2019 Ford Explorer NH
Introduced to the automotive world as a body-on-frame SUV, the Explorer has evolved. Still a crowd-pleaser, the Explorer has been the number one selling SUV for 27 years and it looks as though the trend is about to continue.
Enter the 2019 Ford Explorer - a three-row crossover and segment favorite among experts and consumers, alike. Celebrated for its quiet interior, comfortable ride quality, and significant space for cargo and passengers, this year’s Explorer is versatile, thanks to its trio of engine options. Depending on personal preference and budget, Ford has made it possible to keep the Explorer simple or pull out all the stops for ultimate luxury.
In a recent model year, Ford introduced the XLT Sport Appearance package, along with the latest iteration of the brand’s Sync 3 infotainment system, in exchange for the previous My Ford Touch system.
When it comes to Ford’s motto, “Go Further,” the 2019 Explorer affords consumers a class-leading experience.
A Top Performing SUV
Engine Options
Versatility is key in the 2019 Ford Explorer, which offers consumers three compelling engine offerings. The first, a 3.5-liter V6 generates 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque.
An available 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine is designed to conserve fuel, while producing 280 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Fuel efficiency efforts come from the engine’s twin-scroll low-inertia turbocharger which separates exhaust pulses from the engine’s cylinders, which speeds turbine spin-up, and increases acceleration responsiveness.
A turbocharged variant of the 3.5-liter V6 is capable of 365 horsepower, with a torque rating of 360 lb-ft.
Engine options are trim level dependent, though all are operated by a six-speed automatic transmission, and this year’s Explorer has five options: base, XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum.
The Sport and Platinum are available exclusively as AWD models; while the Base, XLT, and Limited come as either AWD or FWD.
Acceleration and Braking
Performance testing by Edmunds saw the 2019 Explorer EcoBoost model, equipped with the V6 engine manage a head-turning zero to sixty mph time of 6.3 seconds - impressive for the segment.
Making a full stop from sixty mph was also excellent, with the EcoBoost managing it in a short 108 feet, thanks in part to the optional summer tires.
Towing Capacity
The first three trim levels - Base, XLT, and Limited offer towing capacities that max out at 2,000 pounds. For maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, the Sport and Platinum deliver.
Fuel Efficiency
Similar to towing capacity, fuel efficiency jumps between the first three and final two trim levels. Base, XLT, and Limited models return an EPA-estimated 19 city mpg and 27 highway mpg. The Sport and Platinum, owing to their added towing capacities, see a drop in fuel efficiency numbers, EPA-estimated at 16 city mpg and 22 highway mpg.
Handling
Thanks to the Explorer’s fine tuned electric steering system, maneuvering is smooth and easy. Rounding corners and handling curves is seamless, with a responsive feel behind the wheel.
Plenty of Trim Variations
Base - Starting MSRP $31,660
As the entrant of the Explorer lineup, the Base comes equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine capable of 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. Features include cruise control, rearview camera, rear climate controls, 50/50-split third-row seating, 60/40-split second-row, eight-way power seat for the driver, which reclines manually, all atop 18-inch wheels. A 4.2-inch touchscreen display provides access to the voice-activated Sync 3 infotainment capabilities, supported by a six-speaker sound system, and Bluetooth technology.
XLT - Starting MSRP $33,775
A single step up to the XLT provides additional standard features as well as considerable options that consumers cannot access in the Base model. For instance, the turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 280 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, provides extra fuel-efficiency.
Note: Actual fuel-efficiency enhancement is impacted by individual driving style. Driving habits might not yield significant savings, in which case, reviewers tend to opt for the V6.
Limited - Starting MSRP $41,675
Equipped with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine, although the V6 is available, the Limited ups the ante with respect to overall comfort and convenience. Extra creature comforts are provided by features like heated and ventilated seats for driver and passenger, dual-zone automatic climate control, 8-inch touchscreen display with Sync 3 capabilities, power-folding third-row seats, power-adjustable pedals, power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, leather interior, and a nine-speaker sound system.
Sport - Starting MSRP $45,355
To really experience an increase in ride quality, check out the Sport trim. Expect the majority of the bells and whistles offered by the Limited, in addition to the added muscle of the turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, backed by 365 horses and 360 lb-ft of torque. The sport-oriented suspension tuning makes this Explorer extra fun to drive.
An AWD model, the Sport also offers a four-tiered Terrain Management System, allowing drivers to choose between Normal, Mud/Ruts, Sand, and Grass/Gravel/Snow. However, despite its Sport designation and AWD, drivers shouldn’t assume this model is capable of conquering the off-road. The Terrain Management was designed to optimize on-pavement driving.
Summer tires are optional, but the Sport variant offers electronic sway control and a Class III trailer tow package as standard equipment.
Platinum - Starting MSRP $53,235
Taking it to the top, the Platinum is powered exclusively by the turbocharged V6; however, it drops the sport-oriented suspension and steering tuning seen in the Sport variant. Extra features afforded by the Platinum model include adaptive cruise control, heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats in the front, and a 12-speaker Sony sound system. Options include power-folding captain’s chairs for the second row and an entertainment system for backseat passengers.
Luxury Level Interior with Great Safety Features
Regardless of trim level, all 2019 Ford Explorers feature high-quality materials, roomy seats, and a spacious cabin. Cargo space is slightly less than class competitors, measuring only 81.7 cubic feet; however, the depth of the cargo well is impressive and the entire vehicle is loaded with storage spaces, bins, and anti-tip cupholders.
Despite its size and capabilities, the Ford Explorer delivers a quiet ride for drivers and passengers alike.
The Explorer earned impressive safety ratings from the industry overall. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Explorer five stars, while the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Explorer its top designation of “Good,” and U.S. News & World Report rated it a 9.2/10.
These results are due, in part, to the 2019 Explorer’s wealth of active and passive safety features. Inclusions like Collision Warning with Brake Support, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Information System are trusted, yet cutting-edge technologies, providing optimal safety and security to the Explorer’s occupants.
Collision Warning with Brake Support is ingenious in that it signals the driver of a potential forward collision and acts by pre-charging the brakes to decrease the stopping distance required to avoid any impact. The Lane Keeping System vibrates the steering wheel and minimizes the effort needed to return the vehicle to its proper lane. While the Blind Spot Information System illuminates the side mirrors to alert the driver of vehicles in the surrounding lanes, so that a lateral move isn’t mistakenly made.
Get to Know the 2019 Explorer in NH at Irwin Ford
The Explorer offers performance, capabilities, and the third-row families need from a modern vehicle. With models ranging from economy to performance to luxurious, there's a 2019 Explorer model for any and all types of budgets for full-size SUV buyers. Find one that fits your life at Irwin's Ford dealership in New Hampshire.
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