• Homepage
  • News
  • The 2020 Ford Explorer goes back to its roots with a rear-drive platform, yet adds more tech goodies

The 2020 Ford Explorer goes back to its roots with a rear-drive platform, yet adds more tech goodies

By Gerard
.
January 10, 2019

As the Ford Explorer nears its 30th birthday, Ford Motor Company returns to its roots and unveils the latest-generation model with its vaunted rear-wheel drive platform. The 2020 Explorer may look modern yet it has a touch or two that tie it in with its colorful past.

The platform, as mentioned is mainly rear-drive. This means the engine is mounted longitudinally and sends power to the back wheels. Of course, all-wheel drive is available for those that want the assurance of more grip. Either way, buyers can opt for either a 300hp 2.3-liter turbocharged four or the top-spec 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 with 365 horses.

Both engines are paired with a 10-speed auto and feature a multi-mode drive select system. The rear-drive model gets 6 choices while the Terrain Management system on the all-wheel drive version adds an extra mode for snow and mud.

Besides being a workhorse, the new Explorer is likewise a family-friendly 7-seater. The second-row seats slide forwards and backwards, easing entry into the third row. There are toys galore such as 4G LTE Wifi Hotspot, wireless charging, a large 8-inch center touchscreen that can be spec’d to 10.25 inches in portrait configuration, and a 12.3-inch driver info display, just to name a few.

Safety features also abound, such as Pilot360 that integrates all the collision avoidance and driver assist tech for a total semi-autonomous driving experience. There is also theActive Park Asssit 2.0 that can now steer, brake, and even accelerate the vehicle into either a parallel or perpendicular parking space.

Expect to see the 2020 Ford Explorer hit dealerships in the U.S iduring the third quarter of the year.

Related Posts

Pause

About the Author

Mr. Gerard Jude Castillo
Gerard has been a self-confessed car nut ever since he was a little boy. As a grown-up, he indulges in his passion by collecting toy cars (which he started since childhood) and reading up on the latest cars out there.  As Associate Editor, he will ensure that you get your fill of the latest cars in the market, as well as a load of automotive features.