2020 Ford Explorer vs 2019 Ford Explorer

Every year sees a new version of your favorite vehicle models. Sometimes, the changes are small, while other times, the fresh model feels distinct in every way. That’s the case with the new Ford Explorer, an exemplar of the modern midsize SUV. It has seen a major redesign and is now in its sixth generation.

In this 2020 Ford Explorer vs. 2019 Ford Explorer comparison, we want to point out the changes for all you Hickory, Valdese, and Brookford shoppers! Contact us at Cloninger Ford of Hickory to learn more.

A Retuned Performance for 2020

The 2020 Explorer may look somewhat like the 2019 model, but it has seen plenty of changes under the surface. The 2020 version gets a unibody platform, complete with a longitudinally mounted engine and standard rear-wheel drive. It’s a layout not unlike what you’d find in a luxury SUV. 

By contrast, the 2019 Explorer was a crossover that used a transversely mounted engine. It came with a front-wheel drive system as the standard drivetrain. Both models have made intelligent 4-wheel drive available, if you want extra traction on the trails or slippery roads.

Why the changes? The rear-drive chassis adds more balance to this SUV by distributing weight a bit more evenly. You can drive down winding roads with more confidence than ever before!

Fresh Cabin Technology Features

With the change in generations comes a new suite of technology features! The 2019 Ford Explorer set a strong standard for the 2020 model to follow. Luckily, the new Ford Explorer has risen to the challenge with a retooled infotainment system and a sleek new driver’s dashboard.

The 2020 Ford Explorer makes the SYNC® 3 infotainment system standard for the first time. You’ll enjoy standard smartphone integration as well as an 8-inch touchscreen. A 10.1-inch vertical touchscreen with split-screen views is now available—another first for the model.

For 2020, the Explorer SUV earns an available 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. You can customize the screen to show the information that’s important to you, from your speed to your fuel economy.

Are Those New Engines We Hear?

Like the 2019 Explorer, the new model offers a lineup of three engines. However, most of these engines have seen changes since the previous model year. Let’s look closer at the specs:

2019 Ford Explorer	2020 Ford Explorer
Base Engine
3.5L Ti-VCT V6 290 horsepower / 255 lb-ft of torque	2.3L EcoBoost® 4-Cylinder 300 horsepower / 310 lb-ft of torque
Available Engine
2.3L EcoBoost® 4-Cylinder 280 horsepower / 310 lb-ft of torque	3.0L EcoBoost® V6 Platinum: 365 horsepower / 380 lb-ft of torque ST: 400 horsepower / 415 lb-ft of torque
Available Engine
3.5L EcoBoost® V6 365 horsepower / 350 lb-ft of torque	3.3L Hybrid V6 N/A

As you can see, the two EcoBoost® engines have been retained but retooled to produce more power (far more, in the case of the Explorer ST). The Ti-VCT V6 was discontinued for 2020, but a hybrid powertrain is available for the first time in 2020. You can adventure more efficiently than ever.

The performance-inspired 2020 Ford Explorer ST has 400 horsepower on tap! It’s a new pinnacle for this SUV, and one that means more thrills for you.

Should I Buy the 2020 Ford Explorer or 2019 Ford Explorer?

Hickory, Brookford, and Valdese families are ready for a new midsize SUV. Will the 2020 Ford Explorer or 2019 Ford Explorer serve your needs better?

Both are top-tier vehicles. While the 2020 model has all the latest technology and performance features, the 2019 model offers excellent value as the new year’s models arrive at dealerships. If you like, you can test drive both midsize SUVs here at Cloninger Ford of Hickory. Get behind the wheel yourself!