2016 Ford F-150 Limited vs. Ford Explorer Platinum: Truck vs. SUV Twin Turbo Mashup Review

Which vehicle is the better family truckster: is it a pickup truck or an SUV? More specifically, is it the 2016 Ford F-150 or the 2016 Ford Explorer? Even more specifically, this is a mashup between two top-of-the-line models. The F-150 Limited and the Explorer Platinum.

These two utilize the same engine – the 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6. OK, the engine is actually tuned differently. It produces 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque in the Explorer, and 365 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque in the F-150. Both use a 6-speed automatic transmission and both get identical EPA rating of 16 MPG in the city, 22 MPG on the highway, and 18 MPG combined.

Consider that these two are fully loaded, the F-150 Limited even has optional loading ramps in the back. The heated and cooled seats with massage feature and a panoramic sunroof are nice additions, but all of this adds curb weight. Why is this important? It matters for acceleration, but you may not take your F-150 and Explorer to the drag strip every week. It is also important when you consider how much cargo you can haul and what trailer you can tow. The F-150 is rated at a maximum 10,400 lbs of towing. The rating is lower than other F-150s because it is a Limited model and it’s wearing 22-inch rims among other things. The Explorer is rated at a maximum of 5,000 lbs.

The bottom line is two-fold. First is the decision about what type of vehicle you want or need for your family. Do you care more about cargo hauling and towing (read F-150), or is transporting six or seven people is higher on your priority list (read Explorer)?  Second is the actual bottom line. This exact F-150 Limited stickers at $67,270. This Explorer Platinum comes in at a much more reasonable price by comparison: $55,355. The truck can do more work, but it also costs more.

Which one do you prefer?