Ford Explorer: Big cruiser, bold tech - but is Ford’s new Explorer truly an explorer at heart?
The Ford Explorer name carries serious baggage. In the US it’s an icon; in the UK it’s largely a cinematic footnote best known for outrunning dinosaurs. Now, Ford has rebooted the badge for Europe as a mid‑size electric SUV, engineered in Germany and built on Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform – the same underpinnings as the VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq.
On paper, it promises American presence with European polish. On the road, things are a little more nuanced.
What is it?
The Ford Explorer Electric is a five‑seat, all‑electric family SUV, slotting beneath the Mustang Mach‑E. Despite the name, this Explorer is not sold in the US – it’s a Europe‑only model designed to compete with the Tesla Model Y, Renault Scenic E‑Tech, Skoda Enyaq and Volkswagen ID.4.
UK buyers get a choice of Standard Range (52kWh) or Extended Range (77kWh) batteries, rear‑wheel drive as standard, with a dual‑motor AWD version available at the top of the range.
Performance & Driving
Ford has a strong reputation for chassis tuning, but the Explorer doesn’t quite hit the brand’s historical sweet spot.
In normal driving it goes along briskly enough, with the Extended Range RWD model feeling the pick of the line‑up. However, this is clearly a heavy car, and you’re always aware of its mass. Push harder and the Explorer starts to feel boat‑like, with noticeable body movement through bends and a reluctance to change direction quickly.
The brakes do the job, but hard stops require commitment, reinforcing the sense that this is a cruiser rather than a back‑road attacker. This is not a car that relishes B‑roads. Instead, it settles into a more comfortable rhythm on faster A‑roads and motorways, where it genuinely excels.
On the motorway, the Explorer is a relaxed, refined long‑distance companion – quiet, stable and confidence‑inspiring at speed. For commuting and big journeys, it’s a very pleasant place to be.
Interior & Technology
Step inside, and the Explorer makes an immediate visual statement – though opinions will vary.
The cabin is dominated by Ford’s SYNC Move infotainment system, featuring a large 14.6‑inch portrait touchscreen that physically slides to reveal a hidden storage locker behind it. It’s clever, and undeniably a talking point, but also emblematic of the Explorer’s biggest flaw: too much reliance on the screen.
Basic functions funnel through the display, and while the graphics are sharp and response times good, it can feel overwhelming and distracting on the move. Physical controls are in short supply.
Material quality is another mixed bag. While the design looks impressive, some surfaces feel cheap and flimsy, falling short of expectations at this price point. That impression isn’t helped by steering wheel buttons positioned uncomfortably close to the rim, making them easy to press accidentally during driving.
Practical touches are strong, though. There’s a huge 17‑litre MegaConsole, wireless phone charging, ample storage, and a 470‑litre boot, making the Explorer easy to live with day‑to‑day.
Range, Charging & Running
Charging performance is a highlight. The Explorer supports DC rapid charging at up to 135kW, allowing a 10–80% top‑up in around 25 minutes under ideal conditions.
Official WLTP ranges are competitive:
- Standard Range (52kWh): up to ~239 miles
- Extended Range (77kWh): up to ~374 miles, depending on version
Real‑world motorway range will be lower, but for most UK use, the bigger battery offers genuine long‑distance ability without charging anxiety.
UK Pricing & Trims
UK pricing undercuts several premium rivals:
- Style (Standard Range) – from £39,285
- Select (Extended Range RWD) – from £45,885
- Premium (Standard Range) – from £43,985
- Premium (Extended Range RWD) – from £49,985
- Premium AWD (Extended Range) – from £53,985
Standard equipment is generous, particularly on Select trim, which includes heated seats and steering wheel, massaging driver’s seat, wireless phone charging and full driver assistance tech. Premium adds upgraded audio, Matrix LED headlights and ambient lighting.
Verdict
The Ford Explorer Electric is at its best when you treat it as what it really is: a comfort‑focused electric cruiser rather than an enthusiastic driver’s car.
It’s spacious, refined on the motorway, well‑equipped and sensibly priced. As a commuting tool or long‑distance family EV, it does the job convincingly. But the combination of considerable weight, soft handling and a screen‑heavy interior means it lacks the spark you might expect from a Ford wearing such a legendary badge.