Introduction: The Resurgence of the Ford Explorer
When Ford released the 2020 Ford Explorer, it wasn’t just another SUV update. This was a full-on redesign—one that returned the model to a rear-wheel-drive platform and brought it in line with modern tech, safety, and performance standards. The 2020 Explorer came out swinging, targeting everyone from suburban families to off-road adventurers. And with its completely revamped architecture, the Explorer firmly re-established itself as a front-runner in the midsize SUV market.
Back in the ’90s, the Explorer was a cultural icon, practically defining the SUV category. But as time passed, newer, flashier, and more efficient SUVs crowded the market. Ford needed to do something big to get back into the game. That big move came in 2020. Whether you’re looking for three-row comfort, punchy turbo engines, or a sleek design, the 2020 Explorer covers all bases—and then some.
This article dives deep into everything you need to know about the 2020 Ford Explorer. From trims and tech to driving impressions and fuel economy, consider this your ultimate guide to one of Ford’s most ambitious SUV projects in years.
A Complete Redesign: New Platform, New Possibilities
One of the most significant changes in the 2020 Ford Explorer is its move to a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) architecture. For the first time since 2010, the Explorer broke away from its front-wheel-drive-based platform and returned to a layout that purists and performance enthusiasts tend to love. This platform is shared with the Lincoln Aviator, a luxury sibling that helped influence some of the upscale touches in the Explorer.
This new setup means better handling, improved towing capacity,2020 ford explorer and a more dynamic driving experience. If you’re upgrading from a previous-generation Explorer, the difference is immediately noticeable. The car feels more planted, less floaty, and more responsive to driver inputs. This change alone gave the Explorer a new level of versatility—it became a vehicle as comfortable hauling kids to soccer practice as it is towing a camper or jet ski for the weekend.
Ford also managed to drop some weight from the previous generation, despite the addition of more tech and larger dimensions. With a more balanced chassis and a lower center of gravity, the 2020 Explorer simply drives better. It feels like Ford took feedback from critics and customers seriously—and responded with a bold new approach.
Trim Levels: Something for Everyone
One of the most appreciated aspects of the 2020 Explorer is its wide range of trim options. Ford offers several trims to suit different budgets and lifestyles: Base, XLT, Limited, ST, and Platinum. Each comes with its own unique set of features and engine configurations, making it easy for buyers to find the perfect fit.
The Base model is well-equipped, offering a decent infotainment setup, standard safety features, and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It’s a great starting point for those who want the Explorer experience without breaking the bank. Next up, the XLT trim builds on that with upgraded interior materials, additional USB ports, and more convenience features. It’s a sweet spot for many buyers.
Then there’s the Limited trim, which brings a more upscale feel. You get leather upholstery,2020 ford explorer a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system, and a larger touchscreen. If performance is what you crave, the ST trim is where it’s at. With a twin-turbo V6 engine producing 400 horsepower, the ST turns the family hauler into a street-savvy performer. Finally, the Platinum trim is the luxury option—loaded with tech, chrome accents, and all the bells and whistles you could ask for.
Under the Hood: Performance and Powertrains
Ford made sure the 2020 Explorer had a wide range of engine options to meet different needs. The base engine is a 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It’s surprisingly peppy and more than capable for daily driving and long road trips alike.
If you want more grunt, step up to the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 found in the ST and Platinum trims. This engine pumps out 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque in the ST, making it the most powerful Explorer ever built. And yes, it feels just as fast as the numbers suggest. Acceleration is smooth and immediate, and the 10-speed automatic transmission does a great job keeping things efficient and responsive.
Let’s not forget about the hybrid variant. Ford also introduced a 3.3-liter V6 hybrid powertrain in the 2020 Explorer, available in the Limited Hybrid trim. It provides a combined output of 318 horsepower and offers impressive fuel economy for a vehicle of its size. This makes it an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers who still need the space and capability of an SUV.
Interior Comfort: Room for Everyone
Step inside the 2020 Ford Explorer, and you’ll quickly notice how spacious and thoughtfully designed it is. With three rows of seating, the Explorer comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers.2020 ford explorer Whether you’re ferrying the kids to school or taking friends out for a weekend trip, everyone’s got room to stretch out.
The materials in the cabin range from practical in the base model to downright luxurious in the Platinum trim. Leather seats, real wood accents, and customizable ambient lighting make the higher trims feel borderline premium. And the new layout—thanks to that RWD platform—means more cargo room and legroom, especially in the second and third rows.
Tech-wise, the Explorer is no slouch. Most trims come with an 8-inch touchscreen powered by Ford’s SYNC 3 system. It supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and even offers optional built-in navigation.2020 ford explorer Upper trims get a 10.1-inch portrait-style screen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that’s as sharp as it is informative.
Infotainment and Connectivity: Keeping Everyone Entertained
Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system is intuitive and snappy, giving drivers quick access to media, navigation, and phone integration. Voice commands are fairly accurate, and the system doesn’t lag like some of its competitors. Whether you’re streaming Spotify or taking calls on the go, the system handles it all with ease.
Rear-seat passengers aren’t left out either.2020 ford explorer The 2020 Explorer offers an optional rear-seat entertainment system, perfect for long drives. Multiple USB ports and available Wi-Fi hotspot capability ensure that everyone’s devices stay charged and connected.
The Bang & Olufsen sound system—available on the higher trims—adds a touch of audiophile delight to the mix. With 12 speakers and crisp output, it makes a strong case for ditching your headphones and enjoying the ride.
Cargo Space and Practicality: More Than Meets the Eye
One of the standout features of the 2020 Ford Explorer is its practicality. With all seats in place, you get about 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space—plenty for groceries, gym bags, or a couple of carry-ons. Fold down the third row, and that expands to 47.9 cubic feet. With both the second and third rows down, you’re looking at a cavernous 87.8 cubic feet.
The power-folding third-row seats (available on higher trims) make it super easy to switch between passenger and cargo configurations. The hands-free liftgate is another thoughtful addition, especially when your hands are full with gear or shopping bags.
Small storage solutions throughout the cabin—like deep door pockets, a large center console, and clever under-floor storage—add to the Explorer’s everyday convenience. It’s the kind of SUV that adapts to your needs on the fly, whether you’re hauling kids, dogs, camping gear, or all of the above.
Safety Features: Confidence on Every Drive
Ford packed the 2020 Explorer with an impressive array of standard and optional safety tech. Every trim comes with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems that includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, and automatic high beams.
Upper trims add features like adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering, and evasive steering assist. The available 360-degree camera system makes parking and low-speed maneuvers a breeze, even in tight city spots.
The 2020 Explorer earned good ratings in crash tests and overall safety. It’s engineered to keep you and your passengers safe—and that peace of mind is invaluable when you’re out on the road with your family.
Fuel Economy: Balanced Efficiency
Given its size and power, the 2020 Explorer delivers respectable fuel efficiency. The base 2.3-liter turbocharged engine offers up to 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway in RWD configuration. The ST and Platinum trims, with their more powerful engines, do drop those numbers a bit, hovering around 18/24 mpg.
The real star in the fuel economy game is the Limited Hybrid, which boasts an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. For a three-row SUV with decent towing capability, that’s nothing to scoff at.
Thanks to the 10-speed automatic transmission, the Explorer makes efficient use of its power across various driving scenarios. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or stuck in stop-and-go traffic, the transitions are smooth, and the engine stays within its optimal efficiency range.
Driving Impressions: Smooth, Confident, and Fun
The 2020 Explorer doesn’t just look sporty—it drives that way, too. The RWD setup contributes to a more dynamic feel behind the wheel. Steering is responsive, and the ride quality is smooth even on less-than-ideal roads.
The ST trim is especially fun to drive. With 400 horsepower on tap and a sport-tuned suspension, it feels more like a performance crossover than a traditional SUV. The throaty exhaust note and snappy acceleration make you forget you’re in a three-row family vehicle.
Even the base model is a pleasure to drive. It’s quiet, composed, and handles bumps and potholes without drama. Whether you’re taking a long road trip or just running errands around town, the 2020 Explorer offers a driving experience that’s both refined and engaging.
Final Thoughts: Is the 2020 Explorer Worth It?
If you’re in the market for a midsize SUV that does just about everything well, the 2020 Ford Explorer deserves a serious look. It combines solid performance, family-friendly features, and a stylish design into one cohesive package. The range of trims ensures there’s something for everyone, from budget-conscious buyers to luxury seekers.
The return to a rear-wheel-drive platform adds a level of driving enjoyment that was missing in previous models. Combine that with a spacious interior, strong safety scores, and modern infotainment, and you’ve got a winner on your hands.
Sure, there are competitors like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Kia Telluride, but few offer the same blend of power, versatility, and personality. The 2020 Ford Explorer is more than just a facelift—it’s a statement.
So, is it worth it? Absolutely. Whether you’re hauling a boat, your family, or just cruising in comfort, the 2020 Explorer is a well-rounded machine that proves Ford still knows how to build a world-class SUV.
FAQs
1. What engines are available in the 2020 Ford Explorer? The 2020 Explorer offers three main powertrains: a 2.3-liter EcoBoost I4 (300 hp), a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 (400 hp in ST, 365 hp in Platinum), and a 3.3-liter hybrid V6 (318 hp combined).
2. How many people can the 2020 Explorer seat? The Explorer seats up to seven passengers, depending on the configuration. Some trims offer second-row captain’s chairs, which reduce capacity to six but improve comfort.
3. Is the 2020 Ford Explorer good for towing? Yes, towing capacity varies by trim and powertrain. The maximum towing capacity is up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped.
4. Does the 2020 Explorer have all-wheel drive? Yes, AWD is available on all trims and standard on performance-oriented models like the ST.
5. How does the 2020 Explorer compare to rivals? It holds its own against rivals like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Kia Telluride. The RWD platform and performance trims give it a unique edge in driving dynamics.
