2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid: Comprehensive Review & Comparison
Key Takeaways:
- The 2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid offers 27/29/28 mpg (RWD) or 23/26/25 mpg (AWD) — falling short of Toyota's Highlander Hybrid
- With an 18-gallon tank, the Explorer Hybrid achieves 450-504 miles of range depending on drivetrain
- Superior towing capacity at 5,000 lbs compared to Highlander Hybrid's 3,500 lbs
- Priced from $53,475 in Limited trim with 318 combined horsepower
Fuel Economy Realities: How the Explorer Hybrid Measures Up
The 2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid promised impressive long-distance capability with its EPA-estimated 504-mile maximum range, but our real-world testing and competitive analysis reveal some sobering realities about this three-row hybrid SUV.
According to official EPA figures published on FuelEconomy.gov, the rear-wheel-drive Explorer Hybrid achieves:
- 27 mpg city
- 29 mpg highway
- 28 mpg combined
The all-wheel-drive version sees reduced efficiency at:
- 23 mpg city
- 26 mpg highway
- 25 mpg combined
While these numbers represent a 9-25% improvement over the conventional Explorer's ratings, they fall notably short of the segment-leading Toyota Highlander Hybrid's performance.
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The Toyota Highlander Hybrid: A Formidable Competitor
When comparing the 2020 Explorer Hybrid to its chief rival, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, several key differences emerge:
Specification | 2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid | 2019 Toyota Highlander Hybrid | 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid |
---|---|---|---|
Combined MPG (AWD) | 25 mpg | 28-29 mpg | 34 mpg (estimated) |
Maximum Range | 450-504 miles | 482-557 miles | TBD |
Towing Capacity | 5,000 lbs | 3,500 lbs | TBD |
Base Price | $53,475 | $38,635 | $38,200 |
The redesigned 2020 Highlander Hybrid's switch from a V6 to a more efficient four-cylinder hybrid system gives Toyota a significant advantage in fuel economy, with preliminary estimates suggesting a 34 mpg combined rating — nearly 36% better than the AWD Explorer Hybrid's 25 mpg.
Powertrain and Performance Specifications
The Explorer Hybrid combines a 3.3-liter V6 engine with a 35-kilowatt electric motor and 1.5-kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering:
- 318 combined horsepower
- 322 lb-ft of torque
- 10-speed automatic transmission
This output compares favorably to the standard Explorer's turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder (300 hp, 310 lb-ft), though the hybrid system adds considerable weight. The electric components don't compromise interior space, maintaining the Explorer's generous passenger and cargo capacity.
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Real-World Driving Experience
During our 1,180-mile evaluation trip, the Explorer Hybrid consistently fell short of its EPA estimates, particularly in highway driving conditions. Several factors contributed to this discrepancy:
- Aerodynamic limitations of the boxy SUV design at higher speeds
- Frequent engagement of the gasoline engine even during light-load conditions
- Weight penalty of the hybrid system (approximately 300 lbs over conventional models)
The hybrid system operates smoothly in urban environments, with seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power. However, the fuel economy benefits diminish significantly during sustained highway cruising — the very scenario where the Explorer's long-range capability would be most valuable.
Towing and Practical Considerations
Where the Explorer Hybrid distinguishes itself is in towing capacity. With a maximum rating of 5,000 pounds, it outperforms the outgoing Highlander Hybrid by 1,500 pounds — a significant advantage for buyers needing to haul boats, trailers, or recreational vehicles.
Important Note: Toyota hasn't released towing specifications for the redesigned 2020 Highlander Hybrid, but the switch to a smaller four-cylinder engine suggests capacity may decrease rather than increase.
The Explorer Hybrid maintains all the practicality of the standard model, including:
- Three rows of seating (up to 7 passengers)
- 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row
- 87.8 cubic feet maximum cargo capacity
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Pricing and Value Proposition
Available exclusively in Limited trim, the Explorer Hybrid carries a substantial price premium:
- Base MSRP: $53,475 (including destination)
- Price compared to gas Limited: $4,000 premium
- Price compared to Highlander Hybrid: $15,000+ premium
At this price point, buyers must carefully consider whether the Explorer Hybrid's advantages in towing and interior space justify its fuel economy shortcomings and significant price differential compared to segment leaders.
Who Should Consider the 2020 Explorer Hybrid?
The Explorer Hybrid makes the most sense for specific buyer profiles:
- Fleet operators needing maximum range between refueling stops
- Active families requiring both passenger space and occasional heavy towing
- Ford loyalists who prefer domestic brands but want hybrid technology
For most shoppers prioritizing fuel efficiency in a three-row hybrid SUV, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid remains the benchmark. However, the Explorer Hybrid offers a compelling alternative for those whose needs align with its particular strengths.
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Future Outlook and Competitive Landscape
As hybrid and electric SUV options proliferate, Ford faces increasing pressure to improve the Explorer Hybrid's efficiency. Several developments loom on the horizon:
- 2021+ competitors: New hybrid entries from Chevrolet, Hyundai, and Kia
- Plug-in potential: Could a PHEV version close the efficiency gap?
- Next-gen platforms: Ford's future EV architecture may better accommodate electrification
The current Explorer Hybrid serves as a transitional offering — demonstrating Ford's commitment to electrification while acknowledging the compromises inherent in adapting a conventional SUV platform to hybrid power.
Final Verdict
The 2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid delivers on its promise of extended range and maintains the Explorer's trademark versatility, but falls short of class-leading fuel economy standards. Buyers prioritizing maximum efficiency should wait for the redesigned Highlander Hybrid or consider upcoming competitors, while those needing robust towing capacity will find the Explorer Hybrid uniquely capable among hybrid SUVs.
As the hybrid SUV market evolves, we expect Ford to address these efficiency gaps in future iterations, potentially through more advanced electrification strategies or dedicated hybrid platforms.
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