By Steve & Tamami Laser
Ford officially introduced the 2020 Explorer today during a special reveal event in Detroit. The all-new sixth-generation model, slated to go on sale at Ford dealers in the U.S. this summer, has been treated to a complete redesign.
Ford says the new Explorer features lighter, leaner and stronger construction, the largest model lineup in its 29-year history, more powerful and efficient engines, plus new technology. Models include the base Explorer, XLT, Limited, Limited Hybrid, ST, and Platinum.
Riding on a new rear-drive platform, Explorer is dressed with all-new styling while retaining some design cues from its predecessors, including blacked-out A- and D-pillars, with bodycolor C-pillars. The Platinum model (above and below) is the luxury flagship of the line.
With its shorter front overhang and sloping roofline, Explorer projects a sporty appearance. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard, while a variety of available designs includes 21-inch wheels on the Platinum. The top trim level also features a satin aluminum grille and roof rails.
Powertrains include a 2.3-liter EcoBoost® 4-cylinder engine with direct injection rated at 300 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque. A 3.0-liter EcoBoost® V6 initially rated at 365 horses and 380 lb.-ft. (using premium fuel) is standard on Platinum.
Ford says the 3.0-liter V6 is rated to tow up to 5,600 lbs., a 12 percent gain versus the previous 3.5-liter engine. The 2.3-liter 4-cylinder with Class III Towing Package is rated up to 5,300 lbs., compared to 3,000 lbs. for the outgoing model.
A new 10-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift® is standard. Intelligent four-wheel drive with front-axle disconnect is standard on Platinum and available on other models. A new Terrain Management System™ features up to seven driver-selectable modes: Normal, trail, deep snow and sand, slippery, sport, tow/haul and Eco.
While an 8-inch touchscreen is standard, a portrait-mounted capacitive 10.1-inch touchscreen (above and below) is Ford’s largest available touchscreen. Drivers can opt to parse the screen into separate sections, displaying music or incoming call information on one half and navigation maps on the other.
Ford’s latest SYNC 3 system is standard and compatible with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™. Also standard is FordPass Connect that includes 4G LTE Wi-Fi for up to 10 mobile devices with a compatible wireless subscription service.
Explorer Platinum is loaded with luxury touches including tri-diamond perforated leather-trimmed seats with accent stitching, leather-wrapped front console and door armrests, “real Ash Swirl wood applique,” and a twin-panel moonroof.
Second-row seats offer a new design that allows for easy entry and exit to the third row using one hand. For added comfort, retractable sunshades are available for the second-row side windows.
Available PowerFold® third-row seats let users create a flat floor that Ford says is wide enough to accommodate 4-foot building materials (depending on the seating configuration).
Explorer’s suite of standard driver-assist technologies, dubbed Ford Co-Pilot360™, includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert, and Lane-Keeping System. Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Speed Sign Recognition, Evasive Steering Assist, and Post-Impact Braking are also available.
News source and photos courtesy of Ford Motor Company
Note: Preliminary vehicle features, specifications, and launch dates for U.S. models are subject to change without notice
Story (commentary) © 2019 CarNichiWa.com