The Platinum trim level is distinguished from the others by its grille mesh, wheels and tailpipes.
Ford continues to test its next-gen 2020 Ford Explorer out on Michigan’s roads. The Blue Oval does not cover this vehicle’s roof, just like the spy shots of the previous test mule. These photos show the Platinum badge at the rear of the SUV indicating that it is the top-of-the-line model for those looking for luxury in their family hauler. Comparable to the Explorer that we last saw (see below). The Platinum (left), has a different grille mesh to the XLT model (right), as well as a more aggressive lower fascia that is hexagonal in shape.
The profile of the two models is almost identical, except for the wheel designs. Although the rear looks very similar, the Platinum has quad exhausts that have a pair of pipes coming from each end. Ford’s designers have chosen to make evolutionary styling tweaks rather than making revolutionary changes, despite creating a new Explorer generation. However, it is still a beautiful SUV. The new Explorer’s cabin is still unknown. Ford must equip the Explorer with large infotainment screens and plenty of driver assistance tech to keep it in line with the rest of the segment.
Ford’s D6 platform is the new platform for the Explorer. The base models will be rear-wheel driven, but buyers who need more traction can get all-wheel drives. The powertrain modifications are not yet clear but the ST variant will be joining the lineup with a 3.0-liter twin turbo V6 that produces at least 400 horsepower (298kW). 2020 Explorer will debut sometime in 2019. Although we don’t expect it to debut as soon as the North American International Auto Show (Detroit) in January 2019, the Blue Oval might surprise us.