At a private media gathering in LA, Ford took the wraps off its next generation Explorer, specifically, in new Platinum trim. Seeing demand in the premium SUV market, Ford has delivered a competitor to the Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit and GMC Yukon Denali.

 

Starting with the visual changes for all 2016 Explorers:

– New front fascia, including grille, LED headlights, and foglamps

– Smaller A-pillar for better visibility

– New integrated exhaust

– Sculpted hood

– Redesigned rear spoiler

– Reduced drag thanks to the new design

 

Performance wise, there’s a new available 2.3 liter Ecoboost 4 cylinder from the Mustang with 310hp and 320 lb ft of torque. that can tow up to 3000lbs.

 

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As for new tech:

– Intelligent 4WD system that delivers torque dynamically where needed

– Full digital instrument cluster

– Sony sound system

– 180-degree front and rear camera system

 

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The Platinum Trim checks the boxes for all the above (except the 2.3 liter engine), plus:

– the 3.5 liter Ecoboost V6 from the Explorer Sport (365hp and 420 lb-ft of torque)

– new 20-inch alloy wheels

– satin chrome trim on the grille, fenders, door handles, roof rack, and rear diffuser

– hands-free power lift gate

– the first “brushed aluminum oval” to appear on any Ford (found on the steering wheel)

– Nirvana leather

– real ash wood

– heated steering wheel

– leather-wrapped everything

 

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Ford has yet to release pricing, but expect it to knock on the door of $60k when it goes on sale in the summer of 2015