The 2019 Ford Explorer is getting old
The fifth-generation Ford Explorer has been around since the 2011 model year and as a result, is becoming a weaker contender in the midsize SUV segment.
The Southern California native briefly lived in Sydney, and is proud to have developed a barely passable Aussie accent. He also serves on the board of directors of the Motor Press Guild. When not reviewing cars or nerding out on OEM premium audio, you can find manual-labor-averse Manuel doing his best to convince his closest friends to fix the very Porsche that delivered him home.
The current Ford Explorer has been around since 2011 and hasn't had a major update since 2016. Despite newer competition, it remains America's bestselling three-row SUV.
Base prices for the Explorer range between $32,365 and $54,165 plus $995 for destination.
Ford gives you three choices when it comes to engines. Base models feature a 3.5-liter V6. A turbocharged, 2.3-liter Ecoboost four-cylinder is the next step up, while the nicest versions come with a twin-turbo, 3.5-liter Ecoboost V6 with 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque.
Regardless of engine choice, all Explorers use a six-speed automatic transmission that routes power through either the front or all four wheels.
The most fuel-efficient Explorers -- with four cylinders and front-wheel drive -- offer just average fuel economy for the midsize SUV segment at 19/27 mpg.
Higher trim levels feature an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the base Explorer is stingy and comes standard with none of that.
Cargo capacity falls upon the lower end of the segment. At 81.7 cubic feet, the Explorer's max cargo volume is eclipsed by the Chevrolet Traverse at 98.2 cubic feet, while the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander offer 83.9 and 83.7 cubic feet.
With its optional Class III towing package, the Ford Explorer can trailer up to 5,000 pounds. The Toyota Highlander can pull the same amount, but the Nissan Pathfinder is rated for 6,000 pounds.
The base Explorer offers no driver-assistance systems as standard, whereas competition from Toyota and Honda come with standard adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, collision-mitigation braking and automatic high beams.
Click or scroll further for more photos of the 2019 Ford Explorer.
2019 Ford Explorer Limited Luxury Edition
2019 Ford Explorer full instrument panel
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