1. The trim
XLT, Limited, ST-Line or another trim identifies a version of the vehicle. It is useful shorthand, but its standard equipment can change with model year.
Used Ford Explorer Trims and Packages Explained
Brown’s West Branch Ford • Used SUV Research
Used Ford Explorer Trims and Packages Explained
The trim badge starts the comparison. The equipment list finishes it.
Two used Explorers can share a trim name, look similar in the photos and still have a meaningful difference in price. Sometimes it’s year, mileage or condition. Sometimes the difference is equipment you can’t identify from the badge.
At Brown’s West Branch Ford just outside of Iowa City, we can help separate those questions. Start with the features you care about, then compare how each actual Explorer was equipped.
Read the Equipment in Three Layers
2. The equipment group
A number such as 200A or 202A helps identify the equipment within a trim. You’ll often see it on the original window sticker.
3. Packages and individual options
These can add equipment beyond the group. Some require a particular group, some cannot be combined and some features may have deletion or credit entries.
Think of the equipment group as another part of the description—not a shortcut for “fully loaded.” The options still matter.
What Does 202A Add to a 2024 XLT?
For a 2024 XLT, moving from 200A to 202A adds features including ActiveX seating material, an eight-way power passenger seat, a heated steering wheel and remote start.
Those are differences you might use every day. But two 202A Explorers can still have different options, so there’s another layer to compare.
| Item | What to look for |
|---|---|
| 202A equipment group | Adds the comfort and convenience features described above |
| XLT Technology Package, 68D | Optional on 202A; includes a 360-degree camera and 12-speaker B&O audio. Check the sticker for any camera credit. |
| XLT Sport Appearance Package, 68M | Cannot be combined with the XLT Technology Package |
| Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+, 65S | Optional on 202A; includes adaptive cruise control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering |
| Second-row bench, 17U | Optional on both 200A and 202A; seating still needs its own check |
If you’re comparing 2024 XLTs, look for the Technology Package, Assist+ and your preferred second row separately—even when both listings say “202A.” Our Explorer seating guide explains why that last point can matter as much as the comfort features.
The Same Trim Name Can Change With Year
In a 2020 XLT, the optional Comfort Package bundled heated first- and second-row seats with a heated steering wheel. By 2024, heated front seats were standard on XLT. If warm seats are on your list, start with that feature rather than shopping for a particular package name.
You’ll also see different trim names as you move through model years. For 2025, the XLT name changed to Active. Comparing the features you want makes it easier to shop across that change.
ST and ST-Line Aren’t Interchangeable
For 2024, the ST-Line has a 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, with rear-wheel drive standard and four-wheel drive optional. The ST has a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and sport-tuned suspension.
That’s a meaningful difference in the vehicle you’re buying—not just a different set of seats or exterior details.
One Window-Sticker Detail Worth Checking
When you review a window sticker, look for feature credits as well as additions. A 2024 XLT with the Technology Package could have a 360-Degree Camera Credit when that feature was unavailable. That’s important if the camera is one of the reasons you’re choosing it.
If a feature is a must-have and the listing leaves you unsure, ask us to check it. You shouldn’t have to untangle the equipment information on your own.
Let Us Compare the Actual Vehicles
Send the listings to our Internet Manager and identify your must-haves: perhaps adaptive cruise control, a certain seating layout, heated seats or audio equipment. We can review available Ford window stickers, check equipment information and help explain differences before you drive from Coralville, Muscatine or Kalona.
Once the features are clear, weigh them alongside condition, maintenance, mileage and price. More equipment only improves the choice if it matters to you.
Questions Worth Asking
Does a higher equipment group include every package?
No. On a 2024 XLT, for example, 202A adds specific upgrades, while the Technology Package and Assist+ are separate options.
Are ST and ST-Line the same?
No. For 2024, ST-Line has a 2.3L EcoBoost engine, while ST has a 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and sport-tuned suspension.
Does Co-Pilot360 mean the vehicle has adaptive cruise control?
Not by itself. On a 2024 XLT, Assist+ adds adaptive cruise control and is a separate option on 202A. Tell us if adaptive cruise is on your must-have list.
Why can a feature be missing from a package?
Some vehicles were built with feature credits or deletions. A camera credit on a 2024 XLT is one example. Check the original sticker, and ask us to confirm anything that isn’t clear.
How do I get help decoding a window sticker?
Send the listing and the feature you’re trying to confirm to our Internet Manager. We can help interpret equipment groups, options and applicable credits.