Transportation

2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid Rated At 28 MPG Rear Drive, 25 MPG 4WD


Sam Abuelsamid

Nearly three months after the 2020 Ford Explorer started shipping out to dealers, the new hybrid version has finally be signed off by the EPA. While the first application of Ford’s new modular hybrid system will be the most efficient Explorer to date, it won’t be taking any overall fuel economy crowns from Toyota. The rear drive Explorer hybrid is rated at 28 mpg combined and the four wheel drive is just 25 mpg combined.

The RWD hybrid beats the 2.3-liter turbo four-cylinder version by 4 mpg while the AWD variant gains only 2 mpg on its gas engine sibling.  By way of comparison, the 2019 Toyota Highlander hybrid which only comes with AWD is also rated at 28 mpg and the Acura MDX Sport Hybrid gets a 27 mpg window sticker.  When the next-generation 2020 Highlander arrives early next year, Toyota is replacing its V6 engine with a four cylinder and promises up to 34 mpg.

While the new Explorer hybrid won’t be topping mileage charts, it does have some advantages over competitors, especially if you need to tow. The four-cylinder Explorer can tow up 5,300 pounds and the twin-turbo V6 in Platinum and ST can pull 5,600 pounds. The electrified Ford can pull 5,000, something it did with ease when we drove it in June. The Toyota is limited to just 3,500 pounds and towing isn’t recommended at all for the Acura. Given the reduced output of the new Highlander, it may tow even less.

Sam Abuelsamid

Clearly, Ford has opted to sacrifice some potential efficiency for the capability that it thinks customers in this segment will want in order to get more sales volume. Hybrids have been stuck at less than 2% of the total US market for many years and it will be interesting to see if Ford’s approach trying balance performance and efficiency attributes can start to bump that up. The good news is that consumers will have more choices in 2020 and beyond and will be able to find a vehicle that matches their needs.

 



READ NEWS SOURCE

This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this site, you accept our use of cookies.