What type of engines do Ford Explorers have?
The Ford Explorer lineup centers on three main engine families: a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder, a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 (including a high-output variant for the ST), and a 3.3-liter V6 Hybrid powertrain. Availability varies by trim and model year.
Ford has tuned the Explorer for a balance of everyday practicality and performance, while adding a hybrid option to improve fuel economy on family-oriented models. This article outlines the current engine options, what they deliver in horsepower and torque, and how they appear across trims and model years.
Current engine options
Here is a quick snapshot of the engines you’re likely to encounter in recent Explorer models. Availability depends on trim level, drivetrain, and market.
- 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged inline-4 — about 300 horsepower and roughly 310-320 lb-ft of torque. Standard on base and many mid-range trims, valued for a strong, efficient balance of power.
- 3.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged V6 — about 365 horsepower and around 380 lb-ft of torque in most configurations; the Explorer ST tunes this engine to about 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque for higher performance.
- 3.3-liter V6 Hybrid — about 318 horsepower combined with electric assist, and roughly 322 lb-ft of torque, available on Explorer Hybrid models for improved fuel economy.
Engine availability and output can vary by year and region. If you’re shopping, check the exact specifications for your trim and model year to confirm which engine is included.
Performance-focused variants
ST and off-road-oriented trims
The Explorer ST uses the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 with sports-tuned enhancements to deliver around 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, paired with a performance-oriented suspension and styling. For buyers seeking rugged capability without sacrificing comfort, trims like Timberline offer higher ground clearance and off-road tuning while retaining the 2.3-liter EcoBoost as the standard engine.
Hybrid emphasis and efficiency
The hybrid option combines Ford’s 3.3-liter V6 with an electric motor to deliver smoother acceleration and better fuel economy, especially on long highway drives. The hybrid is favored by families and commuters who want to reduce fuel costs without sacrificing seating or towing capability.
Summary
Across its current lineup, the Ford Explorer offers three primary powertrain options: the 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder for a balance of performance and efficiency, the 3.0L EcoBoost V6 for stronger performance, and the 3.3L V6 Hybrid for improved fuel economy. The top-performing ST model represents the peak horsepower, while trim- and region-specific variations mean exact outputs can differ by year and market.
