2024 Ford Explorer Hybrid Availability, Cost, Colors – The all-new Ford Explorer was unveiled for sale in America in 2024 as the best-selling crossover SUV in the country. Earlier this year, Ford introduced a hybrid version of the new Explorer, and that vehicle will return in 2024, but with a few tweaks. 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque are generated by a 3.3-liter V6 engine coupled to an electric motor in the Ford Explorer Hybrid model. A 10-speed automatic transmission sends power to either the front or rear wheels. Ford’s eco-friendly SUV was previously only available in the Limited trim last year, but it is now available in the top-of-the-line Platinum grade. It’s a powerful SUV, but the Ford Explorer Hybrid isn’t built for off-roading, and while the hybridized motor gives better fuel economy than the standard gasoline version, it isn’t class-leading mpg. The new Kia Sorento and Toyota Highlander Hybrid will put the Explorer Hybrid to the test in the segment, and it will have to work harder to stand out.
Despite its low ranking, the Ford Explorer Hybrid is a refined SUV. Cargo space is ample, the ride is composed, and the handling is precise. It is also capable of traversing a sand or dirt track with ease. However, Ford’s fuel economy is below average compared to comparable hybrid SUVs. There’s also an underwhelming interior, thanks to poor plastics and clunky infotainment controls. The second and third seats are also cramped.
Redesign of the Ford Explorer Hybrid for the 2020s
In 2024, the Ford Explorer received a considerable overhaul. As expected, it’s still as handsome as ever. The grille finish varies greatly depending on the model’s trim level. Standard are LED headlights with DRLS, although LED fog lamps are available on higher levels. Alloy wheels measuring 18 to 21 inches in diameter are available. The wheel wells have been pushed further towards the corners because this is an RWD vehicle from Ford. Ground clearance on all Explorers is adequate for a midsize SUV, at 7.9 inches. You can tell from the side perspective that Ford has pushed the vehicle’s proportions, especially in the rear window. The vehicle’s back end has a modest appearance. Black exterior highlights and ST-Line badging set the new ST-Line trim apart from the rest of the lineup.
The Chevy Traverse is a midsize SUV, but it’s larger than most of its peers. For those who park in confined spaces, this can be an issue. Entry and exit are made simple thanks to the Honda Pilot’s low ground clearance. Compared to the Ford Explorer, the Kia Telluride has a smaller wheelbase. As a result, it occupies less external area, contributing to its speed. Also included are new exterior color options (Carbonized Gray, Infinite Blue, and Stone Gray) and better interior finish options.
Interior
Despite a lackluster interior design, the Explorer’s cabin is valuable and pleasant, at least for those in the first two rows. A system pulls the second-row seat out of the way when you press a button, making it quite simple to get into the third row. On the other hand, older children and adults may find the seat uncomfortable once they return. Third-row competitors such as the Chevrolet Traverse and Volkswagen Atlas offer more comfortable third-row seating. After folding both back seats flat, we could accommodate four carry-on suitcases behind Ford’s third row and 31 bags.
It has an 8.0-inch touchscreen display, which features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The interface is appealing and responsive but isn’t as user-friendly as we’d hoped. That’s where a rotatory controller comes in. For the 10.1-inch vertically oriented screen, you’ll need to buy one of the most expensive trims of the Explorer. Even so, every model comes standard with a rear-seat entertainment system and voice-activated navigation. B&O’s 12-speaker sound system is standard on all but the base Explorer model.
Engine
A 3.3-liter V6 gas engine and an electric motor make up the sole powertrain in this vehicle. Three hundred eighty-eight horsepower is generated when they work together. There is a 10-speed automatic transmission as a standard option. As of this year, the 2024 Ford Explorer Hybrid is available in two trim levels: the Limited and the Platinum, respectively. A total of 319 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque are produced by the 3.3-liter gas engine linked to an electric hybrid powertrain. A ten-speed automatic transmission may send power to either the rear or all four wheels, although only the AWD version of the Platinum is available.
Almost all hybrid SUVs give superior gas mileage. The EPA evaluates the rear-wheel-drive versions of this hybrid at 27 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. That decreases to 23 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the road with four-wheel drive. A four-wheel purpose is an option, but it’s not required. Even on rough roads, the Explorer Hybrid’s ride is generally smooth. Thanks to its superb handling, well-weighted steering, and powerful brakes, it’s a joy to move. This SUV would be athletic if it weren’t for a little body roll.
2024 Ford Explorer Hybrid price and release date
Only the Limited and Platinum versions of the Ford Explorer hybrid are available. To get the Ford Explorer Hybrid Limited, you’ll need to shell out $50,105 in MSRP, which does not include taxes, registration, or the $1,245 delivery fee. A 4WD vehicle costs an extra $2,000 to purchase. You’ll have to shell out an additional $53,335 if you opt for the Platinum trim, which has some excellent standard amenities but is only available with an all-wheel drive. The Ford Explorer Hybrid will go on sale in the United States in the summer of 2024.