Redefining the Large SUV, The New Ford Explorer Arrives with 33 Upgrades

Refined Simplicity: A Bold New Design and Exclusive Colours

The New Ford Explorer evolves on its signature design language with a new "less is more" philosophy. Every surface, line and proportion has been refined to create a cleaner, more contemporary appearance while preserving the strength, practicality and commanding presence that define the Explorer.

A larger, more upright grille gives the front end a stronger visual presence with cleaner, more confident proportions. For the first time, the Explorer features an always-on full-width LED daytime running light, the first of its kind in the fuel-powered SUV segment, creating a distinctive lighting signature that further emphasises the vehicle's wide stance.

Leading the lineup, the Explorer Timberline draws inspiration from the Kunlun Mountains. The front fascia features basalt-inspired black accents, a newly designed perforated grille and recurring octagonal design elements that reinforce its distinctive character. Newly integrated front tow hooks retract flush into the body when not in use, providing enhanced recovery capability while maintaining a clean exterior appearance.

Joining the colour palette is "TERRESTRIAL BRONZE" a China-exclusive exterior finish. Its multi-layer paint creates a dynamic effect that shifts between champagne gold and rose gold under changing light. The Timberline is also available in four existing exterior colours, including its signature "Twister Orange", inspired by the golden glow of sunrise over the mountains.

Comfort extends beyond materials alone. Seat cushions have been increased in thickness by 50% and feature a dual-layer construction that combines a softer upper layer with high-density support foam for improved long-distance comfort. New second-row seat ventilation and executive-style sunshades join standard Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and the Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, creating a quieter and more refined experience for every passenger.

Underpinning the Explorer is Ford's CD6 longitudinal rear-wheel-drive architecture, delivering balanced driving dynamics and confident handling. Double-ball-joint aluminum front suspension, an integral multi-link rear suspension and aluminium lower control arms help reduce unsprung mass while improving steering precision and ride control. Combined with a short front overhang and a near 50:50 weight distribution, the platform delivers responsive handling despite the Explorer's full-size dimensions, while a 5.9-metre turning radius further enhances everyday manoeuvrability.

The same engineering philosophy extends to safety. The Explorer features a cage-style body structure with more than 50.8% high-strength steel exceeding 600 MPa, significantly above the segment average. From  A-pillar to C-pillar, a three-layer reinforcement structure incorporates 1,700 MPa cold-quenched martensitic steel alongside 600 MPa and 300 MPa steel, creating a progressive energy-absorbing structure designed to enhance occupant protection. Structural foam is also applied within key areas of the A- and B-pillars to further improve roof-crush performance and side-impact protection. Every aspect of the body structure has been engineered to deliver confidence and peace of mind, whether driving through the city or venturing further afield.

Engineered to Go Further: Capability Without Compromise

Every New Ford Explorer now comes standard with a 540-degree camera system, while the Timberline adds the Ford Off-Road Vision System. Displayed on the 27-inch panoramic screen, the system provides real-time vehicle data including body tilt angle, tyre pressure, four-wheel-drive power distribution, front wheel steering angle, compass heading and GPS coordinates. Combined with the 540-degree surround-view camera system, it gives drivers a clear view of wheel placement and underbody clearance, helping build confidence whether navigating narrow city streets or challenging off-road terrain.

Powering every Explorer is Ford's fourth-generation 2.3-litre EcoBoost® engine, producing 213 kW (289 PS) and 445 Nm of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain delivers smooth low-speed shifts, confident highway performance and responsive acceleration while operating on regular 92 RON fuel. Combined with an 81-litre fuel tank, it is engineered to deliver confident long-distance touring capability with fewer fuel stops.

Beyond its capable powertrain, the Explorer's intelligent four-wheel-drive system works with the Terrain Management System and six selectable drive modes to optimise traction across changing conditions, with millisecond switching between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive. The Timberline further enhances off-road capability with a Torsen® Type B limited-slip rear differential, heavy-duty metal underbody protection, a specially tuned suspension offering up to 223 mm of ground clearance, and factory-fitted all-terrain tyres. It also features dual front tow hooks rated at three tonnes and a class-exclusive factory towing capacity of up to 2.1 tonnes with Trailer Sway Control, making it well suited for towing ATVs, personal watercraft and large travel trailers.