The fully redesigned 2020 Ford Explorer offers improved handling, a lineup of peppy engines, and a long list of impressive standard safety and technology features. With your choice of four trim levels, which one is right for you? Let’s review each variant of the new Explorer SUV so you can pick the best one for this adventure called life.
The Base XLT
One of the main differences between the Explorer trim levels is the standard powertrain. The base XLT features a 300-horsepower four-cylinder engine and standard rear-wheel drive. It comes outfitted with cloth upholstery, second-row captain’s chairs featuring power-assist fold, a power liftgate, and a 50/50 split third-row bench seat. Added comfort features include tri-zone automatic climate control, and push-button, remote start.
You’ll appreciate Ford’s advanced SYNC 3 infotainment system, complete with an 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two front-row USB ports, plus two second-row ports. There’s the convenience of an integrated Wi-Fi hot spot, satellite radio, and a variety of safety features including Ford’s MyKey safe driving system, Co-Pilot360, and rear parking sensors.
The Mid-Range Limited
Add a touch of class to your daily grind with the Explorer Limited. It boasts genuine leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, heated front and second-row seats, ventilated, 10-way power-adjustable front seat, and power-folding third-row seats. A hands-free liftgate and power-folding mirrors are also included with the mid-range Limited variant.
Get a slew of technology upgrades at this trim level, including a coveted 12-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system, wireless device charging, and a household-style power outlet. Plenty of additional safety features come with this trim, too. You’ll get the added protection of a 360-degree parking camera, rain-sensitive windshield wipers, front parking sensors, plus Co-Pilot360 Assist+. This suite of active safety features offers adaptive cruise control, stop-and-go capability, street sign recognition, lane keeping assistant, evasive steering assist, and voice-activated navigation.
The backbone of the Explorer’s sporty ST is the lively 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine. The previous generation’s Sport variant, this athletic trim generates 365 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque to take you wherever your busy life leads. With attractive black exterior styling elements, sport seats, and perforated leather upholstery, the ST stands out from the pack. Head off the beaten path with the ST’s sport-tuned suspension, four-wheel drive, and a class III tow package.
The Range-Topping Platinum
The top-of-the-line Platinum edition builds on all the added niceties of the Limited trim. It combines premium tri-diamond perforated leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, and a large, twin-panel moonroof. Techies will love the 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment center with familiar pinch and zoom capability.
Get the complete driver assistance package from Ford with this trim, including adaptive headlights and parallel and perpendicular parking active park assist. The Platinum is outfitted with four-wheel drive, a tow package, and front and rear skid plates.
The 2020 Ford Explorer does a lot of things well, from its comfortable interior to its high-performance capabilities. Test drive your favorite trim at a Ford showroom near you.
Image by Ford.com
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