In China, Ford has unveiled the redesigned Explorer. The model first appeared in spy images in February of last year, and in April, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Technology published comprehensive but unofficial photos of the model. Since the Beijing Auto Show, where it was scheduled to debut, was postponed without a new date, Ford has formally announced it online.
With an updated exterior and a new, enormous screen within the cabin, the 2023 Ford Explorer is the new flagship model in its lineup.
the China-spec The Ford Explorer is built on the same CD6 platform as the Lincoln Aviator. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine with turbocharging and 425 Nm of torque is still present in the Ford Explorer built to Chinese specifications. Power is delivered to the rear wheels or all four via a sophisticated AWD system via a 10-speed automatic transmission.
In terms of style, the front has a much bigger grille, new LED headlights that are joined by an LED strip, and thinner bumper intakes. On the bonnet, there is also an Explorer logo.
Another change is a new set of horizontally mounted LED taillights on the back end. Depending on the trim level, the grille pattern and bumpers will vary, with the ST-Line variant receiving the sportiest makeover. A more pronounced skid-plate with two exhaust pipes was added to the reworked rear bumper.
The Explorer is slightly longer than before, measuring 5,063 mm, as a result of the modified front and back ends.
The internal alterations are more notable. The new 27-inch infotainment touchscreen, which replaces the portrait-oriented unit seen in the Explorer built to US specifications, is the showpiece. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a heads-up display, a B&O audio system, tri-zone climate control, and a variety of ADAS providing it L2+ autonomous capacity are just a few of the further highlights.
The Explorer is manufactured by Changan Ford in China, and a release to the market is anticipated soon. The stylistic and technological upgrades may or may not be included in the US- and EU-spec variants.
It's anticipated that the 2023 Ford Explorer will make its formal premiere at the Chengdu Auto Show in late August.