Agate Black Metallic gives this 2023 Ford Explorer Platinum a polished, understated look, but the stronger story is what sits underneath it: a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6, rear-wheel drive, three-row versatility, and Platinum-level comfort. This is an Explorer for a buyer who wants family-friendly space without giving up strong acceleration, premium materials, or the confident road manners of Ford’s rear-drive-based SUV platform.

The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, giving the Explorer quick response for merging, passing, and highway travel. Rear-wheel drive helps preserve a balanced feel through the chassis and avoids adding four-wheel-drive hardware for a buyer whose use is primarily on pavement. The 10-speed transmission keeps the engine responsive around town and relaxed at cruising speed, making the powertrain equally comfortable on a Wesley Chapel commute or a longer run across Florida.

Platinum trim moves the cabin well beyond basic family transportation.
Leather seating, power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, tri-zone automatic climate control, premium cabin materials, and a power-folding third row create an environment designed for long days behind the wheel. Second-row comfort and flexible rear seating let the Explorer move between passenger duty and cargo duty quickly, whether the day involves school schedules, airport runs, sports equipment, or a weekend away.

The Explorer’s three-row layout is especially useful because the cargo area remains practical even when the cabin is being used by more passengers. Fold the rear seats and the load floor expands for luggage, home-improvement supplies, or larger everyday items. A power liftgate simplifies loading, while the SUV’s broad rear opening and relatively low cargo floor make it easier to use than a traditional body-on-frame utility vehicle.

Technology is another Platinum strength. Ford’s SYNC interface supports smartphone integration, connected functions, audio, navigation capability where equipped, and voice control through a large central display. A digital instrument cluster places key driving information directly in front of the driver, while parking sensors, a rearview camera, and available surround-view functions help manage the Explorer in tighter Tampa Bay parking areas. Premium audio and multiple charging points support longer trips with a full cabin.

Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assistance technology adds Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Information System, Lane-Keeping System, rear cross-traffic alert, and other active safety support. These systems are designed to reduce workload without changing the Explorer’s natural, composed driving character.

This Explorer is Ford Gold Certified, adding a 172-point inspection, a 12-month/12,000-mile Comprehensive Limited Warranty, a 7-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty, 24/7 Roadside Assistance, and applicable FordPass Rewards Points.

Applicable Parks Plus benefits add paint, headlight, and interior protective treatments together with VIN etching, roadside assistance, identity-theft protection and restoration, stolen-vehicle assistance, collision loyalty benefits, cabin sanitizer, and antimicrobial protectant.

For buyers who want real three-row utility with substantially more performance and refinement than a basic crossover, this 2023 Explorer Platinum is a compelling fit for Wesley Chapel, Tampa, Clearwater, and travel throughout the greater Tampa Bay area.