The Ford Explorer is one of the best-selling SUVs in the United States and most popular among families. It offers a very spacious cabin, attractive design, and many modern features. As well, it is also very good to handle and comes with all-wheel drive system. There are several engine options too and IT provides better fuel economy compared to the previous models. The all-new version of Explorer SUV has been presented at the 2018 Beijing Motor Show in China but it has been covered with a blue sheet. But despite the coverings, we can conclude several upgrades and changes of the new 2020 Ford Explorer.
First of all, the upcoming Explorer will be based on the new platform which is also used in the Lincoln Aviator. As well, it will arrive with a reduced weight which will provide better fuel economy and performance. Visually, the new Ford will also be revised but it will still feature familiar boxy appearance. Under the hood we also anticipate upgrades and perhaps the hybrid engine might be available this time. Furthermore, the carmaker has also confirmed that the high-performance Explorer ST will be offered as well.
2020 Ford Explorer engines and performances
The current model is available with three engines and we assume that the 2020 Ford Explorer should also offer the same engines but upgraded. The one is a 3.5-liter V-6 which is able to make 290 hp and 255 pound-feet of torque. This unit is available in the base and XLT versions. With front-wheel drive, it gets 17/24 mpg while with AWD it is rated at 16/22mpg.
There is also a 2.3-liter inline-4 turbocharged engine which is found in the base, XLT, and Limited trims. This engine has the output of 280 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. As for the fuel economy, this engine gets 19/27 mpg connected to front-wheels, and the AWD version gets 18/25 mpg.
The last is a 3.5-liter V-6 twin-turbocharged engine with the output of 365 hp and 350 pound-feet of torque. This one is used in Sport and Platinum models. It comes with all-wheel drive only and it gets 16/22 mpg. All the engines work with a six-speed automatic gearbox.
On the other hand, the newest Explorer ST is also announced which might replace the Sport version. However, we still don’t have any precise information. Furthermore, it is very likely that the Explorer will also be available with a hybrid engine.
Platform and design
The 2020 Ford Explorer will be based on the new modular CD6, a rear-wheel drive platform which also underpins the Lincoln Aviator SUV. As well, the carmaker will use more aluminum which will reduce its weight and help in better fuel economy.
The exterior of the new Explorer will be refreshed but it will return with the same boxy appearance. The front fascia will look smooth and the wheels will be larger than before and more rounded. It will get a shorter hood and will look sportier. As well, the tailgate will also be more upright.
Inside the cabin, it will keep the same three-row seating configuration and will be able to welcome up to seven passengers. Furthermore, we might also see more improvements in the technology.
Release date and price of the 2020 Ford Explorer
The 2020 Ford Explorer should be available sometime in early 2019. The starting price should be around $30,000 while the higher trims will reach the price of $50,000.