New Ford Explorer for Sale near Groton, CT

Frequently Asked Questions about Buying a New Ford Explorer near Groton, CT

The Ultimate 3-Row Family Adventure SUV for Southeastern Connecticut

For families living in Groton and across New London County, finding an SUV that seamlessly bridges the gap between daily school carpools, grocery runs, long-distance highway travel, and rugged weekend recreation can be a challenge. The new Ford Explorer is engineered specifically to answer that call. Built on a rear-wheel-drive architecture that delivers dynamic handling, a quiet highway ride, and aggressive styling, the Explorer stands out as one of the most versatile 3-row midsize SUVs on the market today. Whether you are driving past the Naval Submarine Base New London, heading down Route 1 to historic downtown Mystic, or packing up sports gear for games in Waterford, the Explorer delivers an exceptionally confident and refined driving experience.

The exterior design of the Ford Explorer commands immediate attention on Connecticut roadways. A bold front grille, chiseled body lines, sleek LED headlamps, and a sculpted rear spoiler give the vehicle an athletic stance. Available package options—such as the blacked-out ST-Line or the high-performance Explorer ST—add gloss-black wheels, quad chrome exhaust tips, and aggressive front fascia styling. With ample ground clearance and an advanced chassis, the Explorer easily navigates unpaved roads near Bluff Point State Park or snow-clogged neighborhood streets in Groton during harsh New England winters.

Powerful EcoBoost® Engines & Intelligent 4WD Capability

Under the hood, the new Ford Explorer offers a choice of two proven turbocharged EcoBoost® engines paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. The standard 2.3L EcoBoost® 4-cylinder engine generates a spirited 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing rapid acceleration for merging onto I-95 while maintaining excellent highway fuel efficiency. For enthusiasts seeking heart-pounding performance, the available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine (standard on the Explorer ST and Platinum trims) unleashes a staggering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, turning this 3-row family vehicle into a high-performance cruiser.

To keep you securely planted no matter what the weather forecast holds, the available Intelligent 4WD system continuously assesses wheel traction and road conditions. Integrated with the Terrain Management System™, the driver can effortlessly switch between seven distinct drive modes (Deep Snow/Sand, Slippery, Trail, Sport, Tow/Haul, Eco, and Normal) via a center console dial. Furthermore, when equipped with the Class III Trailer Tow Package, the Explorer boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, allowing you to easily pull boats, campers, or utility trailers across Southeastern Connecticut. Explore our full new Ford Explorer inventory to find your preferred engine and drivetrain combination.

Flexible 3-Row Interior Comfort & Spacious Cargo Configurations

Step inside the cabin of the new Ford Explorer, and you are welcomed into a tech-forward sanctuary designed around family convenience. The Explorer comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers with its standard second-row bench seat, or six passengers when configured with the highly popular second-row captain's chairs featuring E-Z Entry sliding functionality. Third-row seating provides comfortable space for children and teens, while available PowerFold® 3rd-row seats can fold completely flat at the touch of a button when extra cargo space is required.

Cargo flexibility is exceptional. Behind the third row, the Explorer provides 18.2 cubic feet of luggage space for everyday errands. Fold the third-row seats down, and cargo space expands to 47.9 cubic feet. With both the second and third rows folded flat, the Explorer opens up to a cavernous 87.8 cubic feet of total cargo volume—more than enough room for bulky furniture, camping equipment, or DIY home improvement supplies. Available luxury interior amenities include tri-zone automatic climate control, multi-contour seats with Active Motion® massage, a heated steering wheel, heated/ventilated front seats, and a massive twin-panel moonroof that floods the cabin with natural light.

Advanced SYNC® 4 Technology & Ford Co-Pilot360® Safety

The interior of the Ford Explorer is loaded with cutting-edge digital connectivity. The center dashboard features a large, portrait or landscape-oriented SYNC® touchscreen display equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration. The driver is treated to a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that displays customizable driving telemetry, navigation prompts, and safety alerts directly in your line of sight. An available 980-watt B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 14 speakers transforms the cabin into an immersive concert hall on long highway commutes.

Safety remains a top priority for any family vehicle. Every new Ford Explorer comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360®, a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies. This package includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System, Auto High-Beam Headlamps, and a Rear View Camera. Available Ford Co-Pilot360® Assist+ adds Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Evasive Steering Assist, and Connected Built-In Navigation, taking the stress out of heavy rush-hour traffic over the Gold Star Memorial Bridge.

Why Buy Your New Ford Explorer at Whaling City Ford?

Selecting where to buy your new 3-row SUV is just as important as selecting the vehicle itself. At Whaling City Ford, located in New London, CT—just a short drive across the Thames River from Groton—we take immense pride in delivering a transparent, stress-free vehicle buying experience for our Southeastern Connecticut community. Our knowledgeable sales team understands every nuance of the Explorer lineup, helping you compare the value-packed Active™, stylish ST-Line, performance ST, and luxurious Platinum trims.

Our experienced finance department works closely with Ford Credit as well as local New London County credit unions and national financial institutions to secure competitive interest rates and custom lease structures tailored to your household budget. After you drive off our lot, our factory-trained service technicians in our state-of-the-art service department will be here to keep your Explorer running flawlessly using genuine Ford OEM parts. Visit Whaling City Ford today to test drive the remarkable new Ford Explorer!