The Ford Explorer Platinum 3.0 V6 AWD Automatic, produced from May 2019 to February 2024, represents the top-tier luxury offering within the sixth generation (2020-2024) of Ford’s iconic Explorer SUV. Positioned as the flagship trim, the Platinum model aimed to compete with premium three-row SUVs from brands like Acura, Buick, and Lincoln. This variant distinguished itself through a powerful twin-turbocharged V6 engine, a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system, and a comprehensive suite of luxury features. It was a key model in Ford’s strategy to recapture market share in the increasingly competitive mid-size SUV segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Explorer |
| Generation | Explorer VI |
| Type (Engine) | Platinum 3.0 V6 (365 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | May, 2019 |
| End of production | February, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 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) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.9 kg/Hp, 170.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 240.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 365 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 123.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 515 Nm @ 3500 rpm (379.84 lb.-ft. @ 3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2956 cm3 (180.39 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 85.4 mm (3.36 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 17 l (17.96 US qt | 14.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2141 kg (4720.1 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 515 l (18.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2485 l (87.76 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 76 l (20.08 US gal | 16.72 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2537 kg (5593.13 lbs.) |
| Length | 5049 mm (198.78 in.) |
| Width | 2004 mm (78.9 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2100 mm (82.68 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2268 mm (89.29 in.) |
| Height | 1775 mm (69.88 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3025 mm (119.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1699 mm (66.89 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1699 mm (66.89 in.) |
| Front overhang | 856 mm (33.7 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1168 mm (45.98 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 208 mm (8.19 in.) |
| Approach angle | 21° |
| Departure angle | 22.3° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 17.7° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission SelectShift |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/65 R18; 255/55 R20; 275/45 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20; 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Explorer Platinum is Ford’s 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, designated as the ‘Dragon’ engine family. This engine utilizes a 60-degree V-angle configuration and employs direct fuel injection combined with twin turbochargers. The twin-turbo setup, featuring low-inertia turbines, minimizes turbo lag and provides a broad torque curve. The engine’s valvetrain features double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased power and efficiency. The engine produces 365 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 515 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. Paired with this engine is a 10-speed automatic transmission (SelectShift), designed to maximize fuel efficiency and provide smooth, responsive shifting. The transmission’s wide gear ratio spread allows the engine to operate in its optimal power band more frequently.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0L EcoBoost V6 and 10-speed automatic combination delivers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the base 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder or the hybrid options. Acceleration is brisk, with the Explorer Platinum feeling confident in both city and highway driving. The 10-speed transmission is generally smooth and responsive, although some drivers have noted occasional hunting for the right gear during moderate acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in various weather conditions. While not a dedicated performance SUV, the Platinum offers ample power for towing and hauling, making it a versatile vehicle for families and those with active lifestyles. The weight of the vehicle (over 4,700 lbs) is noticeable, but the engine’s torque helps to mitigate this.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Explorer Platinum trim came standard with a long list of luxury features. Interior appointments included premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a power-folding third-row seat, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a premium B&O sound system. Standard technology features included Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, power-adjustable pedals, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The Explorer Platinum utilizes an independent front suspension with McPherson struts and a multi-link independent rear suspension, both featuring coil springs and anti-roll bars. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The Platinum model came equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic parking brake with Auto Hold function was also standard. The all-wheel-drive system is primarily front-biased but can dynamically distribute torque to the rear wheels as needed for optimal traction.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Explorer Platinum was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, luxurious interior, and comprehensive feature set. However, some reviewers noted the relatively high price tag and the complexity of the infotainment system. Compared to the base Explorer trims, the Platinum offered a significant upgrade in terms of performance, refinement, and features. Fuel economy, at around 19 mpg combined, was typical for a large SUV with a V6 engine, but lower than the hybrid Explorer options. Reliability reports have been mixed, with some owners reporting issues with the infotainment system and the 10-speed transmission.
Legacy
The Ford Explorer Platinum 3.0 V6 AWD Automatic represents a high point in the sixth-generation Explorer’s evolution. While the model was discontinued in February 2024 with the introduction of the seventh generation, it remains a desirable option in the used car market for buyers seeking a spacious, well-equipped, and powerful SUV. The 3.0L EcoBoost engine, while complex, has proven to be generally durable when properly maintained. The 10-speed transmission, however, has been the subject of some reliability concerns, and potential buyers should be aware of this when considering a used Platinum model. Overall, the Explorer Platinum 3.0 V6 AWD Automatic offers a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and practicality.
