The Ford Explorer, a name synonymous with American SUVs for decades, takes a bold leap into the electric era. This isn’t just a rehash of a classic; this all-new, all-electric family SUV is conceived and engineered by Ford of Europe, charting a new course and, for now, bypassing the American market. This Ford Explorer Review delves into whether this European-bred EV lives up to the Explorer name and if it’s ready to take on the competitive electric SUV landscape.
Beneath the Explorer’s sleek and contemporary skin lies a surprising collaboration – Volkswagen’s widely acclaimed MEB platform. Shared with vehicles like the VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq, this platform underpins Ford’s foray into electric passenger cars as part of a strategic alliance with Volkswagen, aimed at streamlining development and manufacturing. But does this shared foundation translate to a generic driving experience, or has Ford injected its own DNA into the Explorer?
Striking a Pose: Design and Styling
Visually, the Ford Explorer adopts a refreshingly smooth and inoffensive design language. Its aerodynamic profile speaks to modern efficiency, a departure from some of the more aggressively styled SUVs in its class. While some might argue for a bolder, more distinctive aesthetic, the Explorer’s understated elegance is arguably part of its appeal. It’s a design that’s likely to age gracefully, appealing to a broad audience seeking sophisticated simplicity rather than polarizing angles and creases.
Battery, Range, and Charging: Powering the Journey
Ford offers a trio of battery options for the Explorer, catering to different needs and budgets. The single-motor, 77kWh Extended Range RWD variant emerges as the likely frontrunner, boasting a compelling range of up to 374 miles (WLTP). For those seeking all-wheel drive capability, the Extended Range AWD variant packs a 79kWh usable battery, delivering a WLTP range of 329 miles. A more accessible 52kWh model is slated to join the lineup later, promising a WLTP range of 239 miles for shorter journeys and urban dwellers.
Charging convenience is a key consideration for EV ownership, and the Explorer doesn’t disappoint. Across all battery variants, expect a 10-80% rapid charge in approximately 30 minutes at compatible charging stations. This competitive charging time minimizes downtime on longer trips, aligning with the practical demands of family life.
Interior and Practicality: Space for the Family and More
Stepping inside the Ford Explorer reveals a spacious and well-appointed cabin, prioritizing passenger comfort. While it forgoes a front trunk or ‘frunk’ for cable storage, the 470-litre boot offers a respectable cargo capacity, supplemented by useful underfloor storage. Though not quite matching the cavernous boots of the Skoda Enyaq or Tesla Model Y, the Explorer’s luggage space remains highly practical for family duties.
The dashboard design is a standout feature, dominated by a striking, vertically oriented 14.6-inch touchscreen. This central hub controls most vehicle functions and infotainment features, offering a modern and streamlined user experience. However, the touch-sensitive steering wheel controls present a notable ergonomic niggle. These can be overly sensitive, leading to accidental activations, a minor but persistent annoyance for the driver.
Behind the Wheel: The Driving Experience
For driving enthusiasts and Ford loyalists, the Explorer delivers reassuringly familiar dynamics. Ford’s engineers have successfully imbued the Volkswagen MEB platform with a distinct Ford character. The single-motor, rear-wheel drive 77kWh model, expected to be the volume seller, strikes an excellent balance, providing a composed and enjoyable driving experience. It’s a testament to Ford’s tuning prowess that the Explorer manages to feel intrinsically like a Ford, despite its shared underpinnings.
However, this focus on a more engaging driving feel comes with a slight trade-off in ride comfort. The Explorer’s suspension is tuned on the firmer side, meaning sharper road imperfections and bumps are transmitted more noticeably into the cabin compared to rivals like the Skoda Enyaq. While not overly harsh, it’s a characteristic to consider, especially for those prioritizing ultimate ride plushness.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The Ford Explorer range starts at just under £40,000 for the entry-level 52kWh Explorer Select. However, the more desirable 77kWh battery variant elevates the starting price to just under £46,000. This positions the Explorer in a competitive price bracket, though it’s worth noting that alternatives like the Renault Scenic E-Tech offer comparable range at a potentially lower cost. The optional heat pump, priced at £1050, is also a notable extra, especially for maximizing efficiency in colder climates.
Despite the price considerations, the Explorer compensates with a generous level of standard equipment, even in its base ‘Select’ trim. Features like 12-way electric seat adjustment with massage function, heated seats, and keyless entry are typically optional extras in this class, adding to the Explorer’s value proposition.
Verdict: A Solid Electric SUV Contender
The Ford Explorer emerges as a compelling contender in the electric family SUV segment. It successfully blends practicality with an engaging driving experience, wrapped in a stylish and well-equipped package. Its useful driving range and rapid charging capabilities further enhance its appeal.
However, the electric SUV market is fiercely competitive, with rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Renault Scenic E-Tech presenting strong challenges, particularly in terms of finance offers. For the Ford Explorer to truly make its mark, compelling cash deals and attractive monthly finance packages will be crucial in attracting buyers in this dynamic and demanding market. Ultimately, this Ford Explorer review concludes that it’s a highly recommendable electric family SUV, deserving serious consideration for those seeking a blend of practicality, driving enjoyment, and electric mobility.
