It may not look markedly different from the outgoing model, but the Explorer has been completely redesigned for 2020. We enjoy its agile handling and spacious, quiet cabin, but the clunky transmission, noisy engine, and stiff-edged ride leave it with a middling rank among three-row midsized SUVs. Further, some comparably equipped rivals, such as the Hyundai Palisade and Subaru Ascent, cost about $6,000 less.
The Explorer's new rear-drive-based platform (most competitors are front-drive-based) contributes to its newfound handling chops and improved tow rating—5,300 pounds on our test vehicle. Our all-wheel-drive Explorer proved adept through corners, with responsive steering and firm suspension that gave drivers confidence. Ride quality is less compliant than many rivals, though, and it transmits frequent jiggles into the cabin.
The 300-horsepower turbocharged engine has plenty of oomph to get the Explorer up to speed quickly, yet, at 21 mpg overall, this four-cylinder doesn't have a fuel economy advantage over some of its smoother V6 competitors. Low-speed shifts from the 10-speed automatic transmission are noticeably rough, and the engine sounds raspy when accelerating—both missteps that make the Explorer seem unrefined.
Most people will be able to find a comfortable driving position easily, thanks to plenty of headroom, a wide range of seat adjustments, a large left footrest, and well-padded armrests. The controls are simple to use, and the infotainment system is intuitive and responds quickly. Fit and finish is on the cheap side for the class, with too many hard-plastic panels. The cabin stays hushed even at highway speeds, although the turbo four-cylinder engine gets raspy when accelerating.
The second-row seats have plenty of room all around. They flip up easily with the pull of a lever to gain access to the third row, but this still leaves a narrow path that requires lots of ducking and twisting. The third-row seat has less room than before, is positioned low to the floor, and is tight on knee space—it's best-suited for small kids.
The Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced safety systems is standard, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assistance. Ford has made it easy for owners to find the settings for these features, and the company has even included animations on the center display screen to help explain what each system does. However, that the standard safety suite does not include adaptive cruise control, which is a separate option.