The 2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid Features a Weird Drivetrain Layout

TopSpeed

By Ciprian Florea

Published Jan 15, 2019

Where's the 3.0-liter EcoBoost from the Aviator?

Ford made somewhat of a surprise move at the 2019 Detroit Auto Show and introduced a couple more versions of the brand-new Explorer. Unveiled just last week, the Explorer came to Detroit in new ST and Hybrid trims. The latter features a rather weird drivetrain layout, especially given what FoMoCo offers in other hybrids.

The Explorer is offered with either a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder or a new 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 in the non-hybrid setup. The electrified version, on the other hand, pairs the electric motor to a naturally aspirated, 3.3-liter V-6. The latter also shares the 10-speed automatic transmission, as well as the battery and its position under the right-side seats, so it makes me wonder why Ford didn't opt for the same 3.0-liter V-6 gas engine.

Making things weirder is that the 3.3-liter V-6, available in the F-150 pickup truck since 2017, is less efficient than the EcoBoost V-6 units. Precise EPA ratings aren't yet available beyond the estimated 500 miles combined, but it doesn't make much sense to go with a less efficient engine when you have a solid turbo in a similar SUV.

Although there are no mileage figures to compare, it doesn't make sense from an output standpoint either.

Seriously now, why would Ford go with a less efficient and less powerful drivetrain when it already has the good combo in the Lincoln Aviator, a rebadged Explorer? Was this choice made so that the Aviator benefits from a premium-like advantage in this department? If so, why didn't Ford pair the electric motor to a smaller EcoBoost V-6, like the 2.7-liter, or even a four-cylinder mill?

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