2019 Ford Explorer Finally Spied in Close-to-Production Form

Jason Siu
by Jason Siu

Ford has finally moved onto testing a 2019 Explorer prototype that looks closer to a production model.

Spy photographers previously caught a 2019 Ford Explorer mule testing, but this is the first time they’ve managed to catch it in prototype form. Seen testing in Dearborn, Michigan, the 2019 Ford Explorer prototype previews an evolutionary design for the popular SUV. Up front, we can see a new grille, headlights, fog lights and hood, although they’re all heavily camouflaged. You can, however, get a hint of a similar design that Ford has been incorporating on all its new crossover and SUV models.

For the rear, there’s an updated tailgate and new tail lights accompanying the new rear bumper. The big news is that the 2019 Ford Explorer will ride on the automaker’s D6 platform that will also underpin various Lincoln models.

SEE ALSO: Ford Explorer vs Honda Pilot

Reports say the D6 platform is flexible enough to accommodate both front- and rear-wheel-drive vehicles, with available all-wheel drive. That means there’s a possibility the new Ford Explorer could go rear-wheel drive.

Under the hood, expect to see the latest EcoBoost engines and like the recently announced new Ford Mustang, the Explorer will likely lose its naturally aspirated V6 engine. Look for the new SUV to debut next fall or early 2018 before it goes on sale in summer 2018.

Discuss this story on our Ford Explorer Forum

Jason Siu
Jason Siu

Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.

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  • Jeff Barath Jeff Barath on Dec 11, 2017

    I have the "last of the truck body Explorers--the 2010"...and I love it. I will NOT buy a new Explorer because its on a car body (Taurus I believe?)...and it looks like the 2019 prototype will remain as a "car".... Ford made a HUGE mistake taking the Explorer OFF of a truck body.....my replacement now has to be either a Chevy Tahoe or ? PS The Expedition is too big for a substitute....

  • Mark Wilkinson Mark Wilkinson on Feb 28, 2018

    What are the rumored Eco-boost and transmission changes? I'm totally averse to being the guy who gets to wring out brand new tech but I need a new vehicle and may just go with the 2018 model and get a year-end deal.

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