Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2024 Ford Explorer SL
With an overall Carivo score of 7.5/10, the 2024 Ford Explorer SL earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.6/10, while Reliability at 6.8/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate reliability at 6.8/10 — below the segment average in our scoring. Budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and check the recall record below before buying. Safety is a strength too — 8.6/10 by our scoring. As with any car, verify the official ratings for your specific trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.3/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology comes in at 7.8/10 — functional and modern, with wireless connectivity and core ADAS features, though some competitors pack more standard tech at this price point.
Priced from $49,887–$64,091, 24 MPG, seating 7, the Ford Explorer SL sits in the premium tier of the suv category. Value lands at 7.2/10 — you get what you pay for, no more and no less, with a few rivals offering slightly better per-dollar returns. At 2 years old, it's recent enough that the core feature set holds up well against current competition.
Bottom line: Think of the 2024 Ford Explorer SL as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in reliability are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2024 Ford Explorer SL ranks #947 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 61% of the segment. Its 7.5/10 overall score is 0.1 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $49,887 starting price is about 38% above the segment's median of $36,079.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Explorer SL Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2021 Ford Explorer SL scores 7.4/10 — within striking distance of the 2024's 7.5 — and starts roughly $4,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Common Questions — 2024 Ford Explorer SL
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer SL reliable?
We rate the 2024 Ford Explorer SL's reliability 6.8/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance.
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer SL worth buying?
It scores 7.5/10 overall, ranking #947 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 61% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2024 Ford Explorer SL cost?
The 2024 Ford Explorer SL starts at $49,887 and ranges up to $64,091 across trims (MSRP when new). At 24 MPG, expect roughly $2,188/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Explorer SL years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 11 Explorer SL model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.5/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Ford Explorer SL
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More Ford Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Ford models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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