Ford showcases Explorer ST and Explorer ST hybrid at 2019 NAIAS

MANILA: Ford had unveiled the 2020 Explorer SUV with upgraded features and more powerful EcoBoost engines last week. And now, the American carmaker has showcased two new variants of this high-performance SUV crossover, the Explorer ST and the Explorer ST hybrid at the 2019 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), at Detroit, Michigan.

The ST variant replaces the existing Explorer Sport trim with a powerful engine, tighter chassis tuning, and aggressive styling. It now comes with a V6 3.0-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost engine which generates 405 PS of power and 562 Nm of peak torque. The Explorer ST comes with four-wheel drive as standard along with the new ten-speed automatic transmission. With a more aggressive power generating unit, the braking system also gets an upgrade. It now consists of larger ventilated discs with stainless steel pistons and large red-colored brake callipers enabling the vehicle with greater stopping power at any speed.

The Explorer ST showcases an enticing new sportier look both inside and out. It gets a blacked-out mesh grille at the front with Explorer badging on the hood. The tailgate gets additional black trim pieces, a new roof rack, a skid plate, and huge 21-inch alloy wheels. What sets it apart from the regular Explorer are the additions like the ‘ST’ logo-embossed flat-bottom steering wheel, leather sport bucket seats, and new sporty floor mats.

Explorer ST Hybrid variant, on the other hand, gets its power from a V6 3.3-litre hybrid powertrain capable of generating well over 320 PS power and has an estimated driving range of 804 km on the rear-wheel drive models. It also comes with a ten-speed automatic transmission similar to the ‘Explorer ST’ variant. This hybrid crossover comes with a battery pack placed in the rear compartment under the second-row seats. It is expected that the hybrid variant may come with active noise cancellation, Ford Co-Pilot 360-degree assistance, leather upholstery, active driver assistance system, 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, ten-way adjustable driver and passenger seats, and wireless phone charging as well. The Philippine market currently has the Ford Explorer 2019 on offer, do not miss to check it out.