If you are considering Ford’s top-selling SUV as your next vehicle, you’ll be happy to know that the 2020 Explorer has been completely revamped. So, what are the trim levels and body styles for Ford Explorer? We have extensively reviewed the 2020 Ford Explorer to give you a breakdown of what this SUV has to offer for power, handling, safety, comfort, and style.
Ford’s 2020 Explorer is available in five different trim levels ranging in MSRP from $32,765 to $58,250:
- Explorer
- Explorer XLT
- Explorer Limited
- Explorer Sport (ST)
- Explorer Platinum
Let’s take a closer look at the standard features of the Ford Explorer. Keep reading and, we’ll also compare higher-end trim levels so you know what an upgrade means for your Explorer.
What Are The Ford Explorer’s Standard Features?
New to Ford’s 2020 Explorer line-up are the Limited Hybrid trim and ST trim. But, when it comes to standard quality, what do Explorer’s trim packages have to offer? Check out your options:
Engine & Handling
Ford powers the Explorer with four engine options, each paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (Explorer, XLT, Limited)
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (Platinum)
- Enhanced 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (ST)
- Hybrid 3.3L V6 (Limited Hybrid)
As for handling, the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Ford Explorer comes equipped with 6 Selectable Drive Modes to put you in control of your driving experience.
Optional Intelligent 4WD, Terrain Management System (7 Selectable Drive Modes) and Hill Descent Control are available on all trim levels excluding the base model.
For an in-depth look at Explorer’s powerful towing capacities, check out this post: How Much Can a Ford Explorer Tow?
Fuel Economy
U.S. News and World Report ranks Ford’s base model Explorer highly among similar mid-size SUVs for an outstanding EPA estimated MPG of 27 city/29 highway.
Higher trim levels and optional 4WD will slightly alter the Explorer’s fuel efficiency ratings. For instance, XLT and Limited trims have an EPA estimated MPG of 21 city/28 highway. The sporty ST trim level has an EPA estimated MPG of 18 city/24 highway.
Safety Features
Drive with Ford’s Co-Pilot 360 technology, an unprecedented safety package standard on all Explorer trims:
- Pre-collision Assist with Automatic Braking
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross Traffic Alert
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Automatic high beam headlamps
- Rearview camera
Additionally, everyone rides safely with Ford’s standard features on each Explorer trim level:
- AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control
- Traction Control
- Safety Canopy System
- Belt Minder
- SOS Post-Crash Alert System
- Lower Anchors and Tether Anchors (LATCH) for children
Interior Comforts
The Explorer’s roomy 152.7 cubic-feet of interior space comfortably accommodates 6 passengers with second-row captain’s chairs or 7 passengers with second-row bench seating. Power adjust front-row seats and reclining second-row seats keep everyone comfortable.
Take a closer look at Explorer’s seating configurations: How Many Seats Does the Ford Explorer Have?
Infotainment
Drivers stay informed and passengers are entertained with Ford’s integrative, touchscreen infotainment system. Compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, everyone connects using a WiFi hotspot. Up to 9 charging ports (USB & 12V) are accessible throughout the vehicle. Use the FordPass App to monitor your Explorer and control remote access functions directly from your smartphone or Apple watch.
Cargo Space
Easily maneuver second-row 40/20/40 split and fold-flat seats and third-row 50/50 split and fold-flat seats to access Explorer’s cargo areas:
- 87.8 cubic-feet behind front-row
- 47.9 cubic-feet behind second-row
- 18.2 cubic-feet behind third-row
Exterior Style
You’ll get noticed when you roll up in Ford’s dynamic SUV. The redesigned 2020 Explorer combines boldness with beauty. LED headlights beam alongside a black grille, accentuating your color choice of Iconic Silver, Oxford White, Blue, or Magnetic. The Explorer’s 18” painted aluminum wheels complete the package.
What Is The Difference Between Ford Explorer And Sport?
Additional standard features on the Explorer Sport (ST) enhance the safety, handling, and comfort of this trim when compared to the base Explorer.
ST Power & Handling
The Explorer ST is Ford’s most powerful, mid-size SUV. Equipped with Ford’s Enhanced 3.0L EcoBoost V6 engine, Explorer ST has 400-horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Capable of towing up to 5,600-lbs, the ST trim level comes standard with Ford’s Trailer Tow Package and Class III hitch receiver.
ST Safety Features
Ford’s Co-Pilot 360+ Plus provides additional driver assist features:
- Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Voice-Activated Navigation
ST Exterior Style & Interior Comfort
Make a bold statement with high-gloss “EXPLORER” hood lettering on the ST trim. Enhanced styling includes:
- High-gloss black grille and red ST logo
- Quad chrome exhaust tips
- 21” aluminum wheels (optional high-performance pack)
- Roof rack side rails
On the interior, drive the Explorer ST comfortably from your leather-trimmed bucket seat behind a leather-wrapped sport steering wheel with paddle shifters.
What Is The Difference Between Ford Explorer Platinum And Limited?
Let’s take a closer look at some key differences and a few similarities between Ford Explorer’s elite trim levels.
Limited vs. Platinum - Powertrain
Explorer Limited can be equipped with either of Ford’s 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 or 3.3L Hybrid V6 engines. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, Limited is a standard, RWD vehicle (optional 4WD).
Explorer Platinum comes standard with Ford’s 3.oL EcoBoost V6 engine, 10-speed automatic transmission, and intelligent 4WD system.
Limited vs. Platinum - Interior Comforts
Inside, the Limited comfortably seats 6 passengers compared to the 7 passenger capacity of the Platinum. Feel luxurious seated in Platinum’s tri-diamond, perforated leather upholstery. Limited, however, boasts the additional comfort of heated front-row seats and second-row captain’s seats.
Limited and Platinum entertainment has been upgraded to include a Bang & Olufsen sound system and voice-activated navigation system.
Accessing your cargo space gets even easier for both the Limited and Platinum trim thanks to standard, third-row PowerFold bench seats.
Limited vs. Platinum - Exterior
You’ll have a vast selection of exterior color options when you upgrade to the Limited or Platinum trim levels including base colors and: Star White Metallic, Silver Spruce, Rapid Red Metallic, Rich Copper Metallic, and Agate Black.
Highlight the Explorer’s exterior features with standard chrome on both trim levels:
- Bodyside cladding
- Grille
- Liftgate appliqué
- Quad exhaust tips (Platinum)
- Dual exhaust tips (Limited)
Platinum’s satin aluminum finish leaves an elegant touch on each chrome feature.
Roof rack side rails equip both trim levels for adventure. Polished aluminum 20” wheels complete the bold look on Limited. Bright machine-faced aluminum 20” or optional 21” wheels give Platinum a brilliant finish.
When you drive or ride in a Ford Explorer, you’ll be ready to venture anywhere safely and comfortably with style.