2020 Ford Explorer Trim Options
So, you’ve settled on the 2020 Ford Explorer as the SUV for you. You spent your time looking at all of the midsize sport utility vehicles, figuring out which was best for you. You can probably picture it in your driveway right now while you gaze outside with your favorite hot beverage in hand. But, wait. What about trim level, packages, and options? Which one is best for you? Well, hold onto your coffee mug. This is just the guide for you. Here we explore all that the Explorer has to offer, so you can be confident with your decision when you step onto the dealer lot.
The 2020 Ford Explorer comes in four different trim levels: XLT, Limited, ST, and Platinum. On top of that, there’s a hybrid model available that may appeal to you if you’re going green or want to cut down on fuel costs. Let’s cover each of these options in turn.
The base trim level starts at just $36,675 this year. This trim level and the next one comes with a 300-horsepower four-cylinder engine. The Explorer XLT offers standard tech features like the intuitive and responsive SYNC 3 infotainment system with 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, four USB ports (two front, two rear), satellite radio, and Wi-Fi hotspot.
The cabin of the XLT boasts second-row captain's chairs with power-assist fold, 50/50 split third-row bench seat, tri-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, remote start, and power liftgate. And when it comes to standard safety features, you get the Ford MyKey safe driving system, rear parking sensors, and Co-Pilot360. As you can see, there’s plenty to keep you safe and happy on even the base model.
The Limited, starting at $48,130, is a big step in the direction of luxury. Slather the interior with leather seating, even while you add ventilated front seats, 10-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, heated second-row seats, power-folding third-row seats, and heated steering wheel. Swap out the XLT’s audio system for a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen system, household-style power outlet, and wireless device charging. In terms of safety, you add 360-degree parking camera, front parking sensors, rain-sensitive windshield wipers, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, lane centering, speed sign recognition, evasive steering assist, and voice-activated navigation. Finally, you also get a hands-free liftgate and power-folding mirrors are also included in this trim.
If luxury doesn’t appeal to you, perhaps a sport-oriented trim would be more to your liking. If you have mountains to climb, the Explorer ST can help. For $54,740, you get black exterior styling elements, sport-tuned suspension, four-wheel drive, tow package, sport seats, perforated leather upholstery, reverse brake assist, and active park assist for parallel and perpendicular parking. This and the Platinum trim come standard with the better 3-liter V6 engine that produces 400 and 365 horsepower.
At the top, there’s the Explorer Platinum starting at $58,250. The Platinum comes with just about everything the Limited offers, plus tri-diamond perforated leather seats, leather-wrapped interior, twin-panel moonroof, adaptive headlights, reverse brake assist, and active park assist. The Platinum comes standard with four-wheel drive, the tow package, and front and rear skid plates.
The main thing to know about the Explorer Hybrid is that it’s got a range of 500 miles and gets an estimated 27 city miles and 29 highway miles per gallon. That’s an average of 4 combined mpg better than the best gas-only Explorer, meaning you save hundreds of dollars in fuel costs annually.