So yes, we have a 2023 4rnr 2wd (3rd row seat -yech) 18k on the clock.
Wife (5') with two bad shoulders is struggling with the tailgate at the stores when she's alone.
Have been looking at many suvs of that size. (Pathfinder-Rock Creek needs rear pads every15k-17k, Reddit has countless threads on this; Telluride- too many to list engine & trans); Grand Cherokee what an eye opener-too much to list; another 4rnr-Toyota priced me out for one with the power tail gate; Kia-same about the same almost as Telluride )
The tech is crazy, $4300 for new HUD windshield if one is needed. We drive on gravel and county roads and replaced a few already.
Power tail gate is needed.
What models, or trims do I stay away from or need for what I'm looking for?
We really do not care about bells & bling.
Also looked at adding the power tail gate option.
Two companies sell them.
Have to splice into CAN Bus. Reliability is hit or miss, retailer support as bad as the Jeep dealers I've read about, so no for that option.
But AWD (sad to see true 4wd gone) is a big plus here.
Have no clue about the 2.3l turbo and the 6 cylinder, good and bad point, nada.

Thanks, I'll check in later in the week.

 

Really depends what you want. The 2.3L I-4 and 3.0L V-6 are great engines. The 3.0L is an amazing engine and is very quick, and can be very fast once tuned. I’d go drive both end see what you like.

 

we really like our 2021 limited has the 2.3 good power and good fuel mileage have 82k on it

 

My 2020 Limited has been impressive with 55K on the clock. Our only issue to date was the third row power folding seat buttons failed. Easy to maintain, good on fuel and plenty of power.
Of course the Limited is no longer available unless you find a used one, you'll have to settle for the XLT, ST-line, ST or Platinum.
If I replace ours with another Explorer in the future, I'll be looking at an ST. The Platinum's today that I've seen in 2025 have fewer or different options than my Limited.

My single biggest complaint is resale value but this seems to be typical of most everything coming from Detroit branded vehicles.

 

Really tried to find one but but around here only black with black interior was available.
After many months and many test drives, we went with the pathfinder Rock Creek.
Scarlet Ember. Not a true 4wd, but for county, country roads it'll suffice.
Still a 4rnr fan boy. But their 10k to 15k mark ups, especially with the power tailgate, pushed me away.
Thanks for filling in the knowledge gap as well it all helped out.
Nissan dealer pissed at me cause I cut all the parasite out of the loop.
All done via phone, text and my own credit union. Not one single add on or mark up. Cornered them into giving me a OTD price with itemized list.
Thus, they are dragging their feet on paper work and replies, now that the sale is coming to a close.
Oh well, just a business deal ain't looking for friends! ha...!

 

We have a 2021 ST AWD. Great power, decent on gas and we have put 70k miles on it. Buy used as the value is cut in half after 2 years. As far as which model for your needs, I think any of them with a power tailgate will do. Your Toyota will last a lot longer, have less problems and be better on gas, but you already probably know this. These are cheaply built, plastic everything with to much tech that is a ticking time bomb. It seems most new cars are built to be replaced in 7-8 years these days. I might buy another, but not 100% on that.

 

Yup agree....the auto makers are really going cheap as it has not stopped buyers.
As long as I continue with the life long habit of all fluid and filter changes the little 3.6l should be fine.
Maybe add a catch can since it's a direct injection engine.
Already miss the 4rnr.....dang...unibody ride is SO different from the body on frame.
I have grown accustomed to the body on frame and really like that ride.
Guess I'll tell myself suck it up cup cakes. Not her fault she's five foot with two bad shoulders..!
She loves the truck. Now I don't hear a peep about her loading/offloading groceries by herself, when I'm busy out on the property.

 

I think you need a dash cam?

 

Most definitely on the list.
Solar powered cameras for the house as well.#2 on the list.

 

I tried to send you a message but failed. Can you send me one and we can discuss dash cam install?