Ford Explorer ST & Hybrid 2020

Recently unveiled 2020 Ford Explorer will get two new variants: A sporty ST and a more fuel-efficient hybrid. Both models will debut at the 2019 Detroit Auto Show and go on sale this summer.

The ST badge was previously reserved for performance cars like the Focus ST and Fiesta ST, but now Ford is applying it to utility vehicles. Car enthusiasts consider it sacrilege, but it makes good business sense given the popularity of SUVs and crossovers. The first ST-badged utility vehicle, the Edge ST, left us wanting more — will the Explorer will be an improvement?

The 2020 Ford Explorer will offer two powertrains at launch. The standard engine will be a 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that makes a potent 300 horsepower. For those wanting even more output, a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 that makes up to 365 horsepower will be optional. Both engines are connected via a 10-speed automatic transmission. And Ford promises more powertrains to come, including a hybrid Explorer and a performance-oriented Explorer ST model.

New Explorers fitted with the V6 will be able to tow up to 5,600 pounds, while those with the 4-cylinder can pull up to 5,300 pounds – that’s significantly more than the 3,000 pounds of the current model.

For those who want to really want to explore, the Explorer will continue to boast a terrain management system. The new model will now boast seven drive modes: normal, trail, deep snow and sand, slippery, sport, tow/haul, and a new eco mode.

More tech, more safety

Even more than what’s under the hood, today’s Explorer buyers prioritize technology and safety features, and the Explorer promises to pack in those features, too. All models will come with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite of safety and driving-assist features. The system is laudable in that it bundles automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping system, and pedestrian detection.

While most of the Explorer’s competitors offer similar systems, we like that Ford is paying attention to the details. For example, the new Explorer’s rearview camera has a built-in lens cleaner.

Other standard features include 4G LTE that can allow up to 10 mobile devices to use the Explorer as a rolling Wi-Fi hotspot, an 8-inch touchscreen Sync3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, power tailgate, dual-zone climate control and 18-inch wheels.

The next-gen Explorer will also offer some first-of-its-kind features for a Ford, such as a 10.1-inch vertically oriented touch screen. Other available premium features will include a 14-speaker, 980-watt audio system from Bang & Olufsen, a 12.3-inch all digital instrument cluster, and a self-parking system that will enable the Explorer to parallel park itself.

Roomier interior, better cargo utility

The new 2020 Ford Explorer retains its 3-row/7-passenger interior layout, but this new version betters the outgoing model in both passenger room and utility. In addition to gains in head and hip room, the new Explorer will be able to hold a 4x8-foot sheet of plywood with the second and third rows folded.

Other helpful features include the option of hands-free tailgate operation, second-row sun blinds, and even a reversible cargo floor that can be easily cleaned.

Explorer Hybrid and ST models

In addition to the standard 2020 Ford Explorer, the automaker will be offering both high efficiency and performance variants in the Hybrid and ST models. The 2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid delivers a combined output of 318 horsepower from its 3.3-liter V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission with a built-in electric motor. Ford is promising a range of more than 500 miles between fill-ups, although EPA numbers and pricing will not be announced until closer to its on-sale date this summer.