Ford Unveils Redesigned, More-powerful 2020 Explorer SUV

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Ford has unveiled its 2020 Explorer. // Photograph Courtesy of Ford Motor Co.

Ford Motor Co. Wednesday introduced its all-new 2020 Explorer — a complete redesign of America’s best-selling SUV — that the automaker says now features more power, space, and smart technologies.

The unveiling took place at Ford Field in downtown Detroit during a special reveal event for employees, fans, dealers, suppliers, government officials, and media.

Ford’s new flexible rear-wheel-drive architecture makes the SUV more capable, comfortable, sportier, and roomier in all three rows, according to the manufacturer.

“Explorer drivers told us what they want — more capability, more power, more space,” say Hau Thai-Tang, Ford’s head of product development and purchasing. “They want more technology, not just for the driver, but for the whole family. And they want all of it with a beautifully sporty exterior. This new Explorer gives them all of that, and more, helping make every journey more enjoyable.”

Improved off-road capability comes courtesy of intelligent four-wheel drive and an available new Terrain Management System that features seven easy-to-engage drive modes. Powertrain offerings include a 3.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V6 projected to produce 365 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque using 93-octane gas, making this the most powerful Explorer ever, Ford says. The Explorer lineup now features standard, XLT, Limited, Limited Hybrid, ST and Platinum models.

The all-new Explorer comes with more than a dozen new standard features for $400 more over the previous model. Standard features include a power liftgate, 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with all-new 10-speed transmission, 8-inch digital touch screen with SYNC 3, FordPass Connect Wi-Fi service for up to 10 devices and more.

“We obsessed about what Explorer customers need and want,” says Bill Gubing, chief engineer of the Explorer. “We met with customer groups, pored through internet forums, and dissected social media posts to determine what they love about today’s Explorer and understand their pain points. Then we found ways to improve it across the board. Every enhancement on this all-new Explorer was inspired by our customers.”

Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 technology features include:

  • Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Pedestrian Detection
  • Forward Collision Warning
  • Dynamic Brake Support
  • Blind Spot Information System
  • Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Lane-Keeping System
  • Rearview camera with built-in lens cleaner
  • Auto headlamps with auto high-beams
  • Evasive Steering Assist
  • Post-Impact Braking

Explorer’s optional technology features include:

  • Active Park Assist 2.0.
  • Reverse brake assist
  • Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Speed Sign Recognition

“It’s not about filling the vehicle with technology for technology’s sake,” says Chris Billman, Ford’s Co-Pilot360 engineering manager. “It’s about improving the experience, making driving less stressful, and helping the driver to feel more confident behind the wheel.”

The all-new Explorer is manufactured at Ford’s Chicago Assembly Plant, and are due in showrooms this summer.