Inside The 2025 Ford Explorer: Interior Features Breakdown

The 2016 Ford Explorer has long been a top choice for families seeking an SUV that balances comfort, practicality, and rugged capability. Known for its spacious cabin, the Explorer accommodates passengers and cargo with ease – ideal for road trips and daily activities.

Looking closely at the 2016 Ford Explorer interior reveals a blend of comfort and utility, though some features feel dated compared to newer models. The second and third rows provide reasonable space, while tech offerings from 2016 may not match the modern convenience found in the 2025 Ford Explorer.

Comparing the two models highlights how Ford has refined its interior layout, materials, and amenities over time.

Interior Space and Comfort: A Family-Friendly Design

The 2016 Ford Explorer interior accommodates up to seven passengers across three rows, making it a strong option for larger families. The second row provides ample room, while the third row is better suited for children and may feel tight for adults during long trips.

Platinum trims feature leather seating that enhances comfort and adds a touch of luxury, while ergonomic adjustments in all rows help improve long-drive usability and support.

Legroom in the front and second rows is generous, allowing passengers to stretch out during extended drives. Taller drivers may find visibility slightly limited due to a higher dashboard and roof pillars, but the cabin’s overall design remains practical.

Storage compartments, cup holders, and thoughtfully placed controls further contribute to convenience. Newer Explorer models have refined seating positions and improved sightlines, directly addressing these visibility concerns. These updates create a more comfortable and driver-friendly interior environment.

Cargo Capacity: A Solid Offering for Your Adventures

The 2016 Ford Explorer offers competitive cargo space in its class, with a total of 81.7 cubic feet of space when both the second and third rows are folded flat.

For families with gear, this ample cargo capacity can be a lifesaver, if you're packing for a long road trip or carrying sporting equipment. The available hands-free liftgate is a welcome feature for busy parents juggling groceries or small children.

When compared to competitors, the Explorer's cargo space is adequate but not best-in-class. If you need even more room, models like the Chevy Traverse might better serve your needs, but the 2016 Ford Explorer comes with even more flexibility, adding cargo space while maintaining overall passenger comfort.

Technology: A Mixed Bag of Features

Ford's technology offerings in the 2016 Ford Explorer are a bit of a mixed bag. While the base model features a simple six-speaker audio system and basic sync capabilities, the more premium trims, like the Platinum, come with a Sony sound system that produces rich, clear audio.

However, the MyFord Touch interface, while improved, can still be a bit tricky to use. Users often report difficulty when trying to change radio stations or navigate through other menus. These frustrations can detract from the overall driving experience, especially if you’re looking for intuitive controls.

In contrast, the 2016 Ford Explorer brings a much more user-friendly interface with an improved infotainment system, including a larger touchscreen and better smartphone integration. If you're after a simpler, more modern setup, the 2016 Ford Explorer delivers that. This makes it a much more appealing choice for tech-savvy drivers.

Seating Features: Comfort With Room to Improve

Although the 2016 Ford Explorer can seat up to seven people, the second and third rows are not the most spacious in the midsize SUV category. The second row does feature a split-folding bench for easy access to the third row, but installing a rear-facing car seat might be difficult due to limited space.

That said, the optional bucket seats in the second row of some trims give more comfort and accessibility.

For larger families who frequently use the third row, the 2016 Ford Explorer introduces more generous space in all rows, particularly in the available captain's chairs for the second row. For this reason, it’s a better choice for those who prioritize comfort and legroom.

Safety Features: Ford’s Commitment to Protection

Safety is always a concern when purchasing a family vehicle, and the 2016 Ford Explorer performs decently in this regard. The base model comes with important safety features such as rearview cameras, airbags, and stability control.

However, it lacks some advanced safety technology, including automatic pre-collision braking, a feature now standard in many competitors.

The 2016 Ford Explorer has improved on this front, with additional driver-assistance features such as lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring, standard in higher trims. This upgrade significantly improves driver confidence and the overall safety profile of the vehicle.

Interior Styling: A Step Toward Luxury

The 2016 Ford Explorer introduces a higher level of interior styling, especially with the Platinum trim. Leather seats, wood accents, and soft-touch materials help create a luxurious feel, though the base models might still feel somewhat utilitarian.

Despite this, Ford has managed to keep the Explorer’s interior functional and family-friendly without sacrificing the necessary features for comfort and usability.

For buyers interested in the 2016 Ford Explorer, the interior styling reaches new heights, with a more modern aesthetic and improved materials that enhance the overall driving experience. The updated design places emphasis on both utility and sophistication. It shows that the interior serves not just as a space for driving but also as an environment for family life.

Driving Experience: Handling and Performance

On the road, the 2016 Ford Explorer delivers smooth handling and reliable power with its standard 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower. While capable, it can feel slightly sluggish when fully loaded.

For drivers seeking more excitement, the Sport and Platinum trims include a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 producing 365 horsepower. This upgrade provides stronger acceleration and improved towing performance, which makes the SUV more versatile for various driving needs.

The 2016 Ford Explorer delivers a more refined driving experience with an improved suspension system and better engine options, including a hybrid variant for those interested in better fuel economy.

If you're considering a pre-owned 2016 Ford Explorer, the improved handling and powertrain efficiency make it a better choice for those looking for an enhanced driving experience.

Why Zeigler Ford of Plainwell Stands Out

At Zeigler Ford of Plainwell, the car-buying process is straightforward and transparent. A wide selection of quality pre-owned vehicles, including the dependable 2016 Ford Explorer, ensures that customers can find an SUV that fits their lifestyle.

The team provides personalized guidance at every stage, helping buyers evaluate options, compare trims, and explore features that match their needs. Financing solutions are tailored to individual budgets, with competitive rates and flexible terms.

Visiting Zeigler Ford of Plainwell delivers a seamless, customer-focused experience and allows buyers to make confident decisions without stress. Knowledgeable staff, attentive support, and thorough vehicle inspections combine to create a trustworthy and professional environment for finding your next SUV.

A Reliable Choice with Room for Growth

The 2016 Ford Explorer continues to be a practical choice for families seeking an affordable, dependable SUV with spacious seating and versatile features. While it may lack some of the advanced technology of newer models, it still provides comfort, capability, and solid performance.

For those seeking the latest in safety and technology, the 2016 Ford Explorer is a worthwhile upgrade, bringing more space, improved driving dynamics, and cutting-edge features.

At Zeigler Ford of Plainwell, we are proud to offer a wide selection of pre-owned models to help you find the right vehicle for your needs.

Visit us today to test drive a 2016 Ford Explorer and experience its comfort, performance, and family-friendly features firsthand.