Skip to main content

Don’t let the Ford Explorer slip under your radar, it’s about to receive one heck of a mid-cycle refresh. We’re pretty excited about a few of the updates that will fix crucial issues. Check out what to expect with the new and spicier 2024 Ford Explorer. It might have a lot in common with the Chinese model.

2024 Ford Explorer: What’s new?

2024 Ford Explorer redesign
2024 Ford Explorer China | Ford

Based on recent spy photos, we know that the 2024 Ford Explorer is getting a new face. It’s due for a mid-cycle refresh, so it will have a few updates instead of an entire redesign. But the updated Explorer has only been caught while wearing tons of camouflage.

It looks like the LED headlights will be larger and slightly wrapped around the corners of the bumper. It has a boxier shape to add a little more confidence, and we’re willing to bet that the grille will be larger. It’s expected to look like the Chinese variant but could have slight variations.

Also, the rear end is getting restyled. It’s safe to expect new LED taillights and a revised back bumper shape. The position of the tailgate handle and Explorer logo might be updated to provide a more modern feeling.

The Explorer could get new wheel designs and a few spicy new shades of paint. Multiple appearance packages could be available since the Explorer is pretty diverse. Heck, even the Explorer Raptor could be on the table.

The racing-oriented Explorer ST model might be sportier, and the Timberline could gain more off-roading upgrades. Plus, don’t forget about the luxurious Ford Explorer King Ranch model with Western themes.

May the 2024 Explorer gain more power?

According to CarScoops, the 2024 Ford Explorer could borrow the new 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine from the 2024 Ford Mustang. It cranks out 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. It might replace the current standard engine.

With the 2023 Explorer, you get a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. You can upgrade to the turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine for 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque.

We’re hoping for a more fuel-efficient hybrid setup to become available. Currently, the Ford Explorer Hybrid uses a 3.3-liter V6 engine with an electric motor to generate 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque.

The Explorer Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and up to 28 mpg on the highway. Adding AWD reduces these figures to 23 in the city and 26, respectively on the highway. Ideally, it would reach about 35 mpg. It’s a bit underwhelming at the moment.

Also, rumors of an Explorer PHEV are surfacing, so it could have an electric range. We don’t expect the Explorer EV to arrive in America until later. It has a facility to be manufactured in China, but we aren’t sure if American factories have the capacity to build them yet.

Could the 2024 Explorer interior be better?

2024 Ford Explorer Hybrid
2024 Ford Explorer EV China| Ford

Yes, the 2024 Ford Explorer is receiving notable interior improvements. The vertical infotainment system is being replaced by a horizontal unit. The current system is dated with tons of blank space. But itgets the basics like navigation and music done.

Also, the Explorer could get an updated digital gauge cluster with an enhanced resolution and more capabilities. We wouldn’t be surprised by a new head-up display, 360-degree camera system, or a stronger wireless phone charging pad either.

Premium, upscale materials could replace cheap plastics in the interior. The new Explorer could feature more soft-touch covered surfaces and premium leather upholstery.

The 2024 Ford Explorer is expected to come out by the end of the year, so we could learn more soon. Stay tuned for the latest Ford updates. We’re ticking closer every day.