On sale since 1991, the Explorer is the best-selling three-row SUV in the United States. The Explorer is now in its fifth generation and will be completely overhauled for the 2020 model year. Updates for 2019 include new technology and infotainment features; new, standard, active safety functions for the top two trims; new appearance packages; and new paint colors. Ford also sells the Explorer as a fleet vehicle, available as a specially outfitted police or emergency response unit.

Here is a summary of the Ford Explorer’s specifications:

Pricing

• The 2019 Ford Explorer has a starting price of $33,360 including a $995 destination fee.
• The 2019 Ford Explorer Platinum has a starting price of $55,160 including the $995 destination charge.
• The 2018 Explorer had a starting price of $33,135 including a $995 destination charge.

2019 Ford Limited Luxury Edition (Photo: Ford)

Trims

• The 2019 Ford Explorer comes in five trims: Base, XLT, Limited, Sport and Platinum.

Dimensions

• The 2019 Explorer has a wheelbase of 112.8 inches, an overall length of 198.7 inches and a width of 78.9 inches, excluding mirrors.

Powertrain

• The 2019 Explorer comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that has 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque.
• The Explorer is available with two optional engines: a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that has 280 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 that has 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque.
• A six-speed automatic with manual shift mode is standard.
• Front-wheel drive is standard, and four-wheel drive is optional.

Towing

• The Explorer is rated to tow up to 3,000 pounds with a Class II hitch and up to 5,000 pounds with a Class III hitch.

Mileage

• When equipped with front-wheel drive and the standard 3.5-liter V6, the Explorer has EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway and 20 mpg combined. With all-wheel drive, those ratings change to 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway/19 mpg combined.
• With the optional EcoBoost V6, the Explorer has EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 16 mpg in city driving, 22 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg combined.
• When equipped with front-wheel drive and the optional 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, the Explorer has EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg in city driving, 27 mpg on the highway and 22 mpg combined. With all-wheel drive, those ratings change to 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway/21 mpg combined.

Safety

• The Explorer comes standard with a rearview camera, roll stability and curve control, an SOS post-crash alert system and a passive anti-theft system.
• Safety options for the 2019 Explorer include a front 180-degree camera with washer, active park assist, adaptive cruise control with forward-collision warnings, reverse sensors and lane-keep assist.

Infotainment

• The 2019 Explorer comes standard with a Ford SYNC infotainment system that includes a 4.2-inch color LCD screen, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and six speakers.
• A Ford SYNC 3 system with an eight-inch touchscreen, two USB ports and app capability is available.
• Voice- activated navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system, SiriusXM radio, nine-speaker audio and Sony premium audio are available as options.

Comfort & Convenience

• The 2019 Explorer comes standard with an eight-way power driver’s seat, folding second- and third-row seats, four 12-volt power outlets, automatic headlights, LED headlights and power window/door locks.
• Ambient lighting, a foot-activated liftgate, a heated steering wheel, second-row bucket seats, a twin-panel moonroof, rain-sensing windshield wipers and keyless entry/start are available.
• The 2019 Explorer is available with option packages that include trailer tow-prep packages, a Cold Weather Package and a Sport Appearance Package.

Editor’s note: All photos courtesy of Ford.