2019 Ford Explorer Hybrid Rumors

The forthcoming 2019 Ford Explorer Hybrid is an upscale SUV that is both durable and family-friendly. It can accommodate up to 7 passengers and the interior is very comfortable. You had an opportunity to read our verdict on the standard Ford Explorer and Explorer Sport models.

Both of the models are using two different types of engine, however, Explorer could see a hybrid drivetrain in the near future. As the rumors go, the main reason for the plug-in variant isn’t the customers, but the police. Yes, the future Explorer hybrid will be used as the police interceptor.

Exterior and Interior

We had an opportunity to see the teaser photo of the all-new 2019 Ford Explorer Hybrid. The good news is that both the exterior and interior will stay intact. The front end comes with the LED headlights and the bumper and grille will remain the same. The styling is aggressive and upscale, and most of the body sports sculpted and bulging lines.

The interior of the regular model offers plenty of room. Another good news is that the hybrid drivetrain will not compromise any of the cabin space. That means there will still be seating for seven passengers over the three rows. The legroom is ample, and getting in and out of this SUV is no problem. The tech features are upscale, and both a digital display and infotainment touchscreen are providing everything you need to know about the vehicle.

Plug-In Hybrid Drivetrain

The base model is using the 2.3-liter V6EcoBoost engine with four cylinders. This unit generates 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the 2019 Ford Explorer Hybrid will use the combination of the V6 and possibly a single electric motor. This variant will boost the performance a bit more, around the 340 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Another drastic change is that the upcoming Explorer Hybrid will switch from the front to the rear-wheel drive. The reason is that the rear-wheel drive is standard for the police cars.

Mileage

While the numbers of the fuel economy aren’t specified yet, the rumors are saying that the new 2019 Ford Explorer Hybrid will see a 40 percent of improvement. With the base model makes 24 mpg combined, we can assume that the plug-in hybrid variant will manage around 42 mpg.

Towing

The regular Explorer model can tow up to 5,000 pounds, however, stronger drivetrain output should help new Explorer Hybrid in this department. According to speculations, Ford’s latest hybrid SUV will tow around 6,000 pounds which would come as a huge improvement. However, it is still far from the class-leading Dodge Durango that can tow 7,400 pounds.

2019 Ford Explorer Hybrid Price and Release Date

The approaching 2019 Ford Explorer Hybrid will see a price increase, that’s for sure. Whatsoever, Explorer fits into Ford’s plans to electrify most of the lineups. Moreover, a switch from rear to the front-wheel-drive configuration could happen, in order to justify the customer’s needs. While the base price starts at $32,500, the Explorer Hybrid model will for sure cost over $40,000.