Hey guys, let's dive into the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum review. If you're in the market for a full-size SUV that balances capability with a touch of luxury, the Platinum trim of the 2018 Explorer really steps up to the plate. Ford has always been a go-to for families and adventurers alike, and the Explorer has been a stalwart in their lineup for ages. The Platinum edition is essentially the crème de la crème, designed for those who want a bit more refinement and premium features without necessarily jumping into a dedicated luxury brand. We're talking about a vehicle that aims to impress with its comfort, technology, and overall presence on the road.

This review will cover everything you need to know, from its imposing exterior styling to the plush interior that feels a world away from your everyday commuter car. We'll explore its performance capabilities, how it handles those family road trips or weekend getaways, and whether it truly justifies its higher price point compared to lower trims. The 2018 model year saw some updates and refinements that make it a compelling option even today, especially if you're looking for a used SUV that offers a lot of bang for your buck. So, buckle up, because we're about to take a comprehensive look at what makes the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum tick. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about doing it in style and with all the creature comforts you could ask for. Ford really tried to pack in a lot of value here, and for the most part, they succeeded in creating a well-rounded, capable, and undeniably attractive SUV that appeals to a broad audience. From its distinctive grille to the premium materials inside, the Platinum trim signals a step up, and we're here to see if it lives up to the hype.

Exterior Appeal and Road Presence

When you first lay eyes on the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum, you immediately notice its commanding presence. It’s not just big; it’s bold. The Platinum trim gets some specific styling cues that set it apart from its lesser siblings. Think chrome accents aplenty – a distinctive grille, roof rails, and door handles all get that shiny treatment, giving it a more upscale and sophisticated look. The 2018 model year also saw revised front and rear fascias, giving it a slightly more modern and aggressive stance. It’s the kind of SUV that looks confident pulling up to a valet stand or navigating a gravel road to a campsite. The standard 20-inch polished aluminum wheels are a clear indicator that this isn't your base model; they fill out the wheel wells nicely and contribute significantly to its overall aesthetic. The LED signature lighting, both for the headlights and taillights, adds a premium touch and improves visibility, especially at night. It has that classic SUV silhouette that many buyers are looking for – tall, wide, and ready for action.

Ford understands that for many, the exterior is the first impression, and they've done a commendable job making the Platinum feel special. The side profile is clean, with subtle character lines that add depth without being overly busy. The rear end features a tidy design with the Explorer script prominently displayed, and the dual exhaust tips hint at the power lurking beneath the hood. For those who need it, the roof rails are functional, ready to haul extra gear for those adventurous weekends. The overall design language is mature and refined, avoiding overly flashy or polarizing elements, which generally appeals to a wider demographic. It's a design that ages well, avoiding the trap of being too trendy. The Platinum trim specifically aims to elevate the standard Explorer design, adding just enough flair to communicate its premium status without shouting it from the rooftops. It strikes a balance between rugged utility and polished sophistication, making it a versatile choice for various lifestyles and occasions. The visual cues are subtle but effective, ensuring that the Platinum feels distinct and more exclusive than other trims, justifying its position at the top of the Explorer hierarchy. It’s a look that says, “I’ve arrived,” in a way that’s both understated and confident. The attention to detail in the exterior trim and lighting elements really elevates the perceived quality and desirability of this large SUV. It’s definitely a head-turner for those who appreciate a well-executed design in a vehicle meant for both city streets and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Interior Comfort and Luxury

Now, let's talk about what really makes the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum shine: the interior. This is where Ford really pulls out all the stops to create a genuinely luxurious experience. Step inside, and you’re greeted by premium Nirvana leather-trimmed seats that are both comfortable and stylish. The front seats aren’t just heated; they’re also ventilated, a godsend during those hot summer months. The driver’s seat also boasts a memory function, so your perfect driving position is always just a button press away. The Platinum trim level means you get the best materials available – soft-touch surfaces abound, and the fit and finish are excellent, giving it a premium feel that rivals some more expensive brands. The dashboard layout is intuitive and driver-focused, with the large 8-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen infotainment system right in the center. This system is straightforward to use, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is crucial for staying connected and entertained on the go.

Rear passengers aren't left out either. The second-row seats offer ample legroom and headroom, and they’re also heated, making winter commutes much more bearable. The third row, while typical for an SUV of this size, is best suited for children or occasional use by adults on shorter trips. However, the ease with which the second-row seats fold and tumble forward makes accessing the third row relatively painless. For families, the abundance of cupholders, USB ports, and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin is a lifesaver, keeping everyone’s devices charged and drinks within reach. The dual-panel moonroof is another fantastic feature that comes standard on the Platinum, bathing the cabin in natural light and making it feel even more spacious and airy. It’s perfect for stargazing on those clear camping nights or just enjoying the view on a scenic drive. The ambient interior lighting adds a subtle touch of class, allowing you to set the mood. The cabin is also remarkably quiet, thanks to Ford’s efforts in sound deadening, which further enhances the premium feel and makes for a more relaxed driving experience, especially on longer journeys.

The attention to detail extends to the little things, like the premium floor mats and the specific badging that denotes the Platinum trim. The overall impression is one of solid build quality and a focus on passenger comfort. You really feel like you’re getting a significant upgrade over lower trims, and the materials used feel durable and upscale. It’s the kind of interior that makes you want to spend more time in your vehicle, whether you’re stuck in traffic or embarking on a cross-country adventure. The combination of high-quality leather, wood trim accents (specific to the Platinum), and modern technology creates an environment that is both functional and luxurious. It’s a well-thought-out space designed to keep everyone comfortable and entertained, solidifying the Platinum’s position as the most luxurious offering in the Explorer lineup for its year. The spaciousness, combined with the premium appointments, makes this SUV a true standout in its class for comfort and refinement. It’s clear that Ford invested heavily in making the cabin of the 2018 Explorer Platinum a place you’ll want to be.

Powertrain and Driving Dynamics

Under the hood, the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum offers a potent and refined powertrain designed to deliver both power and confidence. The standard engine for the Platinum is the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, an engine that truly lives up to its name. It produces a robust 365 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, numbers that translate into impressive acceleration and effortless merging onto highways or passing slower vehicles. This engine provides the kind of grunt you want in a large SUV, ensuring you never feel underpowered, whether you’re climbing a steep grade or towing a trailer. Mated to a smooth-shifting 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, the power delivery is linear and predictable. The SelectShift feature allows you to manually select gears using paddle shifters on the steering wheel, offering a bit more driver engagement when desired.

Furthermore, the Platinum trim comes standard with Intelligent 4WD, which actively monitors traction and sends power to the wheels that need it most, enhancing grip in slippery conditions, whether it's rain, snow, or light off-roading. This system, combined with the Terrain Management System, allows you to select different driving modes (Normal, Mud/Ruts, Sand, Grass/Gravel/Snow) to optimize performance for various surfaces. This intelligent system takes a lot of the guesswork out of driving in challenging conditions, making the Explorer Platinum surprisingly capable for an SUV that leans heavily towards comfort. The ride quality is generally well-balanced. While it’s a large, body-on-frame SUV (though the Explorer is technically a unibody construction, it feels substantial), Ford has tuned the suspension to provide a comfortable ride for daily commuting and long road trips. It absorbs road imperfections well, minimizing harsh impacts into the cabin.

However, being a larger vehicle, it’s not going to feel as nimble as a smaller crossover. Body roll is present in tighter corners, but it remains controlled and predictable, thanks to the responsive steering and well-engineered chassis. The steering itself is nicely weighted, providing good feedback to the driver, making the big Explorer feel more manageable than its size might suggest. Braking is strong and confident, with the standard anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) working effectively to bring the vehicle to a safe stop. For those who need to tow, the Explorer Platinum is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds, making it a capable partner for hauling boats, ATVs, or a small camper. The combination of the powerful EcoBoost engine, the intelligent 4WD system, and the comfortable yet capable suspension makes the 2018 Explorer Platinum a well-rounded performer that can handle a wide variety of tasks and conditions with ease. It’s a smooth, powerful, and confident driving experience that perfectly complements the luxurious interior and upscale exterior. The powertrain isn't just about raw power; it's about delivering that power smoothly and efficiently, providing a sense of security and capability that's essential for a family SUV. The intelligent systems work seamlessly in the background, ensuring you always have the grip and power you need, when you need it, without fuss. It’s a very user-friendly approach to performance and capability.

Technology and Safety Features

When you’re looking at a top-tier trim like the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum, you expect a comprehensive suite of technology and safety features, and thankfully, it delivers. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is the aforementioned 8-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen. This system is a significant upgrade over previous Ford infotainment systems, offering crisp graphics, responsive touch inputs, and an easy-to-navigate interface. As mentioned, it’s fully compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration of your smartphone for navigation, music, and communication apps. Voice commands are also a strong suit of SYNC 3, enabling you to control various functions without taking your hands off the wheel – a huge plus for safety and convenience.

Beyond the infotainment, the Platinum trim is loaded with convenience tech. You get a premium Sony audio system with 12 speakers, delivering crisp and immersive sound quality that enhances the listening experience for everyone in the cabin. The navigation system is built-in and easy to use, perfect for those times when cell service might be spotty. Keyless entry with push-button start is standard, as is remote start, which is incredibly convenient on cold mornings or hot afternoons. The Platinum also comes equipped with a heated steering wheel, a welcome feature in colder climates. For added convenience, the power liftgate is also standard, making loading and unloading cargo a breeze.

On the safety front, the 2018 Explorer Platinum is packed with active and passive safety technologies designed to protect occupants and help prevent accidents. Standard features include a rear-view camera and front/rear parking sensors, making maneuvering in tight spaces much easier. Blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert is also standard, a crucial feature for highway driving and backing out of parking spots. The Platinum trim often includes advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, which can significantly reduce driver fatigue on long journeys by maintaining a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead and gently keeping the vehicle centered in its lane. The inclusion of automatic high beams is another thoughtful touch that improves nighttime driving safety.

Overall, the technology and safety package in the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum is robust and competitive for its class. The integration of modern smartphone connectivity, a premium sound system, and a comprehensive suite of driver aids makes this SUV feel modern and secure. The user-friendly nature of the technology, particularly the SYNC 3 system, ensures that these advanced features are accessible and useful for everyday driving. Ford really aimed to make the Platinum feel like a premium offering, and the extensive list of standard technology and safety features certainly contributes to that perception. It’s reassuring to know that you’re not only driving a comfortable and capable vehicle but also one that’s equipped with the latest in safety and convenience to make every journey safer and more enjoyable for the whole family. The emphasis on driver assistance systems really highlights Ford’s commitment to modern safety standards and enhances the overall ownership experience, providing peace of mind on every drive.

The Verdict: Is the 2018 Platinum Worth It?

So, guys, after breaking down the 2018 Ford Explorer Platinum, the big question is: is it worth the premium price tag? For the right buyer, the answer is a resounding yes. If you're looking for a large SUV that offers a blend of robust capability, comfortable seating for up to seven, and a genuinely luxurious interior experience, the Platinum trim hits a lot of the right notes. You're getting Ford's most powerful engine, the intelligent 4WD system, and a host of premium features that are optional or unavailable on lower trims. The Nirvana leather, the Sony audio system, the dual-panel moonroof, ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist are just some of the highlights that elevate the Platinum above the rest.

This is an SUV that doesn't just get the job done; it pampers you while doing it. It’s perfect for families who take frequent road trips, those who need to tow occasionally, or anyone who simply appreciates a more refined driving experience and a cabin that feels like a sanctuary. The 2018 model year was a strong one for the Explorer, and the Platinum trim truly represents the pinnacle of what Ford offered in that generation. While it might not have the badge appeal of some European luxury brands, it often comes with a more accessible price point, especially on the used market, offering incredible value for the features and refinement you receive.

Of course, it’s important to consider your priorities. If you’re solely focused on fuel economy or the most agile handling, a smaller crossover might be a better fit. The Explorer Platinum is a large vehicle, and its fuel consumption reflects that, though the EcoBoost engines are reasonably efficient for their size. Also, the third row, while present, is best suited for children. However, for those who need the space, comfort, and premium touches that the Platinum provides, it’s a fantastic choice. It strikes an excellent balance between the ruggedness expected of an Explorer and the luxurious appointments that make driving a pleasure. It's a well-equipped, powerful, and comfortable SUV that offers a compelling package for anyone looking for a step up in their family vehicle. If you can find a well-maintained 2018 Explorer Platinum, it remains a very attractive option in the used SUV market, offering a luxurious and capable experience without breaking the bank compared to brand-new luxury competitors. It’s a smart buy for those who want the best of what the Explorer line had to offer.