. However, Ford has engineered the Explorer ST to minimize this effect, with a sport-tuned suspension that helps to keep the vehicle stable and controlled. The weight distribution of the Explorer ST is also carefully balanced to optimize handling. By distributing the weight evenly between the front and rear axles, the vehicle maintains better grip and responsiveness, especially during acceleration and braking. This contributes to a more confident and engaging driving experience. The ground clearance also plays a role in driving dynamics. The Explorer ST's 8.3 inches of ground clearance provide enough versatility to handle various road conditions, but it's not so high that it compromises handling. The suspension is tuned to provide a balance between comfort and control, making it suitable for both daily commuting and spirited driving. All these dimensions and engineering factors work together to create a driving experience that is both enjoyable and practical. The 2021 Ford Explorer ST is designed to handle a variety of driving situations with confidence and poise!
Conclusion
Wrapping things up, the 2021 Ford Explorer ST is a pretty impressive SUV when you consider its dimensions and how they all come together. From the exterior dimensions that give it a commanding presence on the road to the spacious interior that keeps everyone comfortable, it’s clear that Ford put a lot of thought into the design. The cargo space is super versatile, adapting to whatever you need to haul, whether it’s groceries or gear for a weekend adventure. And let's not forget about the weight and ground clearance, which contribute to its balanced handling and capability in various driving conditions. Understanding these dimensions can really help you decide if the Explorer ST is the right fit for your lifestyle. It’s not just about numbers; it’s about how those numbers translate into real-world usability and driving experience. Whether you're navigating city streets, embarking on a road trip, or simply running errands, the 2021 Ford Explorer ST offers a blend of practicality and performance that's hard to beat. So, if you're in the market for a sporty and versatile SUV, definitely give the Explorer ST a closer look. You might just find that it’s the perfect vehicle for your needs!
