2027 Ford Explorer Review, Dimensions, Configurations
2027 Ford Explorer Review, Dimensions, Configurations – The 2027 Explorer was Ford’s third model year, following the Mach-E Mustang and the Capri. Compared to the other two cars that have names from Ford’s past, the Explorer is less likely to infuriate Ford fans. The new electric car is really a more sophisticated version of an older design, but the US SUV was the talk of the town when it made its premiere at Jurassic Park. Even worse, there is no record of the name Explorer in British history.
Ford’s entry into the electric car market was accelerated by the Volkswagen Group using the MEB platform, which serves as the foundation for the Explorer. We prefer the Explorer over the Volkswagen ID.4 and ID.5 when it comes to MEB-based automobiles. Ford’s 2027 Explorer electric small SUV succeeds in spite of fierce competition. It seems practical because to its squared-off edges, limited window layout, and smooth front and back ends.
Select and Premium are the only two trim levels that are currently offered, and they are quite comparable to one another. The Standard Range, Extended Range, and four-wheel-drive models come in packs of 52 kWh, 77 kWh, and 79 kWh, respectively. 2027 Ford Explorer Review
2027 Ford Explorer Redesign and Update Plan
Exterior & Interior
Although Ford gave the Explorer its own unique flair, it nonetheless closely references Volkswagen. Keyless entry, touch-screen light settings, and a dashboard with driving options are among the features. It is not immediately clear if the Explorer shared drivetrain and technology components with any Volkswagen vehicles due to design constraints.
Given that Ford had to work under these constraints, this is reasonable. The architecture of the interior, which has a spacious central tunnel that divides the front seats, is mostly to blame for this, in contrast to the VW ID.4’s more open front seats. Additionally, Ford offers a unique 14.6-inch portrait touchscreen.
Although the display is upright, the sliding mechanism exposes edges that detract from the center console’s aesthetic appeal, making it an example of a badly designed cabin element. Nevertheless, the interior is well-made and equipped with a lot of premium materials.
Given how many features the Explorer has, it should not be surprising that most of its controls are located on the portrait screen. The temperature controls are more difficult to use and more sensitive than the traditional buttons, even though they only occupy only 5% of the Ford’s massive 14.6-inch touchscreen. Even while you’re on the run, you can easily see the large buttons that access the many submenus since the screen is large enough to fit them.
The Volkswagen-looted volume slider only works when pressed. A wheel-mounted volume control is also an option, however its responsiveness can differ. The lengthy strip of dashboard trim is really a sound bar, which theoretically has a function similar to that of a home theater system. Excellent sound is produced by a Bang & Olufsen setup, although the unbranded system that comes with some models is sufficient.
With the fast and responsive Ford SYNC Move software, voice control is an option if you choose not to utilize the screen. You may utilize the row of buttons at the top of the screen to rapidly access things that you use regularly. You may easily access the main menu by using the Home button shown below.
The Explorer’s sharp front face and well-balanced rear end were designed by the Ford design team to ensure it stood out. According to the specifications, this new vehicle takes a cue from the classic SUV playbook and has broad shoulders and a squared-off design. Although the trunk might use some work, the Explorer’s broad wheelbase and wide track contribute to its roomy cabin.
Even though the windows are modest, clever technology that optimizes light penetration from all directions gives the impression that the area is larger. It appears as though one can stare straight through the exterior C-pillars from within the cabin because of its mirror-finished etched pattern. 2027 Ford Explorer Review
2027 Ford Explorer Specs
Engine & Performance
Because the 2027 Ford Explorer is based on Volkswagen’s MEB electric vehicle platform, it may be equipped with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The smallest and lightest 52 kWh battery can provide 168 horsepower and 310 Nm of torque, according to Ford advertising. With the four-wheel-drive option, you can expect 335 horsepower and 679 nm of torque, while with the 79 kWh pack, you can get 282 horsepower and 545 nm of torque.
Every interior element of the Explorer is supplied from Volkswagen, with the exception of the drive selector. when mode D remains unchanged, mode B provides more potent energy recovery to aid in battery recharging when braking; both modes share a bulky column shifter on the right side of the steering wheel, similar to those found in previous MEB models. Although you can’t configure it to operate on a single pedal, B mode lets you regulate the throttle such that you won’t need to use the brakes until absolutely necessary.
Ford made a concerted effort to set the Explorer apart from competing electric SUVs while utilizing drivetrain parts that it had purchased from Volkswagen. The Explorer is presently the most fun vehicle to drive on the MEB platform because of its ability to overcome hardship.
The 2027 Ford Explorer 52 kWh has a peak speed of 99 mph and a sprint time of 8.7 seconds from 0 to 62 mph. It has the same rear-wheel drive as the 77 kWh model. However, it only takes 6.4 seconds to travel from 0 to 62 mph thanks to the additional power. Most folks won’t care that it’s not the quickest electric SUV available.
Despite having a larger battery, the four-wheel-drive version can accelerate from zero to sixty-two miles per hour in 5.3 seconds because of its improved grip and torque. The electrical limit for all big-battery models is 112 miles per hour.
2027 Ford Explorer Fuel Economy
Despite its boxy appearance, the Explorer’s external design is really rather effective when compared to its competitors. We were able to get an average efficiency of 3.7 miles per kWh even when driving a premium-trimmed Explorer at highway speeds. With a range of 277 miles, the 77 kWh model is more than enough for most drivers. Ford claims that the basic Select variant of the 77 kWh Explorer can go up to 374 miles between charges.
Your range is increased by 329 miles with the 79 kWh model, which has higher power and four-wheel drive, and by 20 miles with the Premium option. The 52 kWh Select model can go up to 176 miles on a single charge, while the Premium variant can go up to 169 miles.
Although a heat pump is a great accessory, we find the high cost to be a major concern. We may expect Ford to do the same as other competitors provide it for less money and even come with one as standard equipment. This essential part, which helps prolong battery life during the colder winter months, will cost about £1000 to install.
Maximum DC charging rates for specific battery types are provided by manufacturers. The 52 kWh battery can be charged at a maximum rate of 145 kW, which is greater than the 77 kWh battery’s reduced rate of 135 kW.
These days, neither restriction is very noteworthy because a 28-minute charging time and a 10-80% charge period are rather normal. Although the 77 kWh battery still has a slightly longer 26-minute 10-80% charge time, the 79 kWh pack can attain the highest top-up rate of 185 kW. 2027 Ford Explorer Review
2027 Ford Explorer Safety Features
The car’s five-star rating from Euro NCAP gives you peace of mind. You may disable some electronic driving aids by heading to the main screen and choosing the relevant submenu. The shortcut in the upper right corner can be used to rapidly reach the main driver-assistance menu. This process is required to start the automobile, despite the fact that it involves more than merely pressing a button.
The Explorer’s network of electronic sensors allows it to instantly respond to impending danger by changing its location and speed with the aid of its lane assist and forward-traffic detection systems. Even the required speed-limit warning system is more tolerable because of Ford’s little beep. There is a menu on the main touchscreen that allows you to disable these systems, so you are not compelled to use them unless you so choose.
Numerous safety technologies, including as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, entry warning, cross-traffic alert, and sign recognition, are standard on both models. The sole available model costs nearly £2,000 in total, but because it already has a motorized tailgate, the driver aid package is £500 less expensive than the more expensive Premium model. This bundle includes actuated park assist, lane change assist, lane centering, and a head-up display.
We should have fixed any problems with ID.4 now that it has been available for some time. According to the 2024 Driver Power customer satisfaction survey, Ford was placed 30th out of 32 manufacturers in the area of top brands. Something is obviously working for Ford because this was only one point worse than Volkswagen’s 29th-place finish.
2027 Ford Explorer Release Date & Price
For little under £40,000, you can get the base 2027 Ford Explorer model. The 52 kWh battery in this Standard Range vehicle with Select trim is what gives it its 233-mile range. You can upgrade to the 52 kWh battery, which has a slightly shorter 221-mile range, for an additional £4,000.
The standard Select trim has a range of 374 miles with the 77 kilowatt-hour extended-range model, which costs almost £6,000 extra. It’s difficult to top with its 354-mile range, £4,000 higher price tag, larger wheels, and heavier added equipment.
The most expensive variant, with all-wheel drive, costs more than £54,000. Its two-motor setup and 79 kWh battery give it an official range of 329 miles. Even in the base Select model, the Explorer is the most expensive small electric SUV in its class due to its abundance of included amenities.
Front and rear bumper lights, heated seats, a driver’s seat with motorized adjustment, a mobile 14.6-inch portrait touchscreen, and 19-inch alloy wheels are all standard.
While we are certain that the basic model will meet or surpass our expectations, the Premium trim level adds a panoramic glass roof, a B&O sound system, larger 20-inch wheels, matrix-LED headlights, and a hands-free motorized tailgate. This trim level comes with an extra price tag.
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.
