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The Ford manufacturer is currently testing its well-know seven-seat SUV, the 2020 Ford Explorer. The upcoming Explorer will represent the second generation model and it is going to bring many upgrades. For starters, it will ride on the new platform which will make it a bit larger than the current model. However, despite the increase in size, the Explorer will be lighter than before and will come with improved fuel efficiency. Furthermore, we expect some small changes in styling and this time we will probably see a hybrid version of the famous SUV.
Engines and performances of the 2020 Ford Explorer
The next generation model, the 2020 Ford Explorer is expected to return with the same engine options as the current model, but we will also see some new units in the offer. So, the base will continue to be a 2.3-liter inline-4 turbocharged engine which is also available for the XLT and Limited trim levels. This unit can produce 280 horses and 310 pound-feet of torque. There is a choice between front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. The front-wheel drive model gets 19/27 mpg while the all-wheel drive unit is rated at 18/25 mpg in the city/highway.
The next is a 3.5-liter V-6 which is available for the base and XLT models. This one is able to make 290 hp and the torque of 255 lb-ft. The front-wheel drive variant is estimated to be 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. However, the AWD model gets 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
There is also a 3.5-liter V-6 twin-turbocharged engine with the output of 365 horses and 350 pound-feet of torque. This one comes with all-wheel drive system and gets 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. All the engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. However, according to the latest news, the carmaker is planning to introduce the new Explorer SRT model which might replace the current Sport trim level. Furthermore, it is very likely that the 2020 Ford Explorer will be powered with a hybrid engine also, but we don’t have any more details for now.
Redesign of exterior and new platform
The all-new 2020 Ford Explorer should ride on the new platform with front-wheel drive system as standard while it will also offer an all-wheel drive layout. This new architecture will most likely be the same one which is used for the Lincoln Aviator. So, we expect the increase in size but despite that, the new Ford should be lighter than before because of the usage of more lightweight materials such as aluminum. As well, the upcoming Explorer will most likely show significant improvements in fuel economy.
Speaking of the exterior look, the 2020 Ford Explorer has been caught during its testing and wearing camouflage. And based on the spy photos, the Ford seems to grow in size a bit. But, we could also conclude that it will feature a similar boxy shape as before. As well, this time we expect some changes in the lights treatment and perhaps grille.
The interior design of the 2020 Ford Explorer
The cabin of the 2020 Ford Explorer is very spacious, as before, and perhaps it will offer even more room because of the new larger platform. It comes with three-row seating configuration. The third row is suitable even for adults and the second row comes with either two captain’s chairs which ease the access to the third row or a bench for three passengers. In the center of the dashboard, there is a standard 4.2-inch touchscreen for the latest Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system and which is now easier to use. However, the larger 8.0-inch screen will be offered in higher trim levels. The cargo space is pretty good. There is a room of 21 cubes behind the third row. However, with the second and the third row folded down, there is the cargo space of 81 cubic feet.
2020 Ford Explorer equipment
The base 2020 Ford Explorer offers cruise control, cloth upholstery, Bluetooth, an AM/FM/CD audio system with 6 speakers, a 4.2-inch screen, power features, steering-wheel audio and phone controls, a rearview camera, 18-inch wheels, and LED lights.
The XLT model will add satellite radio, a 10-way power driver’s seat, and keyless ignition. However, the optional Sport Appearance package will include 20-inch wheels, gray leather seats, a gray grille, and a black roof rack. The Limited adds ambient lighting, 20-inch wheels, heated second-row seats, heated and ventilated front seats, power folding third-row, and Sony audio system with 12 speakers. The range-topping Limited will come with leather, automatic park assist, a heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, a dual-pane moonroof, and forward-collision warning.
Release date and price
The all-new 2020 Ford Explorer should be ready to hit the market sometime during 2019. The price is not yet revealed. However, we believe that it will be slightly higher than its forerunner which starts at around $32,000.
