Does Ford make a 2WD Explorer?
The short answer is no. Ford does not offer a traditional two-wheel-drive Explorer in the current US lineup; buyers choose between Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) as the standard setup or Intelligent 4WD for enhanced traction.
In more detail: The Explorer today is marketed as a unibody mid-size SUV with two primary drivetrain choices. There isn’t a separate RWD option in recent model years for the U.S. market. Instead, Ford lists drivetrain options as FWD or Intelligent 4WD, with the latter providing automatic four-wheel torque distribution and multiple drive modes to handle varying weather and terrain. Always verify the exact configuration on the window sticker or dealer build sheet for the model year you’re considering.
Current drive options for the Explorer
Here is how the drivetrain choices are typically presented on recent Explorers sold in the United States.
- Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) — standard on base trims; powers the front wheels for efficiency and interior packaging.
- Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System — available on most trims; an all-wheel-drive setup that can engage all four wheels and offers multiple drive modes for weather and terrain.
Note that Ford uses FWD vs Intelligent 4WD terminology rather than a 2WD vs 4WD label. The exact drivetrain is shown on the model’s window sticker and varies by year and trim.
What this means for shoppers
The practical takeaway is that there isn’t a dedicated 2WD/RWD Explorer in today’s lineup. If you want the lighter efficiency of two-wheel drive, choose an Explorer with FWD; if you need maximum traction in adverse conditions, opt for Intelligent 4WD. Some trims may include AWD as standard or optional depending on the model year and regional market.
Summary
Ford does not offer a true 2WD Explorer in its current lineup. The available configurations are Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and Intelligent 4WD, with the latter providing all-wheel-drive capability and terrain management features. Always confirm the drivetrain on the exact model year with a dealer or the official Ford spec sheet.
