2020 Ford Explorer Limited: A Deep Dive Review
Hey everyone, today we're diving deep into the 2020 Ford Explorer Limited. This SUV was a major player in the mid-size SUV game, and for good reason. The Explorer Limited packs a ton of features, a comfortable ride, and a stylish look that made it a popular choice for families and anyone needing a versatile vehicle. If you're considering buying a used one, or just curious about what this model offers, then you're in the right place. We'll cover everything from performance and features to what makes it stand out from the crowd. Let's get started, shall we?
Performance and Powertrain
Alright, first things first, let's talk about what's under the hood. The 2020 Ford Explorer Limited offered a few engine options, but the most common one was a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. This engine was a real workhorse, delivering a solid 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. This combo provided plenty of pep for daily driving, merging onto the highway, and even some light off-roading, though it's not really built for hardcore trails. The EcoBoost engine's responsiveness made the Explorer feel surprisingly nimble for its size, which is a major plus. The car is able to go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds. This acceleration is sufficient for most daily driving situations. And with its fuel economy, it is estimated to reach 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for the rear-wheel-drive version, which is pretty decent for a vehicle of this size. You can also get it with all-wheel drive, which gives you extra traction in those snowy or slippery conditions. In terms of handling, the Explorer Limited has a well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and keeps the ride comfortable. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and park in tight spots. Overall, the 2020 Ford Explorer Limited's performance is well-rounded. It offers a good balance of power, fuel efficiency, and handling, making it a pleasant vehicle to drive in various situations. The engine provides enough power for everyday driving and highway cruising, while the transmission ensures smooth shifts. The suspension contributes to a comfortable ride, and the steering is responsive. The availability of all-wheel drive adds versatility for different weather conditions. While not designed for extreme off-roading, the Explorer Limited performs admirably in everyday scenarios, making it a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for many drivers.
Now, let's say you're looking for more power? Ford also offered a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, which was available in the Platinum and ST trims. That beast cranks out up to 365 horsepower and a whopping 380 lb-ft of torque. If you're a person that has extra money to spend, you could get a hybrid version. The 2020 Ford Explorer Limited Hybrid came with a 3.3-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor, and this is a great alternative if you want to save on gas. The hybrid powertrain is able to produce 318 horsepower, and it delivers pretty good fuel economy for an SUV of this size. The hybrid engine will provide you with a quiet and efficient drive.
Interior, Comfort, and Features
Now let's step inside, because the interior is where the 2020 Ford Explorer Limited really shines. The seats are super comfortable, wrapped in leather, and often include heated and cooled front seats, which are a game-changer on those hot summer days or freezing winter mornings. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. The Explorer is a three-row SUV, and the second row has good legroom, and the third row is surprisingly usable for adults on shorter trips. The materials used inside are of good quality, and the design is modern and stylish. It feels like a premium experience. The dashboard is well-laid-out, with easy-to-reach controls. The infotainment system, with a large touchscreen display, is the centerpiece of the dash, and is loaded with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which is awesome for staying connected on the go. The Limited trim also comes packed with a bunch of extra features. You can get things like a premium sound system for blasting your favorite tunes, a panoramic sunroof to let in the natural light, and a hands-free liftgate, so you don't have to fumble with keys when your hands are full. The interior is a place where you'll really appreciate the attention to detail that Ford put into the Explorer Limited. The vehicle is designed to provide maximum comfort and convenience for both drivers and passengers. The seats are specifically designed to provide good support and adjustability. The infotainment system with its large touchscreen is easy to use and provides access to various features like navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto ensures seamless smartphone integration, allowing users to access their favorite apps and music while driving. The overall cabin design is elegant, offering a sense of luxury. The panoramic sunroof adds to the feeling of spaciousness, while the hands-free liftgate enhances the convenience when loading cargo. The thoughtful combination of high-quality materials, advanced technology, and comfort-focused features makes the 2020 Ford Explorer Limited a great choice for long trips or daily commutes.
Technology and Infotainment
Okay, let's dive into the tech side of things. The 2020 Ford Explorer Limited is loaded with tech features that make your life easier and safer. The centerpiece of the tech setup is the infotainment system, which features a large touchscreen display. This is your control center for everything from navigation to audio to climate control. As I mentioned before, it includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which means you can easily connect your smartphone and access your apps, music, and navigation directly on the touchscreen. The system is pretty intuitive and user-friendly, and the graphics are clear and easy to read. You will find that the Explorer Limited comes standard with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of safety features, which is like having a bunch of extra eyes on the road. This includes things like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help prevent accidents and make you feel more confident on the road. You can also get a digital instrument cluster, which replaces the traditional gauges with a digital display that can be customized to show different information, like navigation directions or your music playlist. Other available tech features include a wireless charging pad, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and multiple USB ports, so everyone can stay connected and keep their devices charged. The 2020 Ford Explorer Limited's technology package is all about making your driving experience more enjoyable and safer. The user-friendly infotainment system, along with smartphone integration, offers a wide range of entertainment and connectivity options. The advanced driver-assistance features enhance safety by actively monitoring the road and assisting in accident prevention. Additional features, such as the digital instrument cluster, wireless charging, and Wi-Fi hotspot, add to the convenience and overall driving experience. The combination of these features makes the Explorer Limited a technologically advanced and well-equipped SUV.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority, and the 2020 Ford Explorer Limited has you covered. As mentioned earlier, the Co-Pilot360 suite comes standard. The adaptive cruise control helps maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. The lane-keeping assist helps keep you in your lane, and the automatic emergency braking can help prevent or mitigate a collision. The Explorer also comes with a full complement of airbags, including side-curtain airbags for all three rows. You also get features like a rearview camera and rear parking sensors, which make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. You can also get features like a 360-degree camera system, which gives you a bird's-eye view of your surroundings, making parking and navigating narrow streets a breeze. The 2020 Ford Explorer Limited is a well-regarded vehicle in terms of safety. With a combination of advanced driver-assistance systems and a robust airbag system, the Explorer aims to protect occupants in various driving scenarios. The suite of safety features actively monitors the road, assisting in accident prevention and mitigation. The rearview camera and parking sensors help simplify maneuvering, while the 360-degree camera system provides an enhanced view. Overall, the 2020 Ford Explorer Limited received good safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These ratings indicate the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in the event of a crash. Ford's commitment to safety is evident in the features and the overall performance of the Explorer Limited.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2020 Ford Explorer Limited was just one of several trim levels available. You had the base Explorer, the XLT, the Limited, the ST, and the Platinum. The Limited was positioned towards the higher end, offering a balance of luxury and features. The price of a new 2020 Ford Explorer Limited varied depending on the options and the location, but it was generally in the mid-range of the mid-size SUV market. Now, if you're looking at a used one, the price will depend on factors like the mileage, condition, and location. You can expect to pay anywhere from $30,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the factors listed above. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices from different dealers and private sellers to get the best deal. You should also get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic to make sure the vehicle is in good condition. The trim levels catered to a range of preferences and budgets. The Limited trim was positioned to offer a blend of luxury and practical features. The price of the 2020 Ford Explorer Limited would fluctuate based on the specific configuration and any additional options chosen by the buyer. Therefore, if you are looking into the 2020 Ford Explorer Limited then be sure to check the pricing in your area. For those considering a used model, prices are influenced by factors like mileage, overall condition, and the seller. It's advisable to conduct thorough research, compare prices from different sources, and obtain a pre-purchase inspection to make an informed decision and ensure the vehicle's quality.
Pros and Cons
Let's break down the good and the bad of the 2020 Ford Explorer Limited. On the plus side, you get a comfortable and spacious interior, a long list of features, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a smooth ride. The engine is powerful and fuel-efficient, and the availability of all-wheel drive adds versatility. It also offers a solid safety rating. However, there are a few downsides to consider. Some people found the third-row seating to be a bit cramped for adults. Also, the base engine may feel a bit underpowered when fully loaded. Like some other SUVs, the fuel economy isn't the best in its class. Overall, the pros outweigh the cons, especially if you're looking for a family-friendly SUV with plenty of features and a comfortable ride. The 2020 Ford Explorer Limited really shines in its interior comfort, the array of features it offers, and the user-friendly nature of its infotainment system. Its responsive engine, along with available all-wheel-drive, increases its versatility for drivers. While it boasts a strong safety record, some may find the third-row seating a bit tight for adults. Despite this, the positives generally outweigh the negatives, making it a strong option for those seeking a family-friendly SUV with a focus on convenience and comfort.
Conclusion
So, is the 2020 Ford Explorer Limited a good choice? Absolutely! If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that offers a great blend of comfort, features, and performance, then it should definitely be on your list. It's a versatile vehicle that's perfect for families, road trips, and everyday driving. Just be sure to do your research, compare prices, and get a pre-purchase inspection if you're buying used. I hope this review has been helpful. Happy car hunting, everyone! In summary, the 2020 Ford Explorer Limited stands out as a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. It offers a great blend of comfort, features, and performance. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of driving needs. For those seeking a reliable and well-equipped SUV, the Explorer Limited is a great choice. It's worth considering when you are deciding what car to buy next, so do not let it pass you by.
