The 2020 Ford Explorer ST is highly regarded for its potent 400-hp twin-turbo V6 engine, engaging handling due to its sport-tuned suspension and rear-wheel-drive based platform, and a comprehensive suite of advanced technology and safety features. It successfully combines the practicality of a three-row family SUV with exciting performance.
Performance and Handling
Powerful Engine: The core attribute is the specially tuned 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 engine, which produces an impressive 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. This provides shocking acceleration for an SUV of its size, with a 0-60 mph time of around 5.5 seconds.
Sport-Tuned Dynamics: The shift to a rear-wheel-drive architecture (with standard all-wheel drive) and unique, stiffer sport-tuned suspension gives the SUV athletic handling and reduced body roll in corners. Reviewers note it handles more like a performance vehicle than a typical family hauler.
Responsive Transmission: The 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission is quick-shifting and responsive, especially in Sport mode, which enhances the overall driving experience.
Towing Capability: Despite its performance focus, it maintains excellent utility with a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped with the available Class III Trailer Tow Package.
Technology and Interior
Advanced Infotainment: It offers a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an available 10.1-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen running Ford's Sync 3 system, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Premium Comfort: The interior features comfortable, supportive leather sport bucket seats with the ST logo and accent stitching. Other available features include heated and ventilated (cooled) front seats, heated second-row captain's chairs, and even multi-contour front seats with massage functionality.
Driver-Assist Technologies: The Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features comes standard, including blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trims and packages add the Co-Pilot360 Assist+ suite with adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane centering, and the highly praised Active Park Assist 2.0 system that can steer, accelerate, and brake itself into parking spots.
4WD, 10.1 LCD Capacitive Portrait Touchscreen, 2 Additional Speakers, 20 Machined Aluminum w/Painted Pockets Wheels, Auto High-beam Headlights, Exterior Parking Camera Rear, Heated front seats, Heated rear seats, Leather Htd/Ventilated Sport Captain's Chairs, Memory seat, Navigation System, Power Liftgate, Power passenger seat, Premium Technology Package, Rain sensing wipers, Twin Panel Moonroof.
Clean CARFAX.
Awards:
* 2020 KBB.com 10 Best SUVs Worth Waiting For * 2020 KBB.com 10 Favorite New-for-2020 Cars