Ford Explorer Hybrid 2024 Specs, AWD, Pricing – In 2024, Ford unveils a wholly redesigned Explorer, one of the most popular crossover SUVs in the United States. In addition to the all-new Explorer, a hybrid version was also released, and it will make a comeback in 2021 with a few upgrades. A 3.3-liter V6 engine and an electric motor work together to give the Ford Explorer Hybrid 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission can route the engine’s output to the front wheels, the rear, or both. Unlike last year, when the Hybrid was only available in Limited trim, Ford is now offering its eco-friendly SUV in Platinum trim as well. The Ford Explorer Hybrid is a competent sport utility vehicle (SUV) but wasn’t built for serious off-roading. Similarly, the hybridized powertrain provides better fuel economy than the standard gasoline version, but it isn’t the most fuel-efficient car in its class. The Explorer Hybrid will need to put in some extra effort to compete with the recently released Kia Sorento Hybrid and the perennial favorite Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
However low it may be on the list, the Ford Explorer Hybrid is still a competent crossover. It has a roomy trunk, a quiet cabin, composed handling, and a peppy engine. It is so versatile that it can easily travel over rough terrain like dirt or sand. Nonetheless, Ford’s fuel economy ratings fall short compared to other hybrid SUVs. It also has a disappointing interior, with cheap plastics, hard-to-use controls for the entertainment system, and not much room in the second and third rows, which is surprising given how much it costs to start.
Ford Explorer Hybrid 2024 Hybrid Redesign
There was a significant update to the Ford Explorer in the year 2020. It still looks as slick as ever. Different grille material is used for each trim. In addition to the DRLS-equipped LED headlights on the upper edges, you also get LED fog lights. Alloy rims of various sizes, from 18 to 21 inches, are available. Ford made the wheel wells on this vehicle more rounded since it has rear-wheel drive. The Explorer has decent ground clearance for a midsize SUV at 7.9 inches. Ford has elongated the car, especially around the back window, as seen from the side. The vehicle’s rear design is understated. The new ST-Line model’s exterior and badges are black to set it apart from the rest of the lineup.
The Chevrolet Traverse is classified as a midsize SUV, though it is significantly bigger than vehicles in the same class. In confined parking spaces, this could be an issue. The Honda Pilot has low ground clearance, making entering and exiting the vehicle simple. Compared to the Ford Explorer, the wheelbase of the Kia Telluride is noticeably shorter. Therefore, it accelerates while simultaneously requiring less external space. Also, the lineup has a few new exterior colors (Carbonized Gray, Infinite Blue, and Stone Gray) and updated interior finishes, among many other minor changes.
Interior
The first two rows of the Explorer’s cabin are spacious and comfortable, so maybe the interior design isn’t the most useful, but it gets the job done. The typical third row can be accessed with little hassle thanks to a mechanism that slides the second-row seat forward at the push of a button. However, older children and adults will discover that the heart is too low. The third-row seats in rivals like the Chevrolet Traverse and the Volkswagen Atlas are roomier and more luxurious. With the third row folded down, we could fit four suitcases behind the second, and with both rows folded down, we could do a total of 31 bags in the Ford.
Standard features include a Wi-Fi hotspot and an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Although visually appealing and reasonably responsive, the system lacks the intuitiveness we would prefer. This is where a rotatory controller comes in handy. You’ll need to spring for one of the Explorer’s priciest trims to take advantage of the available 10.1-inch, vertically oriented screen. Still, every model can be equipped with a rear-seat entertainment system and voice-activated navigation. A B&O sound system with 12 speakers is standard equipment on all Explorers, besides the entry-level model.
Engine
This vehicle has only a 3.3-liter V6 gas engine and an electric motor. They add up to 318 horsepower. Standard equipment includes a 10-speed automatic transmission. As of the 2021 model year, buyers of the hybrid Ford Explorer can select between the Limited and Platinum trim levels. Combined with the electric hybrid system, the same 3.3-liter gas engine provides 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque for both vehicles. Automatic transmission with ten gears sends power to either the rear or all four wheels, though AWD is standard on the Platinum trim level only.
The EPA estimates that this Hybrid’s city fuel economy is 27 mpg and highway fuel economy is 28 mpg for rear-wheel drive models. This decreases to 23 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway when equipped with four-wheel drive. In terms of gas mileage, nearly every hybrid SUV today is an improvement. Generally, the Explorer Hybrid has a smooth ride, though it can become jarring over bumps. It’s impressive in its handling, with well-weighted steering and powerful brakes. This SUV almost qualifies as athletic if not for some noticeable body roll. Drivetrain options include both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
Ford Explorer Hybrid 2024 Release Date and Price
You can choose between the Limited and the Platinum trim level for the Ford Explorer Hybrid 2024. The RWD Ford Explorer Hybrid Limited has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $50,105 (not including tax, registration, or the destination charge of $1,245). There is a $2,000 surcharge for 4WD. The Platinum trim, the top of the lineup, adds some tasty standard features but is only available in AWD guise, and for that, you pay extra: this model will set you back $53,335 without options. The new and improved Ford Explorer Hybrid will be released in June 2023 as a 2024 model.