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Later this year, we can expect the arrival of the newest 2019 Ford Explorer and Explorer Sport. However, this handsome SUV will probably arrive with the same engines, equipment, and design since the carmaker is planning the next generation of this model in 2020 when it should get a complete overhaul. So, the Explorer will be available in the base, XLE, Limited, Sport and Platinum trim levels. It will also come with a standard three-row seating configuration, the same engines choices, and equipment. Its main rivals will include Mazda CX-9, Chevrolet Traverse, and Hyundai Santa Fe.
Engines and performances of the 2019 Ford Explorer and Explorer Sport
The 2019 Ford Explorer will return with three engine choices as before. The one is a 3.5-liter V-6 engine which is found in the base and XLT versions. This unit has the output of 290 hp and 255 pound-feet of torque. It comes with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive layout. The FWD version gets 17/24 mpg while the AWD model is rated at 16/22 mpg in the city/highway.
The next is a 2.3-liter inline-4 turbocharged engine which is also available in the base, XLT, and Limited models. It is able to deliver 280 horses and 310 pound-feet of torque. Connected to front-wheel drive, this engine is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The AWD version gets 18/25 mpg.
The Sport and Platinum models are powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine. This unit has the output of 365 horses and 350 pound-feet of torque. The all-wheel drive system is standard for these trim levels. As for the fuel economy, it is estimated to be 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. All the engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The maximum towing capacity is up to 5,000 pounds.
Exterior design
The 2019 Ford Explorer looks powerful, unique, and muscular. The front end wears high gloss black grille with black bars and prominent headlamps with standard LED lighting in the top trim levels and LED fog lights. On the rear end, there are quad chrome exhaust outlets, body-color liftgate spoiler, and LED taillights which feature unique blackout treatment on the Sport version. The base model will ride on the 18-inch wheels while the Sport model will use the larger 20-inch wheels. Furthermore, the Sport model will get a more aggressive appearance with blacked out trim while the Limited and Platinum will get more chrome details.
Design of interior of the 2019 Ford Explorer and Ford Explorer Sport
The interior of the 2019 Ford Explorer looks more contemporary and modern. It comes standard with three rows of seats and it can welcome up to seven passengers comfortably. The third row is also wide and suitable for adults. The second row is offered with either a bench which can place three passengers or with two bucket seats which can accommodate two occupants. All the seats are comfortable and supportive and upholstered in cloth in the base trim. The higher trim levels get leather upholstery. The cargo space is also pretty generous; it offers the room of 21 cubic feet. However, for more cargo room, with the second and third row folded down, there is a space of 81 cubic feet. The dashboard features a standard 4.2-inch touchscreen.
Equipment and safety features in the 2019 Ford Explorer and Explorer Sport
The 2019 Ford Explorer will be sold in the base, XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum versions. The base is equipped with cruise control, cloth seats, steering wheel audio and phone controls, Bluetooth, a 4.2-inch touchscreen with Ford’s Sync infotainment system, an AM/FM/CD audio system with 6 speakers, 18-inch wheels, a rearview camera, air conditioning, and power features. The XLT version will add satellite radio, keyless ignition, navigation, and 10-way power driver’s seat. The Sport Appearance package will also be available. And it will include gray grille, 20-inch wheels, a black roof rack, and gray leather upholstery with suede and accent stitching.
Furthermore, the Limited model will come with ambient lighting, heated and ventilated wheels, leather upholstery, the heated second row of seats, 20-inch wheels, a power folding third row, and Sony system with 12 speakers. The Sport trim level will add 20-inch wheels and tires, a sport suspension, all-wheel drive layout, a black exterior trim, and a twin-turbo V-6 engine. The Platinum model will be available with a dual-pane moonroof, automatic park assist, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, woodgrain trim, a heated steering wheel, and leather.
The standard safety features include a rearview camera, sway control for easier towing, automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, stability control, airbags, traction control, and belt-minder.
Release date and price
The new 2019 Ford Explorer should arrive sometime during this year. The price of the base model will begin at around $32,000. However, the price of the Sport and Platinum models will be between $46,000 and $54,000.
