Was the Ford Explorer ever front-wheel drive?
No, the Ford Explorer has never been offered with a front-wheel drive configuration. The Ford Explorer has always been a rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicle since its introduction in 1990.
The Ford Explorer's Drivetrain History
The Ford Explorer was introduced in 1990 as a replacement for the Ford Bronco II. It was designed as a mid-size SUV and has been one of Ford's best-selling and most popular models over the past three decades. From the beginning, the Explorer has been available with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations, but it has never been offered with a front-wheel drive setup.
The Explorer was built on a rear-wheel drive platform, which provided better off-road capability and towing performance compared to a front-wheel drive layout. This rear-wheel drive architecture has remained a core part of the Explorer's design throughout its production run, even as the vehicle has evolved over multiple generations.
Reasons for the Rear-Wheel Drive Design
- Better weight distribution and handling characteristics for an SUV
- Improved towing and off-road capabilities compared to front-wheel drive
- Alignment with the Explorer's intended use as a mid-size SUV for both on-road and off-road driving
- Consistency with the rear-wheel drive layout of the Ford Bronco II, which the Explorer replaced
While some other SUVs and crossovers have transitioned to front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive platforms over the years, the Ford Explorer has steadfastly maintained its rear-wheel drive architecture as a core part of its design and identity. This has helped the Explorer retain its reputation as a capable and versatile mid-size SUV.p>
Is the Ford Explorer XLT front or rear-wheel-drive?
rear-wheel-
Discover the 2024 Ford Explorer XLT, a blend of refined design and advanced technology tailored for the modern driver. This rear-wheel-drive SUV is powered by a robust 2.3L inline-four engine, delivering an impressive performance with efficiency.
What year did Ford Explorer go to front-wheel drive?
2011-2019 Explorer
In a major change, Ford moved the Explorer from a truck-based, rear-wheel-drive body-on-frame platform to a car-based, unitized front-wheel-drive platform. Though still marketed as an SUV, it was now more accurately a crossover.
What are the disadvantages of the Ford Explorer?
Understanding the Disadvantages of the Ford Explorer
However, many buyers' potential concerns are fuel economy, limited third-row space, and lateral handling. Despite the praise for many of the model's generations, the midsize SUV offers an average of 28 mpg, with some models falling to 20 mpg.
What year did Ford make the best Explorer?
The maximum cargo space of this vehicle is 85.8 cu. ft., making it ideal for families on the go. 2018 (Fifth Generation): For those wondering what the best year is to buy a used Ford Explorer, the 2018 and 2019 models are regarded as some of the best due to their advanced technology and dependability.
What does XLT mean on an Explorer?
The 2024 Ford Explorer XLT trim level is an upgrade that builds upon the Explorer base model. As an alternative to its standard cloth upholstery, the trim adds an available ActiveX stain-resistant and easy-to-clean seating material.
Do they make a front-wheel drive Ford Explorer?
Rear-wheel drive remained standard, with part-time four-wheel drive offered as an option, and all-wheel drive was introduced as an option.
Are 2017 Ford Explorers front-wheel drive?
As before, the Explorer is offered in five escalating trim levels: Base, XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum fitted with front-wheel- or all-wheel-drive.
What was the first front-wheel drive Ford?
Taunus P4
Ford introduced front-wheel drive to its European customers in 1962 with the Taunus P4. The 1965 Triumph 1300 was designed for a longitudinal engine with the transmission underneath. Audi has also used a longitudinally mounted engine overhung over the front wheels since the 1970s.
Why did Ford Explorer go to rear-wheel drive?
Why Did the Sixth-Generation Ford Explorer Switch to Rear-Wheel Drive? Ford's engineers say that the rear-drive chassis offers a newfound sense of balance thanks to its improved weight distribution, and Explorer loyalists that have test driven the sixth-generation vehicle concur.
Is 2018 Ford Explorer FWD or RWD?
It makes 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque, and can accelerate the Explorer to 60 miles per hour in about 8.5 seconds, using the standard 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, all-wheel drive is available.
