Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Explorer |
| Generation | Explorer V (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 Ti-VCT V6 (290 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 143.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 290 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83 Hp/l |
| Torque | 346 Nm @ 4000 rpm (255.2 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 3496 cm3 (213.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.5 mm (3.64 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.7 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | Ti-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 12.4 l (13.1 US qt | 10.91 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2022 kg (4457.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3130 kg (6900.47 lbs.) |
| Max load | 1108 kg (2442.72 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 595 l (21.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2313 l (81.68 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 907 kg (1999.59 lbs.) |
| Length | 5047 mm (198.7 in.) |
| Width | 2004 mm (78.9 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2096 mm (82.52 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2291 mm (90.2 in.) |
| Height | 1778 mm (70 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2865 mm (112.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 198 mm (7.8 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Approach angle | 15.6° |
| Departure angle | 20.9° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 16.9° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
The 2018-2019 Ford Explorer V, featuring the 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, occupied a central position in the Explorer lineup. This variant was offered during a period when Ford was transitioning the Explorer towards a more modern, unibody construction (fully realized in the subsequent generation). The facelift brought updated styling cues and minor technological enhancements. This particular engine and transmission combination aimed to provide a balance between respectable power for highway passing and towing, and reasonable fuel economy for everyday driving. It was a popular choice for families needing a three-row SUV with a proven track record.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Explorer variant is the 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine. “Ti-VCT” stands for Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing, a technology that allows the engine to optimize valve timing for improved performance and efficiency. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine code is typically associated with the Duratec family of engines. The six-speed automatic transmission, a mainstay in Ford vehicles of this era, was chosen for its smooth operation and reliability. It featured a torque converter for smooth launches and a wide range of gear ratios to optimize both acceleration and fuel economy. The transmission was designed to handle the engine’s 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque effectively.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5L V6 and six-speed automatic combination in the Explorer V delivered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as sporty as some competitors, it provided adequate acceleration for merging onto highways and passing slower traffic. The automatic transmission shifted smoothly, and the gear ratios were well-suited for both city and highway driving. Compared to the base 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, the V6 offered significantly more power and a more refined driving experience. However, it didn’t possess the low-end torque of a turbocharged engine. Compared to higher-trim Explorers equipped with the 3.7L V6, the 3.5L offered a slight improvement in fuel economy, though at a modest power reduction.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.5L V6 automatic Explorer typically came standard with features like Ford’s Sync infotainment system, a rearview camera, and basic safety features such as anti-lock brakes and stability control. Higher trim levels, such as the XLT and Limited, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a power liftgate, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and premium audio systems. Interior upholstery generally consisted of cloth on lower trims and leather on higher trims. Dashboard configurations were relatively consistent across trims, with variations in trim materials and available technology packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Explorer V utilized a front-wheel-drive platform with available all-wheel drive. The front suspension featured an independent McPherson strut design, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The base models typically featured smaller brake rotors compared to the higher trims. Stabilizer bars were included on both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.5L V6 Explorer V received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and respectable performance. However, some critics noted that the fuel economy was not class-leading and that the interior materials could be improved. Compared to competitors like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, the Explorer V offered a more traditional SUV experience with a focus on space and comfort. The 3.5L V6 offered a good balance between power and fuel economy, making it a practical choice for families. Reliability reports generally indicated good long-term reliability, although some owners reported minor issues with the transmission.
Legacy
The 3.5L V6-powered Explorer V remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its proven reliability, spacious interior, and comfortable ride make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a family-friendly SUV. While the engine and transmission are generally durable, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. Common maintenance items include oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and spark plug replacements. The Explorer V represents a transitional period for the Explorer, bridging the gap between traditional body-on-frame SUVs and the more modern unibody designs that followed. It continues to be a recognizable and respected vehicle on American roads.
