The Ford Explorer has long been the American epiphany of 7-seater sports-utility vehicles even dating back to well before cross-overs were even a hit. That said, the Explorer doesn’t exactly fit into the cross-over category, but there’s still plenty of demand for its old-school box-like classical SUV form factor that comes with plenty of cargo space, towing capacity and off-road capabilities along with it.
There are no design tricks to otherwise persuade you into thinking the Explorer looks sleek nor modern, but Ford has done its due diligence with keeping its tech and performance features above market demand. The top Platinum trim sports a massive 10.1” portrait-mounted touchscreen offering full-screen map navigation and Ford Co-Pilot360 safety tech features.
Ford has even integrated tech features into its powertrain with Reverse Brake Assist and Active Park Assist 2.0 to take some of the driving stress away that can warn and automatically apply emergency brakes if obstacles are within close proximity while backing up as well as automatically steer your vehicle for parallel and perpendicular parking.
Modernized Powertrain
The 2020 Ford Explorer’s lower XLT and Limited trim comes equipped with a standard 2.3L 4-cylinder Ecoboost engine that will push out 300 horsepower and 310 lbs.ft of torque while the Platinum trim gets a beefier 3.0L Ecoboost V6 producing 365 horsepower and 380 lbs.ft of torque. Available in its model lineup is also the performance oriented ST trim that comes with a performance tuned 3.0L V6 variant that will boast a potent 400 horsepower and 415 lbs feet of torque. All trims are offered with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Intelligent 4WD system with 8 selectable drive modes (Normal, Trail, Deep Snow/Sand, Slippery Sport, Tow/Haul and Eco mode.
Towing capacity is also rated at 5,600 lbs with its AdvanceTrac system that continuously monitors and mitigate trailer sway for improved stability.
UTILITARIAN INTERIOR
Interior is well crafted with dual captain seats in the second row and a single 3-passenger 3rd row seating. Thank to its oversized 10.1” portrait infotainment screen, the center console is tidied up with a beautiful brushed aluminum center climate control panel and a rotary shifter dial control for add convenience and ergonomics.
Available as a purchase option is also the Twin-Panel Moonroof that expands all the way to the rear 3rd row passenger seat.
Cargo space is easily expandable with a push of a button to fold the 3rd row 50/50 seats as well as the 2nd row seating with quick retract for easy access.
Equipped with the Explorer is also the FordPass Connect mobile app that allows you to monitor your vehicle health, provide security access and remote engine start.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Ford has managed to take advantage of its crown jewel while adding additional tech and performance features such as 4WD and excellent towing capacity to beat its competitors namely the Honda Pilot and Toyota 4runner. Starting price for the XLT is well priced at $40,466 while the upper Platinum trim sets you back at $58,643. The 2.3L 4-cylinder trims available in the XLT and Limited trim provide adequate power at 300 horses, but for those frequenting full 7-passengers and towing, the 3.0L V6 variant available in the ST and Platinum trim is recommended for added power output.
