The all-new 2021 Ford Explorer is about to introduce some serious changes. For the start, a new platform is in the works. That will improve the ride quality and make it feel more satisfying and quieter. Moreover, the interior will also get a lot of improvements. As a result, we can expect better comfort and a more modern cabin. Even the exterior will get refreshments.
However, most of the new stuff is under the shell. Ford will provide numerous mechanical upgrades. Rear-wheel-drive setup is standard now. As for the performance, Explorer will introduce both its ST and Hybrid variants. Now, the customers can opt for better performances or pick a fuel efficiency.
2021 Ford Explorer Architecture
When it comes to visual upgrades, new 2021 Ford Explorer will get a couple of them. New SUV will now look refreshed and more modern. Still, most of the exterior is a carryover. Ford will introduce small visual modifications. Headlights are cleaner now and the front grille is wider. Thanks to its new platform, new Explorer will be larger now.
However, don’t expect any drastic dimensional change. More importantly, the 2021 Explorer will switch from body-on-frame to unibody piece of architecture. That will surely improve the overall ride quality. Whatsoever, the same platform underpins the new Lincoln Aviator model. Moreover, new Ford’s SUV will be around 200 pounds lighter.
Slightly More Space Inside
Interior will get more updates and changes. The forthcoming 2021 Ford Explorer will introduce a modified cabin layout. Logical move after the significant switch to a unibody platform. The interior is now more practical and it will offer slightly more space. Blue Oval installed new side sills. However, sills are strangely wide, something we’ve never seen before.
As for the comfort, new Explorer will be better now. The seating position feels more naturally now and visibility is better as well. Everything from the inside now looks modern and upscale. Thanks to latest dimensional changes, Explorer comes with better legroom. On top of that, the cargo area is improved as well. The interior is tech-rich and Ford offers a long list of standard features. Even the base model now comes with great tech.
2021 Ford Explorer Powertrain Details
From the next year, Explorer will offer more powertrain options. The customers can now choose between a conventional gasoline option, more powerful engine in ST or more fuel-efficient in Hybrid variant. The 2021 Ford Explorer still offers a standard 2.3-liter four-cylinder. Thanks to a turbocharger, the engine is producing 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque.
Thanks to latest weight loss, Explorer will now offer better fuel economy. Speaking of that, 2021 Explorer Hybrid will also arrive. A hybrid variant will deliver around or over 300 hp. More importantly, you can expect great fuel economy rating.
As for the Explorer ST, it is another confirmed model. The high-performance version should return around 400 horses with a standard AWD system. The base model will now deploy the RWD setup. No matter which option you choose, a 6-speed automatic gearbox is offered as standard.
Price and Release Date
The price of the Blue Oval’s newest SUV will be higher now. We can expect for the 2021 Ford Explorer to start at $35,500. The range-topping Platinum trim level is priced at $55,000. A hybrid variant will cost around $42,000 and Explorer ST around $50,000. The new model will hit the dealerships in the late 2020s.