2027 Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid Redesign, Specs, Dimensions
2027 Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid Redesign, Specs, Dimensions – Ford has taken the 2027 Explorer Plug‑In Hybrid beyond a simple powertrain upgrade, delivering a full redesign that balances efficiency, capability, and driver appeal. The Explorer sits on a refreshed CD6 platform reinforced with high-strength steel in key load zones. Engineers revised suspension mounting points and body structure to accommodate the added weight of the battery pack without sacrificing ride quality. Additional dampening and upgraded bushings keep the Explorer feeling precise and composed whether commuting or loaded with gear. 2027 Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid Redesign
2027 Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid Redesign and Update Plan
Exterior & Interior
The exterior design pushes family SUV expectations. The front fascia reveals a grille flap that opens dynamically for cooling or closes to improve aerodynamics, while jewel-like LED headlights and DOT-compliant DRLs give a modern persona. It rides on available 21-inch split-spoke wheels with low rolling resistance tires tailored to the PHEV. Rear-end details include a subtle diffuser-like underbody panel, integrated dual exhaust tips mirroring its hybrid capabilities, and exclusive PHEV badging.
Step inside, and the Explorer Plug‑In Hybrid’s cabin blends rugged personality with premium comfort. Soft-touch surfaces extend across the dash, door panels, and console—with optional contrast stitching and genuine open-pore wood or aluminum accents. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster communicates EV range, charge status, regenerative levels, and system alerts. Below the central infotainment screen is a neatly integrated rotary shifter and a capacitive drive-mode selector, adding a minimalist but intuitive interface.
Comfort doesn’t take a back seat. Seating upgrades include ventilated front seats with eight-way power and massage mode, three-zone climate control with dedicated rear venting, and available heated second-row captain’s chairs. Rear passengers benefit from 40/20/40 seating, rear USB-C ports, and a rear-seat entertainment system option. Storage gets thoughtful touches—stowable cup holders, underfloor bins, and a hidden wireless charging pad under the center armrest. This isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a well-thought-out mobile family suite.
Stylists updated the Explorer’s exterior with sleeker, more aerodynamic lines—refined sheetmetal reduces drag while maintaining a rugged look. Functional vents flank each front wheel to optimize airflow, and the roofline is subtly reshaped to improve rear visibility. Ford also recessed the charging port behind the front left wheel, preserving side-step access while giving the PHEV a clean, integrated appearance. The result is a bold SUV that looks ready for adventure and intelligent enough for daily life.
Behind the scenes, Ford’s engineers have gone deep into over-the-air (OTA) updates and connected vehicle features. The integrated SYNC 4A system receives regular performance, charging, and diagnostics updates without customer effort. Sensors surrounding the Explorer assist in fine-tuning suspension, thermal management, and efficiency parameters over time. With its redesigned chassis and smart software, the Explorer PHEV is not just upgraded—it evolves with every mile.
2027 Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid Specs
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Explorer Plug‑In Hybrid lies a smart 3.3‑liter V6 engine paired with a powerful electric motor mounted at the rear axle. The combined system generates 318 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque—enough to confidently tow up to 5,600 pounds. The V6 acts as a range extender once the 18.2-kWh battery is depleted, turning the PHEV into a hybrid that seamlessly maintains EV character in mixed conditions.
The battery enables an expected 38 miles of pure electric range, covering most commutes without using gas. EV mode is smooth and quiet, featuring a near-instantaneous torque delivery. Charging at home with Ford’s 240V onboard charger fills the battery in under three hours, and a 150-kW DC fast charge option tops up to 80% in about 25 minutes. A selectable EV Hold mode allows drivers to save battery for later in urban zones, ensuring flexibility for varying usage patterns.
Handling improvements come from adaptive MagneRide dampers and an intelligent all-wheel-drive system that uses torque-vectoring via a rear electric drive unit. Steering is electric and weighted appropriately for each drive mode. Whether off-pavement or urban commuting, the Explorer feels connected and responsive. Four drive modes—Normal, Sport, Trail, and Pure EV—alter throttle response, regenerative braking, and suspension firmness, giving drivers a tailored, engaging experience. 2027 Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid Redesign
2027 Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid Fuel Economy
Ford estimates the 2027 Explorer Plug‑In Hybrid achieves a combined fuel efficiency equivalent of 72 MPGe in hybrid mode and 33 mpg in combined fuel usage once the battery is depleted—a remarkable efficiency improvement in its segment. With its 38-mile EV range, most everyday usage can be silent, emission-free, and cheap. Charging at home costs under $1 per full battery, significantly lowering ownership costs for commuters.
2027 Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid Safety Features
Ford has equipped the 2027 Explorer Plug‑In Hybrid with a robust safety suite. Standard systems include Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, automated Emergency Braking, blind-spot monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go. Ford’s Evasive Steering Assist helps drivers avoid sudden obstacles while reacting with composure and confidence.
The PHEV adds parking convenience with a standard 360-degree camera, Front and Rear Park Assist, and a semi-autonomous Active Park feature capable of handling parallel and perpendicular stalls. A new Driver Monitoring System uses an infrared camera to detect fatigue or distraction, providing warnings and reducing system permission if the driver is inattentive. Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite is now more comprehensive, ensuring advanced protection across scenarios.
The structural safety enhancements remain solid. Ford includes a fortified safety cage with reinforced B-pillars, advanced multi-stage front airbags, side curtain airbags across all three rows, and knee airbags for the front crew. New crash sensors linked to the onboard modem alert emergency services automatically upon impact. The result is not just an efficient SUV—it’s a vehicle with built-in, holistic protection at every level.
2027 Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid Release Date & Price
Pricing begins at $54,800 for the XLT Plug-In Hybrid, with Lariat Premium at $59,400, Timberline at $62,200, and the luxurious Platinum at $65,700. Ford offers federal tax incentives up to $7,500 in qualifying regions, plus various state rebates—making the PHEV a smart economic choice. Leasing deals include competitive zero-down options and incentive structures targeting environmentally conscious buyers.
Production begins in early Q3 2026, with dealer arrivals anticipated by October 2026. Reservations open in June 2026, allowing customers to select build dates and trim specifications early. Ford’s manufacturing in Chicago ensures solid supply and U.S.-based assembly. With strong interest expected, early reservation access and potential loyalty credits make this a compelling launch.
Conclusion
The 2027 Ford Explorer Plug‑In Hybrid redefines what a capable SUV should be—blending zero-emission commuting, rugged versatility, and modern safety into a package built for families. Redesigned chassis, bold styling, responsive AWD, and smart features make this Explorer an intelligent leap forward. It’s a powerful, efficient, and thoroughly usable SUV ready to accommodate both daily routines and adventurous road trips. It’s not just the next Explorer—it’s the future of mainstream electrified SUVs. 2027 Ford Explorer Plug-In Hybrid Redesign
Note: Much of the information in this blog post is based on materials that were available before the product was even released. Call your local dealership or consult official sources if you want up-to-date information.
