2020 Ford Explorer 2.3L Review | Base Engine Perfection
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 9 ก.ย. 2024
- Ford's base engine in the 2020 Explorer is something of a surprise. With 300 horsepower and the only 10-speed automatic in the segment, the 2.3L Ecoboost Explorer is seriously quick. With solid 0-60 times, a new rear wheel drive chassis and some of the widest tires you'll find on a modern crossover, this is the first time the Explorer can be described as a corner carver. But Ford didn't stop there, there's also a towing capable hybrid model, a fire-breathing ST model and in Europe a plug in hybrid as well. If you've ignored the Explorer in the past, it's time to put it back on your shopping list.
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Love the new Explorer. Gorgeous design, a powerful and efficient 4 cylinder turbo, and enough power to actually enjoy the ride. Great review Alex.
Watch Savagegeese review to see all the faults on this Explorer. Interior looks cheap, too much plastic, very poor fit and finish and infotainment looks like an afterthought how it's slapped on the dash. Big issues with transmission in this Explorer which is unfortunate as the 10 speed in other Ford's has been good.
James the XLT doesn’t have the big ugly screen, cheap plastic? Humm it’s a ford, made in USA, what do u expect? BMW?
James If you don’t like it, don’t buy one.
I had a martini w alex tonight. He wanted to make sure I told you that he thanks you for ur comment
@@larrywilson7933 there’s always that one guy. Always have something to say when he’s not gonna buy it
I’ve been a big fan of the Explorer since 2002. Just bought a 17’ with the 2.3L eco engine. Love the car. Much better than any Jeep I’ve driven. By far. Comfortable, reliable and pretty damn quick when you need it. Styling wise it’s near the top too. I’m hooked.
Reading about it I thought this exploder was going to be a swing and a miss but this review really changed my mind. 6.4 to 60 in a turbo 4!? That’s impressive
Alex...far and away you do the best reviews. You cover all the bases and deliver them without bias. Thanks
Astonishingly good. I'm really surprised, especially getting 300 BHP out of only 2.3l and good economy too.
Karl P i mean, its been on the 2.3 Ecoboost mustang since 2015.....
300hp put of 2.3L = short life span pushing that engine with that turbo.
@@James-il3tq in theory sure, however the main reason this is not the case is due to how the torque management work in these engines. The boost turbo 90% isn’t even being used , the turbo spend the majority of its lifespan in vacuum sequence; which would live at the same if not close to the life of the engine.
The 2.3 engine, despite the 4 cylinder still has large components for a small engine and can outlast or be on the same life trend of any non turbo engines.
Additionally these engines are just overall extremely efficient from torque management to oil changes and components wear and tear.
Ford wants this engine to be an iconic engineering for the last era of gasoline engines, and they are doing hell of a job on keeping that goal
Think about it. Squeezing that much hp means lots of pressure on the engine. A normal 2 3L non-turbo produces around 200hp max. The turbo has to work its ass off to make that extra 100hp.
@@rkgsd There's no secret how to make engines hold up to high pressures. Note too that these 2.3 turbo Explorers are turning less RPMs at highway speeds than the old normally aspirated 3.5 six used in the previous generation Explorer.
Great video. Kudos to Ford for returning to the rear wheel drive platform.
Excellent powertrain overall, with much less complexity and ease of maintenance than the V6 ecoboost. IMO the 2.3/10spd is more than enough power for something that isn't a sports car and isn't THAT heavy.
Isn't that heavy? Are you high? I have driven the older version of this ecocrap engine and neither the power nor the fuel economy was there. I was stuck at 15-16 mph in city which is well below the ratings. I couldn't wait to get back to my Subaru and that is a dog as well.
@@JTR253 Subaru Outback with the 3.6? The 10 speed is a fantastic transmission in the ford, and 2.3L a reliable engine with a strong midrange and low lag.
DumbDuck44 No a non-Turbo Forester. The 10 speed already has had recalls in the F150 so I’ll stay away from this generation.
@@JTR253 LOL, you're full of poop then. You've never owned an Explorer. You sound like the stereotypical Subaru owner that is mad that everyone mocks his powertrain online, as they really are the worst. And this is coming from a Dodge/Merceds guy that owns no Fords.
I have always been a fan of the Ford Explorer. Alex is knowledgeable 👌
Just ordered a 22 explorer Timberline with the 2.3 ecoboost and torsen rear limited slip. Can't wait!
Thank you for talking about car seats and easily accessible third rows! So many young men do reviews and never mention the important stuff lol
The new generation of Ford products introduced in the last couple of years are looking really promising. I like the direction Ford is headed.
Idk about the 2023 looks like a minivan
Lol....bench seats are now an upgrade option. Rear wheel drive is back. Thank goodness. Great review.
Things long out of style are making their way back, the world is turning upside down ;-) Be prepared for the bell bottoms comeback! ;-)))
@Benjamin Burkhardt ye
It’s amazing to me that in 1982 when ford brought the Mustang GT back its 302 Boss V8 produced 157hp and 240 pounds of torque.
You mean 175 hp. The 83 GT produced in 82 had a FoMoCo licence built Holley 4 barrel (Carter?), 3/4 racing cam and TRX rims with Michelin tires. Mine was from the first batch, and was built with the old 4 speed top loader. 83 1/2 had the 5 speed.
Canada here....Love the 4 wheel drive systems.
I just bought 2.3L Explorer Limited, 😍
Swap the transmission fluid early and often! Look at Ford Tech Makuloko on TH-cam! Have fun!
me too!
Lovin' the resolution of this video.
Absolutely! Just need 60p frame rate 🙏
@@James-rd9mo Hi How much ?
The last explorer was front wheel drive?!?! I like to think im pretty knowledgeable when it comes to cars, this is one of those mindblowing moments.
I love the fact that this channel has been pumping out videos left and right. I know these are recorded before hand but that editor is editing videos like nothing XD.
Cant wait to see that interceptor utility on the streets dominating
I like the smaller screen. Because it has a storage under it and the backup camera will look better then the bigger one.
Blown away that a 2.3 can tow 5300lbs. The last does 2.3 I drive was in a tempo. 🤣
I love this guy. His reviews are great.
Those eco boost engines are built tough like a diesel engine
Looks like Ford really went all in on making a great vehicle and they succeeded! Will consider once some of them hit the used market in a few years. My first car was an Explorer.
Watch Savagegeese review to see all the faults on this Explorer. Interior looks cheap, too much plastic, very poor fit and finish and infotainment looks like an afterthought how it's slapped on the dash. Big issues with transmission in this Explorer which is unfortunate as the 10 speed in other Ford's has been good.
Same
Did you end up getting it?
Just brought home the new 2020 Explorer. Thank you Alex, this video made the decision a lot easier. You are spot on. I love my Explorer.
Any regrets with ownership or are you enjoying it still?
@@housemusic1075 Ford bought it back through the Lemon Law. It was in the shop more than my driveway. Horrible experience in every way.
I bought the base model 2 weeks ago passenger seat belt broke on 2nd day so far that’s all that’s broken
Jay Jay sounds like a piece of junk. I’ve decided I’m buying the 2021 Kia Sorento!
@@housemusic1075 Yes, junk for sure. I love the Sorento, wish you the best.
I'm happy Ford really improved so much of it over the 5th Gen, I just wish they brought the opening rear hatch window back. I hate how that's no longer a thing on most crossovers these days.
Like the 4runner that rolls down.
I love your videos Alex u are the best!
I can’t wait 4 the ST video..
Yes, Alex really is the best. And his Q&A live shows are awesome, he has literally responded to all of my questions, something I have never experienced on any other channel.
My wife needed an SUV to replace her aging Acadia. She did not want to compromise on high-level trim, dual sunroof/moonroof configuration, modern design (that will last for years to come and not look dated), so we went with the XLT Limited. Wow, beautiful SUV. Expensive, but we got it.
Going rear wheel drive is a great decision
This is high praise, especially coming from you, Alex. I MUCH prefer the handling, forward front wheels, and power distribution of RWD, and this confirms why. Thanks for another excellent review.
Alex, you really knocked the ball out of the park with this review. A SUV that most people will buy and a honest one without biases. Explorer really hit this one out of the park! Now if I could get an iron-clad warranty for 5 years and good reports for reliability, I'm getting a Limited. I test drove one and agree with your comments.
Alex on Autos >>> excellent vehicle and a very professional video presentation; thank you Alex! ... you have no equal ;-)
Bold move and a game changer by Ford.
Looks like a home run for Ford!
Like all crossover/suv shoppers, it really depends on the mission that you are expecting your vehicle to accomplish. There is a flavor for all out there on the market.
I honestly don't think most buyers will be cross buying between an Explorer with a Durango, but rather the Pilot, Highlander, Telluride, Palisade, CX-9 and Atlas. The 5000+ lb towing is well in line with what everyone else is offering.
That 3.0L Turbo and RWD!!! It’s a crime the rear end looks so cheap as that’s what most people will see lol. The rest looks great. Thanks for the review Alex.
Hi Alex,
My wife and I are stuck at home due to COVID 19 and using the time to review SUV's. We are moving to the hill country of Texas soon and will be having to drive down a few dirt roads to get to our house property.
The Explorer looks to be a great SUV for our use. We really appreciate your attention to detail.
We just bought a platinum Ford Explorer last Sunday. It’s 4WD and drives smooth. You can turn it on with your phone. It feels very luxurious.
A month ago, I was in a car accident because of a Reckless driver. My 2012 Ford Explorer saved my life & my car was totaled.Therefore, I decided to buy another Ford.
Wow this is so much better than any pilots and Highlanders
I had a 2018 loaded explorer rental for a month and it really grew on me. You feel like a boss driving it
Ford: Do not use
Alex: I live my life to the limit
12:45
Please, Ford, pair the 3.3L naturally aspirated engine with the ZF 8HP automatic transmission without turbo or hybrid. Thanks.
The ZF 8HP is the best ever RWD automatic transmission.
th-cam.com/video/u0BZhs4Ugag/w-d-xo.html
As always Alex completely breaks it down! Thanks Alex!
And another infotainment system that looks like an afterthought
If it was removable it would be justified but damn. Talk about lazy.
Get used to it every manufacturer is doing this crap.
Because that’s what people want big giant I pads
gianfrancoa I like infotainment screens built in the dash. It just looks much better. Dodge is one manufacturer that have a very attractive dash
with infotainment screen builtin.
The 8" looks like an afterthought, the upgraded larger screen DEAD LORD is worst infotainment in any vehicle to date 🤮
I love my 2017 Explorer Sport, but it’s got a problem that annoys me. As a FWD biased vehicle, it’s got torque steer. It pulls to the right while accelerating. The new Explorer will be perfect. Looking forward to get one after a few years!
Ford and Lincoln are killing it! 💪🏻
The last generation was so much better! This video is epic as always ☺
Alex, excellent review, as always! You are the best!
This will be my vehicle!! Nice review Alex.
This may the best nicest ford interior I’ve ever seen (not that that’s saying too much
My 2015 Mustang with the 2.3L ecoboost is currently having the turbo replaced by the dealer under my extended warranty I bought. So lucky I bought this warranty. Kinda makes me wonder if these motors will last. Current mileage 48,000. Kinda really early to be falling apart.
Yikes, thank god you got the ex warranty. Did it crack? Lockup?
This is why I hate that there's no NA V-6 option in the new Explorer. Hate it.
@@rkalla I heard a metalic rattling noise so took it into the dealer. Thought it was a loose engine shield of some sort. All the dealer would say was it didn't sound right so they decided to change the turbo. The rep promised me there was no damage done to the engine. But how can I really be sure? I'm just left to my fate to see if it blows up prematurely or lives on to see a million miles. ;)
Ahhh, why did you need the extended warranty to cover this?? I thought the 2015 Mustang had a 5 yr/60,000 mi powertrain?? That's regular warranty territory. Hope you are back on the road soon. Might be time to start using Full Synthetic oil and changing it every 5,000 or 6,000 miles.
biz4two biz4 I’ve only used Mobil 1 full synthetic high mileage motor oil. The engine has requested changes every ten thousand miles. Here in Canada they only come with a three year 60,000 km warranty. I’m currently at 78,000km =48,000 miles. I don’t think this was oil related. It was something mechanical. The bearings on the turbo were wearing out.
Love my new XLT Ford Explorer its Awsome
Got a 2020? Any regrets with it at all or are you still enjoying it?
Nice! Glad they went back to rear-wheel drive. Front wheel drive just doesn't cut it durability-wise. Handling will be better too.
I never liked Ford but I admit that the return to RWD is very welcome and the car Interior and exterior looks very nice. I love this new Explorer!
I just bought the 2020 Ford explorer limited trim! And I love it! Thank you for your review! We agree with everything you said about the handling, it's a great vehicle
You knocked it out of the park Alex.
So did Ford with this new Explorer, going by what you said.
Thank you Alex and thank you Ford.
Great video. Very comprehensive, professionally done and I liked how you explained the shifting and why it feels the way it does. A good engine and very good handling is important to me.
It's nice but not sure if this worth the upgrade from the 2017 model.
Even in base form this thing is EXPENSIVE as heck.
Not good looking at all to boot.
You seem like a bright dude and you make some unique points that are important that I wouldn't have thought of.
Good video. I would wait until 2021 or 2022 to get one so this way all the kinks worked out 😊
Kinks in Ford's never all get worked out
I would wait until the 2020 Ford Police Interceptor Utilities get decommissioned because you can't get the non Hybrid 3.3 V6 new unless you are the police department.
In 10 years we'll have 500cc quad turbocharged weed whacker motors powering light duty trucks and SUVs...
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Welcome to the FUTURE.
Lobster Johnson No, they will all be EVs, and they will be fast as hell with tons of torque. Don’t be Debbie Downer
EXCELLENT review! Probably the best I've ever seen!
Alex, your reviews are thorough and complete. You will have 3 million subscribers!
Straight Sixes are coming back ... Ford made this RWD ...seems like more good stuffs are coming
If there are good things coming like RWD and straight six's, I would like to see just as many sedans as there are SUVs, they don't need to be killing a more fun to drive vehicle
@@benjamincaron46 Exactly .. me not from America but loves American engineered sedans that has plush ride quality, RWD and understated design elegance etc... its hard to witness true American cars like the town car, Chrysler 300 eventhough its FCA and many cadillac sedans dying in America itself ...Everyone everywhere needs crossovers that are marketed as SUVs ... Its sad
Ford is stuck on small-displacement turboed engines. I'll eat my hat if they put a straight-6 in anything ever again.
@@NukePooch1 i understand... Most manufacturers are downsizing but this 4 cylinder is great indeed
🤞Coupes🤞
I'd like to see a different color interior. The all black interior made it hard to get a feel for the cabin.
I just saw the TFL video and it had the Dune interior.
i think car companies wanna put all black interiors in every car because they dont show dirt and better resale....the interior could be dirty as hell and u'd never know it
A all black interior is also easier on the eyes in sunny driving. Just took a trip with a f150 sport all black. It was wonderful.
Ford has it good with their 2.3L engine.
You're the ONLY reviewer who mention cabin noise by dB. THANK YOU!!!! everyone else's description of "quiet" or "pretty quiet" or "low road noise" means NOTHING! SO GLAD you have object data. Having stated that...i can't seem to catch the decibel for this model's review. Did you do one?
Same longevity concerns as the Volvo XC90 here. This is a very hard-working and very boosted 4-cylinder moving a two-ton SUV.
If it's the 2.3 from the mustang it could hold up OK. The old MazdaSpeed 6 had a 2.3 turbo and it is said to be the same one as in the mustang as that engine was made when ford owned Mazda, and also because both engines were made in the same factory. So yes, reliability is either decent or terrible, only time will tell
I wouldn’t be surprised if this or the Aviator won Utility of the Year at next year’s auto show.
Great job Alex!! Thanks for getting this out.
Very complete and thorough review, nice work! Seems like Ford is the most innovative of the legacy companies
Great review. I wouldn’t have considered the Explorer in my search but am adding it to my wishlist now! Would like to see comparisons with Telluride, Palisade and possibly Highlander. Loving this channel!
I'd spend the extra coin and take an Aviator over this any day of the week. This interior still looks like the typical cheap, hard plastic-encrusted Ford interior.
The Aviator is indeed beautiful.
Aviator has 450hp/600tq in top trim... want to drive that model :)
Love the Aviator but more blue collar so I kinda like the Explorer ST
more.
I agree. Ford has the cheapest interiors... But stepping up to the Lincoln, and it's a whole other story.
Even my neighbors 2019 Expedition Platinum AWD... a $75k Tank, has a cheap interior.
Not as bad as a FCA interior though...
@@matty1053 I don't know if I'd say Ford has the cheapest interiors, as bad as they are. That "honor" would have to go to the GM family (GMC, Chevy, Buick, Caddy...etc). FCA has some pretty bad interiors too, but GM takes the cake.
Alex, your reviews are so very far ahead of everyone else’s reviews......, (OK, your buddy’s Redline reviews are great.....if you’re wild about his “lead foot Louie” stuff). I meant to say something after the Palisade review but was just too excited to see how ford was going to valiantly try to beat the South Koreans. Again, you’re the very best! Dave in Phoenix Arizona USA.
Used to be a Ford fan...Shots of the fit and finish of the dash and interior remind me that a great engine can't make me feel like I spent my money on a quality product...I drive inside and not in the engine bay...appreciate that the platform moved to RWD!! Thanks Alex!!
Please compare the RWD SUVs with the RWD only because I think the FWD SUVs are a different, lower category, and less fun to driver. Thanks Alex.
He did the Durango, the Grand Cherokee and all the others are luxury SUV'S.
Love my new explorer ❤️
Still loving the explorer or any regrets?
I love my ford explorer!
Still enjoying it? Is a 2020? Any issues with it so far?
@@housemusic1075 Still enjoying it no issues at all 🙏
DITTO!😁👍🏻
Awesome video. You are the best reviewer on youtube. Keep it up!!!
You're like a supercomputer....
I have this as a rental... the punchiness of the 4 cylinder really really surprised me.
*✴Alex on Auto✔great🌞review Thank's and Ford🌠Bravo🌌*
A 318 hp HYBRID WTF that's awesome.
Rwd finally good looking
Great review Alex as you were trying to get through all the information on the vehicle I just was thinking how much stuff we have on vehicles compared to vehicles of the pass do you do a good job getting through it
I've always preferred Ford's. However, I am not a fan of Ford's turbo charged or V-6 engines with internal water pumps.
Imo the best 3 row SUV for people who want more power and torque than Kia Telluride / Hyundai Palisade.
Keep the extra hp which you wont notice. Judging by the videos the build quality, materials, and the design of the of Hyundai is much better than the ford.
The Explorer with the 2.3l engine will be a big hit for Ford, well done Ford,
Explorer been FWD since 2010. The profile looks like Range Rover with roof slope down toward back
i just got 2023 explorer xlt its beaty nice features. had 4 other ones, this is great.
As always, great video Alex! Extremely informative and I appreciate how consistent all of your reviews are. I would like to get your opinion on one thing though. What are your thoughts on overall build quality of the Explorer? Not just in terms of materials used, but how well you think it will hold up after a few years of driving. I currently have a 2016 Acura MDX, and after 20,000 miles, it still feels as solid and tight as it did when it was new. Do you think a Ford product would hold up as well?
Thanks for the review Alex, it helped my decision on an Xlt. Engine and handling was better then everything else in this size and price range. Huge discounts from Ford to get the MSRP down. Love driving this vehicle in sport mode.
What other cars did you test drive? CX-9 by any chance ?
Damn Right!!! I got the 2020 XLT with the 2.3L & Twin Scroll Turbo...Sport Mode is *AWESOME!!!* Granted, I treat my engine *RIGHT!* Do my own oil change with Pennzoil Full Synthetic, add in Lucas Synthetic Additive. Also use a Neodymium Magnet Oil Drain Plug as well as a Neodymium FilterMag on my Oil Filter!!!😁👍🏻
@@fookingsog EXACTLY RIGHT ! Treat the vehicle right and maintain it at proper intervals using quality products and you’ll have no problems.
Is there finally a dead pedal? I rented an Explorer a few years ago and could not find a comfortable place for my left foot.
Interesting comment
@@kennethm.380 I've only ever seen one review that mentioned it (Motormouth). But maybe now that it's rear wheel drive they have finally figured out how to provide more left legroom for the driver.
I hate dead pedals and love that my Ford allows my left leg to stretch out without a dead pedal restricting my space.
@@JohnDoe-vh4rt A dead pedal usually means there is space to stretch out your left leg. If there's no space, then they don't put one, because your left foot is always flat on the floor. That was the issue with the previous gen Explorers. Your left knee was always bent. It was almost as bad as the passenger footwell on the old Chevy Astro vans. (Dead pedals are usually very thin and unrestrictive)
I know some of older explorers had engines like the 3.5 that the water pump is turned by the timing chain in the engine and be around a 1,500 dollar job to replace but I wonder if the 2020 model has any engine like that.
This new Explorer has clearly jumped to the head of the pack in this segment. Going back to rear wheel drive was the way to go.
it was at the front of the segment before too
Excellent review and an excellent vehicle!Ford really went all out on the new Explorer's platform and chassis! Its great that it will serve as the basis for many other Ford and Lincoln vehicles!
Great review, as usual, thanks for the very informative review. Not a fan of the Tacted to Dash infotainment placement. You'd think with this being a total design, Ford's interior engineers would have integrated it better into the dash rather than taking the easy/cheap way out, by tacting it on top of the dash. I like the power, handling, and quickness of that base engine. Worth a test drive, but worry about the $$$$$ increases. This is a Ford, not a luxury offering, but is costing like them.
I configured a base XLT model and had to add the 202 package just to get Ford's safety suite that pushed it from 37k up to 44k instantly. By the time you do anything, you're pushing 50k. If you don't need or desire the safety tech, you can stay around 40k with AWD.
Great review. I wish you great success as you work very hard.
Seems to be the best of the "nonpremium" bunch, also the most fun to drive one. I am a little bot of Ford fan, but......Congrats for the review!
2:10 The vehicle is so wide, minivan wide. I wonder what platform they build it on, since Ford doesn't make a minivan. The Pilot's dimensions are extra wide, but its built on the Odyssey platform
It’s their brand new platform...look it up
As always Alex you are the best and my favorite on TH-cam man. You helped me choose my last vehicle so that alone speaks volumes. I’m currently shopping for my next car and wanted to ask would you prefer the new KIA Telluride or the New Ford Explorer. Both at the top tier fully loaded versions. Which would you prefer. Yes I’d like to have fun driving, but I’d prefer a more elegant interior ambiance and a more practical three row crossover. So I hope you consider stacking these two against one another. Thanks again bud. Take care.
Excellent review. Alex does a very informative job and understands the difference with rear wheel drive compared to all the other front drive clones. After reading all his reviews on the 2020 Explorer I actually bought the ST model. Kills all the competition except the BMW X7 which is 30k more. The only thing hes wrong about his information is the cargo space with the 3rd row and 2nd row folded. It is a lot larger and wider.