The 2021 Ford Explorer comes with multiple engine options, but each option will give you between 300 and 400 horsepower. Whether you are interested in hefty towing capabilities, a high amount of power, or energy-saving hybrid options, there is an Explorer engine that is right for you. Let’s take a look at what the 2021 Explorer has to offer.
Four Engine Options
The four engines you can choose from include the 2.3L EcoBoost, the 3.3L Hybrid Engine, the 3.0L EcoBoost, and the ST twin-turbo 3.0L EcoBoost with sport tuning. Each engine is going to give you different advantages depending on what type of drive you want and the power you need. With a possible 5,600 pounds of towing capacity, the engine choice is very important.
The 2.3L EcoBoost
The 2.3L EcoBoost is an economical choice as it is the least expensive upfront. The 2.3L EcoBoost also offers the best fuel economy of the non-hybrid engine options, with 27 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway when equipped with rear-wheel drive. It produces 300 HP, 310 lb-ft of torque, and can tow up to 5,300 lbs. Because of the capabilities and the savings the 2.3L EcoBoost offers drivers, this engine option will make a great addition to any commuter/family exploration vehicle combination.
The Hybrid Option
The 3.3L Hybrid Engine is the only hybrid engine available for the Ford Explorer. This engine gives you access to a little more power with 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque. However, this engine is the weakest when it comes to towing capacity, with a maximum weight of 5,000 lbs. But, the stellar fuel economy more than makes up for the loss of towing capability. This hybrid engine can get up to 27 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway with rear-wheel drive. It is also worth mentioning that this hybrid has been built to be as off-road capable as the straight gas engine Explorer versions. So you will still be able to visit all the non-paved locations in the hybrid that you could with the gas engines.
The 3.0L Engines
The 3.0L EcoBoost is the powerhouse engine for the 2021 Ford Explorer. This engine gives you the most towing at 5,600 lbs, and it also comes standard with the Intelligent 4WD system. While the Intelligent 4WD system is available with the other engines, it only comes standard with the 3.0L EcoBoost engine. This is good to know because if you explore areas that need that 4WD option often, then the extra power of the 3.0L EcoBoost is your most preferable setup.
The Platinum trim 3.0L EcoBoost has 365 HP and 380 lb-ft of torque. The ST version takes the 3.0L EcoBoost and adds some special tuning to give you even more power with 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, as well as a top speed of 143 MPH. The ST trim offers special suspension upgrades that will give you better control over all that extra power. The ST is for those who want the extra speed without missing out on a great family-friendly SUV.
Transmission
All four engine variations are coupled with a 10-speed automatic with selectShift capability. This transmission will be smoother than more traditional transmissions and will give you more of the power you need across the board than a 6-speed transmission will. A smoother ride means more comfort for you and better abilities for the Explorer.