2020 Ford Explorer Returns to Rear-Wheel Drive Layout

Is the 2020 Ford Explorer Rear-Wheel Drive? 

It has been 30 years since the debut of the very first Ford Explorer, and so much has happened since the very first model rolled off the assembly line in 1990. The first four generations offered rear-wheel drive, but for the last eight years, the Explorer has found notable success as a front-wheel-drive SUV. You may have heard whisperings of yet another change in direction for the new Explorer’s drivetrain. The answer is yes – the 2020 Ford Explorer has switched back to a rear-wheel-drive platform for its sixth generation. We apologize for the whiplash, but Ford makes a great case for the swap. 

Read More: 2020 Ford Explorer MPG Ratings by Trim Level

Why Did the Sixth-Generation Ford Explorer Switch to Rear-Wheel Drive? 

Ford’s engineers say that the rear-drive chassis offers a newfound sense of balance thanks to its improved weight distribution, and Explorer loyalists that have test driven the sixth-generation vehicle concur. Combine the new rear-wheel-drive architecture with the new unibody platform and longitudinally-mounted engine and we see the new platform mimics the layout found in many luxury SUVs. All-wheel drive is still available on select 2020 Explorer trim levels and configurations.

2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid profile

The trade to rear-wheel drive also enables a wave of numerous other bumper-to-bumper improvements such as: 

  • New sportier, more athletic design 
  • Improved on- and off-road capability 
  • Increase in maximum towing capacity by 600 lbs. 
  • More passenger space than ever before  

Read More: 2020 Ford Explorer Trim Level Comparison

Test Drive the 2020 Ford Explorer near Atlanta, GA 

We want you to experience the difference for yourself. Drivers in Atlanta and the surrounding area can find a vast selection of new Ford vehicles at the Akins Ford dealership in Winder, GA. You can shop from Georgia’s largest selection of new Ford vehicles in our online inventory, schedule your test drive appointment online or reach out to our dealership team for more information on the all-new 2020 Ford Explorer midsize SUV.