2018 Ford Explorer XLT: The Ultimate Family Companion for St. Louis Adventures

Imagine pulling out of your driveway in Ladue, MO, on a crisp autumn morning, the sun glinting off the pristine Oxford White finish of your 2018 Ford Explorer XLT. Whether you are heading to a local boutique or preparing for a weekend excursion, this SUV commands a presence that is both sophisticated and immensely capable. For families who call the tree-lined streets of our local communities home, this vehicle represents more than just transportation; it is a mobile sanctuary designed to handle the diverse needs of a busy suburban lifestyle.

The Ford Explorer has long been a staple in the driveways of Chesterfield, MO, and for good reason. It balances the ruggedness required for Midwest winters with the refined interior comfort expected by modern professionals. This particular XLT trim, finished in a timeless white, offers a clean and professional aesthetic that looks just as appropriate parked at the country club as it does at a youth sports complex. It provides the space you need for growing families without sacrificing the maneuverability required to navigate busy shopping centers or narrow residential avenues.

Driving through the historic districts of the area requires a vehicle that offers visibility and confidence. The 2018 Ford Explorer XLT provides an elevated seating position that gives you a commanding view of the road ahead, ensuring you feel secure whether you are navigating a quick school drop-off or embarking on a long-distance road trip. This is a vehicle built for those who value reliability, space, and a touch of American-made luxury in their daily lives.

Robust Power and Refined Control

Under the hood of this 2018 Ford Explorer XLT lies a formidable 3.5L V-6 DOHC engine, delivering a smooth and responsive 290HP. This powerplant is engineered with variable valve control and an aluminum engine block, ensuring a balance of efficiency and strength that is perfectly suited for the rolling hills of the Missouri landscape. When you are merging onto the highway for a commute from Chesterfield, MO, the 6-speed automatic transmission provides seamless gear changes, while the SelectShift Sequential shift control allows for more manual engagement when the road demands it.

Capability is at the heart of the Explorer experience, especially with the inclusion of Four Wheel Drive. This system is augmented by a Terrain Management System and an Automatic full-time 4WD setup that allows you to adapt to changing conditions at the turn of a dial. Whether you are dealing with a sudden winter dusting or navigating a rain-slicked road near the river bluffs in St Charles, MO, the Driver selectable drivetrain mode ensures you have the traction and stability needed to keep your family safe.

The chassis is equally impressive, featuring an Independent front suspension with struts and a Multi-link rear suspension. This setup, combined with Gas-pressurized shock absorbers and Front and rear anti-roll bars, ensures that the ride remains composed and comfortable, even when the pavement becomes uneven. The Electric power-assist steering system is speed-sensitive, providing light and easy handling in parking lots while firming up for a more connected feel at higher speeds. With a 112.8-inch wheelbase, the Explorer feels planted and stable, offering a confident driving experience that makes every journey a pleasure.

Seamless Connectivity for the Modern Commute

In today's fast-paced world, staying connected is not a luxury—it is a necessity. The 2018 Ford Explorer XLT is equipped with the Driver Connect Package, which brings a suite of advanced technology to your fingertips. The centerpiece of the cabin is the 8 inch primary display featuring a Primary monitor touchscreen. This interface is home to the SYNC voice activated audio controls, allowing you to manage your media and vehicle settings without ever taking your eyes off the road.

The gauge cluster is a masterpiece of information delivery, featuring 2 Driver Configurable 4.2in Color LCD Displays. These screens allow you to customize the information you see, from fuel economy data to trip details, right in your line of sight. For those who enjoy their favorite playlists or podcasts during a long drive through Maplewood, MO, the SYNC Communication & Entertainment System offers Bluetooth® wireless audio streaming and Handsfree Bluetooth® handsfree wireless device connectivity.

The audio experience is further enhanced by a 7 speaker system and SiriusXM capability, ensuring you have access to a vast array of entertainment options. With 2 USB ports conveniently located, keeping your devices charged and ready for use is effortless. The inclusion of SYNC Connect and FordPass App mobile app access means you can interact with your vehicle in modern ways, while the 911 Assist emergency SOS system provides an added layer of security for you and your passengers.

Sophisticated Cabin Comfort and Versatility

Step inside the cabin, and you are greeted by the refined Ebony Black LTHR-TRIM Seats. The interior of this Explorer XLT is a study in thoughtful design and premium materials. The Leather front seat upholstery is complemented by Chrome and metal-look interior accents, creating an environment that feels upscale and inviting. For those chilly Missouri mornings, the Heated front seats and Heated steering wheel provide immediate warmth, ensuring your drive starts on a comfortable note.

Versatility is a hallmark of the Explorer, and this model features 7-passenger seating with a Third-row split-bench seat. The 60-40 folding second-row seats feature a Tumble forward design, making access to the rear of the vehicle simple for children and adults alike. When you need to maximize cargo space for a shopping trip or a weekend getaway, the Manual fold into floor third-row seat allows for a flat loading floor, while the Power liftgate provides easy access to the rear cargo area even when your hands are full.

The Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Ctrl ensures that both the driver and front passenger can maintain their ideal climate settings. Passengers in the back are not forgotten, as the Rear climate control system includes separate controls and Rear headliner/pillar climate control ducts to keep everyone comfortable. Every detail has been considered, from the 8-way power driver seat with 2-way power lumbar support to the Auto-dimming rear view mirror that reduces glare during night drives.

Comprehensive Safety for Peace of Mind

Safety is paramount in a family vehicle, and the 2018 Ford Explorer XLT is engineered to protect what matters most. The Safety Canopy System features curtain airbags that protect passengers in the first, second, and third rows, part of a comprehensive 7 airbag network. This includes Dual front impact airbags, Dual front side impact airbags, and a Passenger side knee airbag, providing multi-layered protection in the event of a collision.

Navigating tight spaces is made easier with the Exterior Parking Camera Rear, which includes a dedicated washer to ensure a clear view even in inclement weather. The Front and rear parking sensors provide audible alerts to help you avoid obstacles while maneuvering through busy areas. For those with young drivers in the household, the MyKey restricted driving mode allows you to set parameters for speed and audio volume, encouraging responsible driving habits.

The mechanical safety features are just as robust, with 4-Wheel Disc Brakes and a 4-wheel antilock (ABS) brakes system. The AdvanceTrac w/Roll Stability Control works constantly to maintain traction and prevent skidding, while Brake assist provides extra stopping power when it is needed most. With features like Hill Start Assist and Trailer sway control, the Explorer remains composed and under control regardless of the terrain or the task at hand.

Timeless Design and Practical Elegance

The exterior of this Explorer is finished in a striking Oxford White, a color that highlights the vehicle's bold lines and athletic stance. The Chrome grille and Metal-look front and rear bumper inserts add a touch of sophistication, while the Black bodyside cladding and Black wheel well trim provide a rugged, protective look. Rolling on 18-inch 5-split-spoke sparkle silver-painted wheels, this SUV has a balanced and purposeful aesthetic.

Visibility is enhanced by LED low beam headlights and LED Fog Lamps, ensuring the road is well-lit during evening drives. The LED daytime running lights provide a modern signature look while increasing your visibility to other drivers. Practical features abound, including Roof rails for additional cargo carrying capacity and Heated door mirrors with integrated Turn signal indicators that help clear frost and signal your intentions to others.

The rear of the vehicle features a Rear lip spoiler and LED brake lights, adding to the sporty silhouette. A Rear Bumper Step Pad makes loading the roof rack or accessing the cargo area easier, while the Deep tinted windows provide privacy for your passengers and help keep the interior cool on sunny days. Every element of the design, from the Body-colored door handles to the Stainless steel quasi-dual exhaust, has been chosen to create a cohesive and premium appearance.

Key Highlights

This 2018 Ford Explorer XLT is packed with features designed to enhance your driving experience and provide maximum utility.

• 3.5L V-6 Engine - Reliable power with 290HP for confident highway merging.
• Intelligent 4WD - Advanced traction control for all-weather Missouri driving.
• Leather-Trimmed Seating - Upscale Ebony Black leather for a premium cabin feel.
• Power Liftgate - Effortless access to the cargo area with the touch of a button.
• Heated Front Seats & Steering Wheel - Essential comfort for cold winter mornings.
• SYNC 3 Technology - Intuitive touchscreen interface with voice recognition.
• 7-Passenger Capacity - Spacious three-row seating for the whole family.
• Terrain Management System - Selectable modes to optimize performance on any surface.
• Rear View Camera - Added safety and convenience when reversing.
• LED Fog Lamps - Improved visibility in challenging weather conditions.
• Remote Start System - Warm up or cool down your vehicle before you step inside.
• 18-Inch Alloy Wheels - Stylish and durable wheels that complement the Oxford White exterior.
• Dual-Zone Climate Control - Personalized comfort for both the driver and front passenger.
• Safety Canopy System - Comprehensive side-curtain airbag protection for all three rows.
• MyKey Technology - Peace of mind for parents with teen drivers in the house.

Visit Us at Sunset Hills Subaru

Finding the perfect pre-owned vehicle should be an enjoyable and straightforward experience. At Sunset Hills Subaru, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse selection of high-quality vehicles like this 2018 Ford Explorer XLT. Located at 10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127, our dealership is a convenient destination for residents throughout the area. Whether you are coming from the quiet neighborhoods of Glendale, MO, or making the short drive from Maplewood, MO, our team is ready to provide you with exceptional service.

We invite you to visit our showroom to experience the comfort and capability of this Explorer firsthand. You can browse our used vehicle inventory online or get approved for financing before you arrive. If you are looking to trade in your current vehicle, we make it easy to get your trade value quickly. For any questions or to schedule a test drive, please call us at (314) 476-9638. We look forward to helping you find the vehicle that perfectly fits your lifestyle and your family's needs. <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=10100%20Watson

Build Codes: 202A | STDAX | 64C | ZONE | LIFT | FRONT | 44J | STDGV | STEP | NONRD | RMSTRT | MIRRO3 | HEATW | 998 | STDTR | FOG | COMPKG | B | DRIVER | CONECT | SYNC | LCD | MIRRO2 | YZ | BW | 153 | K8D