Can't decide, ST or Platinum?

[bluesnake01]

I don’t think changing the drive mode does anything for the the suspension settings as i think it is a passive system.

Drive mode really only changes steering, throttle, transmission shifting and FENG

But one big benefit of the ST over the Platinum or other trims is when you load up the car with passengers and luggage for a road trip.

The firmer spring rates, bigger sway bars and larger brakes make a difference in those situations, especially if you drive mountain roads and use the hitch for any bikes or cargo racks.

"Optional bigger brakes". Only if you have have the Street package or "Performance" Package . Regular ST's have the same brakes as the Platinum's

 

[Svtguy]

"Optional bigger brakes". Only if you have have the Street package or "Performance" Package . Regular ST's have the same brakes as the Platinum's

Optional yes…but the vast majority of the STs I see running around have them equipped

 

[MikeHTally]

I usually drive in NORMAL mode the majority of the time, then switch to SPORT mode if I need that extra oomph. But Sport mode can become tiresome after a while. On long trips where fatigue might be a factor, I'll go with ECO mode for smoother throttle response.

I use Eco Mode most of the time. Puttering back and forth to work doesn't produce any need for anything more sporty. For the same reason, I use 87 octane fuel. My fuel-cost-per-mile is around $0.16. I may have some road-trips coming up later. Those will be using 93 octane and the "normal" setting. I suspect the cost-per-mile will be equal, perhaps a smidge better. My last road trip averaged 24.4 mpg with a peak of 26.4, back when 93 was $5.40/gal. The cost-per-mile was over the top.

 

[KegsBdry]

Recently, the only time ECO mode goes ON is when my step mother is in the ST. I can't have her teaching for the OhShit Bar on every turn.

 

[RTM]

I usually drive in NORMAL mode the majority of the time, then switch to SPORT mode if I need that extra oomph. But Sport mode can become tiresome after a while. On long trips where fatigue might be a factor, I'll go with ECO mode for smoother throttle response.

Sport mode has that purr! Love that purr... when in traffic, I often turn it on just so the others hear it..

 

[hbalek]

Sport mode has that purr! Love that purr... when in traffic, I often turn it on just so the others hear it..

Hate to break it to you but the engine sound in Sport Mode is piped in through the sound speakers inside aka fake engine noise. So outside it still sounds like a minivan! LOL

 

[SCT]

I have a 2021 ST and love it, but in hindsight would have preferred a Platinum for the quieter and smoother tide.

 

[bluesnake01]

I have a 2021 ST and love it, but in hindsight would have preferred a Platinum for the quieter and smoother tide.

I dont believe its quieter, ST is stiffer but its not THAT noticeable, matter of fact....

Im curious to those that drove the ST and the Platinum, did they both have the 21 inch wheels? A wider tire on the bigger wheels will obviously have better handling capabilities vs a smaller wheel with a more narrow tire. I have seen more Platinum's with the smaller 20 inch wheels which is probably why most people feel the suspension more firm as oppose to the more common ST's with the street package.

 

[I Bleed Ford Blue]

My previous 21 had the 20's only because I didn't like the 21" wheels that the ST had so I picked one with 20's. The platinum was never even a consideration, if I wanted over the top luxury, I'd by the lincoln aviator. BTW, if you only buy the ST for looks, consider an ST-line. They look just like the ST but are just an XLT underneath and save yourself about 15K. You can always upgrade the suspension and wheels and tires later and make it handle better than a real ST.

 

[EDWYER]

I never cared for the platinum looks.

 

[bluesnake01]

Yeah the ST front grill looks much better and the Platinum seats look ugly with the two tone. Also love the smoked lights on the ST

The Platinum however has brighter adaptive projection LEDs, leather dashboard and comfier seats.

Love the Aviators but coming from a Navigator, I hated the gear selection buttons, the more simple digital cluster and needed at least the reserve for nicer leather stitched dashboard. Just felt more like a vehicle for an older folk,.I'm not there yet lol The seats tho and UI screen are unmatched vs the Explorer