At a private media gathering in LA, Ford took the wraps off its next generation Explorer, specifically, in new Platinum trim. Seeing demand in the premium SUV market, Ford has delivered a competitor to the Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit and GMC Yukon Denali.
Starting with the visual changes for all 2016 Explorers:
– New front fascia, including grille, LED headlights, and foglamps
– Smaller A-pillar for better visibility
– New integrated exhaust
– Sculpted hood
– Redesigned rear spoiler
– Reduced drag thanks to the new design
Performance wise, there’s a new available 2.3 liter Ecoboost 4 cylinder from the Mustang with 310hp and 320 lb ft of torque. that can tow up to 3000lbs.
As for new tech:
– Intelligent 4WD system that delivers torque dynamically where needed
– Full digital instrument cluster
– Sony sound system
– 180-degree front and rear camera system
The Platinum Trim checks the boxes for all the above (except the 2.3 liter engine), plus:
– the 3.5 liter Ecoboost V6 from the Explorer Sport (365hp and 420 lb-ft of torque)
– new 20-inch alloy wheels
– satin chrome trim on the grille, fenders, door handles, roof rack, and rear diffuser
– hands-free power lift gate
– the first “brushed aluminum oval” to appear on any Ford (found on the steering wheel)
– Nirvana leather
– real ash wood
– heated steering wheel
– leather-wrapped everything
Ford has yet to release pricing, but expect it to knock on the door of $60k when it goes on sale in the summer of 2015