2023 Discovery vs. 2022 Ford Explorer

The2023 Land Rover Discovery and the 2022 Ford Explorer both promise unforgettable off-road adventures, but you can only bring one model home to Broomfield or Broomfield. So, which SUV has more to offer: the Discovery or the Explorer? It’s no contest.

If you compare the new Discoveryvs. Ford Explorer, you’ll see that the Discovery is a tried-and-tested luxury SUV with nicer features, a higher towing capacity, and ground clearance that will help you traverse the region’s most difficult trails with confidence. 

Off-Road Capability: Discovery or Explorer?

The Ford Explorer is now available in an off-road-focused Timberline trim, but nothing compares to a Land Rover on the trails. Here’s what you should keep in mind before you drive home in one of these vehicles:

• Ground Clearance: With standard Electronic Air Suspension, the Discovery adapts to meet your needs. On lower settings designed for highway driving, the Discovery offers 8.15 inches of ground clearance. When you’re off the beaten path, you can raise this setting to enjoy up to 11.14 inches of clearance! The Explorer Timberline only offers up to 8.66 inches of clearance, so you’ll have to stick to easier trails.
• Off-Road Geometry: The proof of the Discovery SUV’s superiority is in the numbers. When your air suspension is set to max, you can tackle approach, departure, and ramp angles of 34, 30, and 27.5 degrees, respectively. At its best, the Explorer Timberline offers maximum approach, departure, and ramp angles of 23.5, 23.7, and 18.9 degrees—well below its rival’s standard.

Towing & Power Delivery: Discovery or Explorer?

The 2023 Discovery comes standard with a 296-hp I4 engine, while the Ford Explorer features a 300-hp powerplant with similar dimensions. This fact might give you the impression that the two SUVs are equally matched, but a closer look at each model’s towing capabilities tells a more accurate story:

• Discovery Towing Capacity: Up to 8,200 pounds
• Ford Explorer Towing Capacity: Up to 5,600 pounds

If you plan on taking bigger adventures this year, it’s impossible to overlook the fact that the Discovery can tow much heavier cargo! Choosing the Land Rover empowers you to move bigger boats or more luxurious trailers down the highways near Denver and Boulder.

Features: Discovery or Explorer?

Drivers who choose the Discovery are bringing home a genuine luxury SUV, one that comes complete with a Meridian™ Sound System, an 11.4-inch touchscreen, ebony-grained leather seats, and so much more. The Explorer Timberline is the only trim that can go head-to-head with the Discovery. It lacks the Discovery’s leather seats, and although it has an impressive speaker system, you’ll have to settle for a smaller touchscreen.

Start Your Off-Road Adventure at Land Rover Flatirons!

Our Land Rover Discovery vs. Ford Explorer comparison shows that Land Rover continues to offer more than all of its rivals! If you’re ready to see the Land Rover Discovery in person, then contact us to set up a test drive or find out how to shop and buy online.