The 2019 Ford Explorer is a bit of a jack-of-all-trades but master of none, offering plentiful cargo space and solid performance with the right engine, but feeling outdated and basic overall.
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A Quick Overview of the 2019 Ford Explorer
- Five trim levels were offered on the 2019 Explorer, including the Base model, XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum. Pricing on the used market in 2021 ranges between $25,874 and $44,736.
- Three engine options were offered in the 2019 Explorer. Base, XLT, and Limited models could be had with a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 or 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Sport and Platinum models featured a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with standard all-wheel drive. All models featured a six-speed automatic transmission.
- Poor fuel economy let the 2019 Explorer down. Naturally aspirated V6 models claim 18-20 mpg combined, turbocharged four-cylinder models get 21-22 mpg combined, and twin-turbo V6 versions consume 18 mpg on the combined cycle.
- The 2019 Explorer performed poorly in IIHS crash testing, scoring “Marginal” and “Poor” results on the small overlap front test for the driver and passenger sides respectively. The NHTSA still awarded it a five-star safety rating, however.
- Overall, the Explorer’s rivals offer far more in the way of safety technology and fully-expanded cargo space. However, the Explorer has the edge when it comes to the performance offered by Sport and Platinum models.
2019 Ford Explorer is Available in Five Unique Trim Levels
For the 2019 Explorer range, a total of five different trim levels were on offer. The base model simply goes as the Explorer, while from there you can step up to the XLT, Limited, Sport, and Platinum trims. Only a very small number of changes were made to the range for 2019, with few concerning standard equipment.
In addition to the five standard trim levels, two new options packages were made available for 2019, the fifth-generation Explorer’s final year on sale. Here’s a brief but detailed run-down of what each model in the range offers as standard, and where those packages fit in.
Explorer Base Trim Lacks Creature Comforts but Comes with LED Headlights & Backup Camera Standard
Available with the 3.5-liter Duratec engine as standard and the 2.3-liter EcoBoost as an option, the Base Explorer certainly presents itself as the most basic in the range. Black plastic door handles and body cladding, and basic 18-inch five-spoke wheels give it a dialed-down look. Inside, basic cloth seat upholstery and a polyurethane steering wheel feature, which along with its otherwise basic interior trim can make it feel a bit cheap.
A small and dated 4.2-inch center screen for its SYNC infotainment system along with basic single-zone manual climate controls only compound this basic interior feeling. It does feature some welcome convenience features like an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, automatic LED headlights, and a rearview camera to bring some value though.
Explorer XLT Adds Exterior Styling & Convenience Features & Offers Several Special Editions
Moving to the XLT trim marks quite the visual step-up for the Explorer. Body-colored door handles, chrome grill and bodyside cladding inserts, and silver roof rails and skid plates boost appearances. Different 18-inch five-split-spoke wheels are standard on 4WD models, while the base model’s wheels remain on FWD versions.
Inside, a 10-way power driver’s seat and six-way passenger seat are now standard. Models featuring the 201A and 202A equipment groups also boast an upgraded eight-inch SYNC 3 touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote engine start, and a powered tailgate. 202A models also feature heated front seats and a newly introduced ActiveX seating material.
One of the two new interior packages for the 2019 Explorer was available on the XLT model, the Desert Copper Appearance Package, which added 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, chrome mirror caps, and an Ebony Black leather/vinyl interior with Copper inserts on the seats and door trims. An existing Sport Appearance package that adds 20-inch Magnetic gray wheels, Ebony Black exterior highlights, and an Ebony Black leather interior is also available.
Explorer Limited Comes Standard with 20″ Wheels, Adds Heated/Cooled First & Second-row Seats
For mid-pack Limited models, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine was made standard. Heavy-duty brakes were also added both front and rear. Chrome exterior highlights including the door handles, roof rails, and rear bumper step pad differentiated its looks. Standard 20-inch Luster Nickel-painted wheels completed its upgraded looks.
Inside, wood trim and perforated leather seating was fitted, along with ambient interior lighting. Heated and cooled front seats and heated second-row seats were added. A memory function was added to the driver’s seat, and a power-operated steering column was included. Power-folding third-row seats were also included as standard.
Those looking at the Limited model could also opt for the 2019-exclusive Limited Luxury Package. This added 20-inch machined aluminum wheels, chrome mirror caps, leather door trim inserts, multi-contour Nirvana Leather seats with Active Motion massage function up front, and an upgraded leather steering wheel.
Explorer Sport is Performance-inspired with Upgraded Suspension & Twin-turbo EcoBoost V6
The 2019 Explorer Sport marks the biggest change in the range thus far. The sole engine option offered was the powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. A sport-tuned suspension was also fitted. High gloss black exterior highlights gave it a tougher look, as did quad exhaust pipes, tinted headlights and taillights, and 20-inch machined aluminum wheels. Dark Tarnish-painted wheels were also available.
Red accent stitching was added to its leather seats inside, and illuminated scuff plates and satin chrome trim also transformed the inside. A 10-way power-adjustable passenger seat was added. Paddle shifters were also fitted. Second-row bucket seats with a center console could also be fitted as an option in place of the standard bench. A rear-seat entertainment system was also optionally available.
Explorer Platinum Offers Unmatched Luxury & Performance, Including Active Motion ‘Massaging’ Front Seats
Sitting at the top of the range, the Platinum came standard with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine but featured more creature comforts than could be found on Limited or Sport. Satin chrome exterior highlights gave it a smarter, classier look. The grille design was unique, as was the 20-inch wheel design with a machined face and Dark Tarnish-painted pockets.
A twin-panel moonroof was fitted as standard, with it only optional on lower trim levels. Power-adjustable pedals and a heated steering wheel with real wood accents were also fitted. The Active Motion massage function was added to the front seats. Nirvana leather upholstery with quilted inserts was standard, along with real aluminum and ash wood interior trim. The rear bucket seats and entertainment system still remained optional.
How Much Does a 2019 Ford Explorer Cost?
When the 2019 Ford Explorer was new, prices started at $32,365 (MSRP) for the very cheapest V6 FWD Base model, reaching all the way up to $55,160 for the top-spec Platinum. However, in just a couple of years since rolling off the showroom floor, Explorers have taken a hit in value, meaning you can pick one up for a competitive price.
Kelley Blue Book shows a Base model with about 42,000 miles to cost between $26,000 to $29,000, depending on how it’s optioned. Add about $1,600 for AWD. Upgrade to the XLT with 4WD for around $31,800 to $35,400.
As for the Limited, 4WD models should be easy to find in the $34,100 to $38,000 range. For similar creature comforts to the Limited but with the twin-turbo V6 engine, the Sport should run an extra $3,000 or so.
If only the best will do, a decked-out,4WD Platinum with its standard twin-turbo EcoBoost should come in between $40,000 to $44,500.
One interesting point to note with used values, the value of 2.3-liter EcoBoost-equipped models falls further than that of the standard Duratec V6 models. Despite the turbo-four being an $895 option when new, it typically brings around the same amount less than the equivalent V6. This makes it a bit of a steal on the used market, then.
Ford’s Certified Pre-owned Program Adds Peace of Mind to 2019 Explorer
Although 2019 Ford Explorers, at this point in time, are only a couple of years old and lightly used as a result, you can get a good deal by buying used, rather than a new model. With a depreciation of between 20-25% across the range, the savings by purchasing a two-year-old model can dip into the tens of thousands.
Buying one of this age means that it would still potentially be covered by the three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty the cars were sold with new, depending of course on the mileage. The original powertrain warranty of five years/60,000 miles would likely also apply.
For those not wanting to risk it by purchasing from a private buyer, Ford offers its own Blue Advantage certified pre-owned program. Gold Certified models, which include any Ford up to six years old with 80,000 miles, come with an additional 12-month/12,000-mile comprehensive warranty, seven-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and complimentary 24/7 roadside assistance.
2019 Ford Explorer Engine Options & Official EPA Fuel Economy Figures
For 2019, three different gas engine options were offered for the Explorer, all of which have featured in other Ford vehicles, including Lincoln and older Mazda products. All of them were paired with six-speed ‘SelectShift’ automatic transmissions as standard.
3.5L Duratec V6 is a Solid Base Engine with Plenty of Power
With its use dating back to 2007 and featuring as the base engine in even the F-150 pickup, this naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 produces 290 hp at a peaky 6,500 rpm, while torque is pinned at 255 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm in this application.
As Motor Reviewer notes, this engine features all-aluminum construction with an open-deck block. Its cylinder heads feature dual overhead camshafts, driven by a timing chain, with four valves per cylinder. Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive is available.
As for fuel economy, expect around 17 around town and 24 at highway speeds with FWD models, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). AWD models drop by one city and two highway mpg.
2.3L EcoBoost Four-cylinder Offers Exceptional Fuel Economy & Decent Power
The next step up in the Explorer range ironically marks a step down in size. Although this EcoBoost engine only features four cylinders and displaces 2.3-litres, thanks to its turbocharger it offers far more torque with 310 lb.-ft. at a lower 3,000 rpm. Peak power is down only slightly, with it sat at 280 hp at 5,600 rpm. No wonder, then, that it’s also used in the sporty Mustang EcoBoost, and Focus ST and RS hatchbacks.
Like the Duratec base engine, this smaller EcoBoost unit features all-aluminum construction. It uses direct fuel injection. Again, both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are available with this engine.
The 2.3L is surely the winner in terms of fuel economy ratings, sitting at an impressive 19 city and 27 highway, dropping to 18/23 for AWD models.
3.5L EcoBoost V6 is Exceptionally Fun, Especially for a Family-oriented SUV
The most powerful engine option available in the Explorer, the direct-injection EcoBoost V6 was exclusive to the Sport and Platinum trims. All-wheel drive came as standard with it, and its transmission featured paddle shifters for better driver control.
Producing 365 hp at 5,500 rpm and 350 lb.-ft. torque at 3,500 rpm, TestDrivenTV notes that the twin-turbocharged engine has been detuned compared to in other Ford and Lincoln Models where it makes as much as 380 hp. This is to improve reliability, as the Explorer’s transaxle couldn’t handle more power than this without issues.
As the most potent engine, the 3.5L EcoBoost is also the thirstiest, getting an EPA-rated 16 mpg on city streets, and 22 while at highway speeds.
How Well Does a 2019 Ford Explorer Perform?
Being a three-row family SUV, performance isn’t exactly the Explorer’s main aim, but with a number of drivetrain options in the range, not all Explorers are equal.
Auto Blog notes in a review of the 2019 Explorer that base 3.5-liter Duratec V6 models can get from 0-60 mph in a stately 8.5 seconds. This performance is described as being “quick enough around town, but on a winding road under acceleration between the curves, there’s less torque at lower engine speeds.”
As for the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, Auto Blog claims it has “sharper acceleration with good low end grunt, so it spurts away from corners.” The site also claims, “If you’re the least bit enthusiastic about driving, you need this engine.”
The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 of the Sport and Platinum models is the one you really need if you’re looking for some grunt. This 365 hp engine can get the big Explorer from 0-60 mph in just 5.7 seconds – a time that rivals that of a hot hatch.
2019 Ford Explorer’s Optional Power-folding Rear Seats Reveal a Lot of Cargo Space
Cargo space is something that the 2019 Explorer certainly isn’t lacking in any way, with it offering one of the largest cargo areas in the class. With all three rows of seats still in place, an impressive 21.0 cu. ft. of cargo space is on offer, putting it among the class leaders. Fold down the second row, and you’ll be rewarded with 43.9 cu. ft. of space. With all three rows folded flat, there’s a cavernous 81.7 cu. ft. of cargo space.
To make life easier when it comes to reconfiguring the cargo area dependent on your needs, power-folding third-row seats are available as standard on some trim levels. A power-operated tailgate with foot-motion activation is also available, making it easy to access the cargo area while holding multiple shopping bags, or larger items that require both hands to hold.
How Safe is a 2019 Ford Explorer?
When the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash-tested the 2019 Explorer, they found safety wasn’t exactly the aging model’s strong suit. In four of the key crash tests at least – moderate overlap front, side, roof strength, and head restraint and seat safety – it managed a “Good” rating.
However, in the driver’s side small overlap front test, it only managed a “Marginal” rating. Worse, still, in the passenger-side small overlap front test, it was rated as “Poor”, the lowest rating the IIHS hands out. “A likely risk of injury to the right hip and a possible risk to the left lower leg” was cited as a primary reason for this rating.
Additionally, the headlights were deemed “Poor” due to inadequate high-beam distance coverage. The LATCH child seat anchor system was deemed “Average” due to the anchors being too deep in the seats and hard to find. Its crash prevention systems were also only deemed adequate.
Crash testing was also performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), who awarded it a five-star rating overall. However, for driver safety in a frontal impact, it only received four stars. For rollover protection, it also only received four stars.
2019 Ford Explorer: Technology & Convenience Features
While base-model Ford Explorer models were incredibly basic, sporting a tiny 4.2-inch screen in the center stack, stepping up in the range awarded buyers with far more features. An eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system was fitted as standard to most trim levels. This ran the SYNC 3 operating system and offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Both 390-watt and 500-watt Sony sound systems were available depending on the trim level. A 180-degree frontal camera system with a split view and camera washer was also offered on Sport and Platinum models.
In terms of safety equipment, the Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert was made standard on XLT with the 201A or 202A equipment package, Limited, Sport, and Platinum models for 2019. Previously, it was only included as an option in the Ford Safe and Smart Package. AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, Curve Control, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System was also fitted as standard.
Given it was the fifth-generation Explorer’s final year on sale, no new technology was introduced to the model given an all-new one was around the corner. It’s clear though that, given its age, it was a bit behind the ball when it came to some tech.
2019 Ford Explorer Exterior & Interior Color Options
Exterior Color Options for 2019 Explorer
For 2019, a total of eight exterior colors were offered on the Explorer.
Interior Color Options in the 2019 Explorer
Interior color options depended on the trim level of each model, and were available as follows:
- Explorer Base: Medium Stone Cloth
- XLT: Medium Stone/Medium Light Stone Cloth, Ebony Black Cloth, Ebony Black Leather
- Limited: Ebony Black Perforated Leather, Medium Light Stone Perforated Leather, Medium Soft Ceramic Nirvana Leather
- Sport: Ebony Black Leather with Red Stitching
- Platinum: Ebony Black Nirvana Leather, Medium Soft Ceramic Nirvana Leather
Vehicle History Real Owner Reviews
What Critics Say
While journalists and bloggers today have ignored the 2019 Explorer and haven’t really given it a second look, here on Vehicle History, our real owner reviews give an insight as to how these vehicles are holding up today. Overall, Vehicle History users have scored it 4.62 on average, based on 191 reviews.
In a June 2021 five-star review, Melissa T. says of her 2019 Explorer XLT: “Great vehicle, have had zero issues with it and have owned for 2 years! Love the amount of room it has! Would definitely recommend the explorer to anyone with more than one child. Very dependable vehicle, best car I have ever had. Will say I would like it if the screen for the radio was a little bigger or even touch screen; I know they have that in the 2020 but it would have been nice to have.”
In a four-star review also from June this year, Craig C. said this of his 2019 Explorer Base: “My vehicle has been nothing short of spectacular. I have never had any problems with it and look forward to many more years of driving with ford. One thing I would like is a bit more space in my car. The space I have now is okay but a little more would be nice.”
Karli B. only gave the Explorer XLT three stars in her April 2021 review, claiming that despite being a three-row model, it can’t really handle a family of six. “Wish it was a little bigger,” she says. “The third row does not have enough leg room to fit anyone but a three-year-old. Wish it had captain seats. It drives really good though. The gas mileage is great. I haven’t had any performance issues. Not great for a family of six.”
In May 2021, Patty H. spoke positively of their Explorer XLT in a four-star review, though, saying: “No problems. Performs well on the hilly roads I travel. It has been very reliable. Seats are comfortable. Radio is hard to figure out. I wish the heat controls had the same on-off push button as the radio. Cup holders are in a good spot but need to be slightly larger.”
2019 Ford Explorer: Maintenance & Depreciation
In terms of maintenance costs, Edmunds’ True Cost to Own system predicts that standard 3.5-liter Duratec models will cost roughly $6,840 in maintenance over five years ($1,368 per year). 2.3-liter EcoBoost versions are predicted to cost slightly more in maintenance at $6,940 over five years ($1,388 per year). The 3.5-liter EcoBoost versions mark a big price hike in maintenance costs though, with it estimated to cost $7,107 over that same five-year period ($1,421 per year).
However, Car Edge estimates that the four-digit repair bills aren’t likely to arrive until the car is seven years old. From there, they’re expected to amount from $1,216 in year seven, all the way up to $1,906 for year 12. Even still, Car Edge notes that it is above the industry average for repair costs accrued over the first 10 years of ownership. It’s also 5.1% more likely than its main competitors to require a major repair in that time, with a 26.6% likelihood overall.
Known Issues, Recalls & Problems with the 2019 Ford Explorer
Thus far, only two relatively minor recalls have been issued for the 2019 Explorer by the NHTSA. The first, issued in August 2019, pertained to the reclining mechanism on manually-adjusted front seats. An issue with some mechanisms meant they had reduced levels of strength and may not adequately restrain the occupant in the event of an accident. A wide array of Ford vehicles including the 2018 and 2019 Explorer were included in this 639,137-vehicle recall.
The other recall which specifically related to the 2016-2019 Ford Explorer was issued in May 2021. An issue with the retention pins for the roof rail covers could loosen and cause them to detach from the vehicle. Although a relatively minor issue, it affected 616,967 Explorers.
Given the 2019 Explorer is only a two-year-old car, not that many issues have had time to crop up just yet.
However, CoPilot reports two common issues that have surfaced, and both are rather serious. The first is one many other Ford vehicles have faced before, transmission issues. The site notes that owners on many online owners forums have complained of premature transmission failure, which can come on suddenly and isn’t cheap to fix.
The other serious issue fifth-generation Explorer models can face is exhaust leaks, which can be incredibly dangerous and can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Roadshow noted that a report found improper welds in the exhaust system were causing the issue, which was largely rectified for 2017 models onwards. If it does come up, it’s not a cheap fix though, with Repair Pal estimating a cost of between $780 and $846.
2019 Ford Explorer vs. Subaru Ascent, VW Atlas, & Honda Pilot
The Explorer stood out as being outdated in its class in 2019, with the fifth-generation model entering its eighth year against rivals that included all-new models. Here’s how it stacked up against some of the newer rivals in the class.
2019 Subaru Ascent Lacks Engine Options of Explorer but Bests its Storage Capacity
Newly introduced for the 2019 model year, the Ascent filled the void left by the slow-selling Tribeca. Compared to the Explorer’s three engine options, the Ascent offered just one. A 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four, it produced 260 hp and 277 lb.-ft. torque, meaning it lagged behind its closest equivalent in the Explorer range, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost.
However, all-wheel drive was offered standard on the Ascent, with power sent through a CVT automatic. Motor Trend found it to easily out-perform the likes of the Duratec V6 Explorer, though, with a 0-60 mph sprint as quick as 6.9 seconds. The engine was also described as being “surprisingly able” by one of the site’s testers.
The third-row seat room in the Ascent has been noted as being fine for children and shorter adults, and the sliding second-row allows for greater versatility inside. With all seats folded flat, it offers more cargo space as well, with 86.5 cu. ft. at most. However, with the third-row in place, there’s only 17.8 cu. ft. on offer. There’s plenty of interior storage as well, with as many as 19 cupholders included. Safety is also a strong point, with it awarded an IIHS Top Safety Pick recommendation.
2019 Volkswagen Atlas is Roomier than Explorer & Features a Longer Warranty
Like the Explorer, the Atlas offered both a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, in this case displacing 2.0-liters and producing 235 hp, and a naturally aspirated six-cylinder, this time a 3.6-liter VR6 making 276 hp. However, no turbocharged six-cylinder was offered, meaning it can’t compete when it comes to performance.
First introduced for 2018, the Atlas was much larger inside, offering as much as 96.8 cu. ft. with all rear seats folded flat – a truly huge space. A comparable 20.6 cu. ft. was available with the third-row seats up, but this still slightly trailed the ageing Explorer.
A six-year/72,000-mile warranty offered by VW meant it doubled the Ford’s coverage, which is an important consideration for buyers of lightly-used models such as these.
2019 Honda Pilot Offers More Standard Safety Features than Explorer but can’t Touch its Performance Figures
Just one engine was on offer in the 2019 Honda Pilot – a 3.5-liter V6 with 280 hp – meaning the range doesn’t offer as much flexibility or performance as the Explorer. A more advanced and economy-enhancing nine-speed automatic transmission was available in the Pilot, however. Timing belt issues were identified in 2019 models, it should be noted, but it was quickly recalled and the issue rectified.
Safety was something the Pilot had been praised for, and like the Ascent, it was given an IIHS Top Safety Pick recommendation. Particular praise was heaped on the Pilot for the Honda Sensing active safety technology suite being made standard on all models in the range, including the very cheapest.
When it comes to cargo space, it lagged behind all of the competition, bar the Mazda CX-9. Just 16.5 cu. ft. was on offer with the third-row in place, although a maximum of 83.8 cu. ft. with all rear seats folded down actually manages to outclass the Explorer.
Should You Buy a 2019 Ford Explorer?
By the end of its life cycle in 2019, the fifth-generation Explorer was clearly feeling its age and lagging behind the competition. While cargo space was one of its strong suits, as was performance with the available twin-turbo V6 engine option, it sorely lacked when it came to standard technology and safety equipment.
Transmission issues for many Fords of this era, including the Explorer, can present a potential and unexpected nightmare down the track if they were to crop up. However, it seems more likely that it should be decently reliable at least in coming years. Its safety is also rather concerning, particularly after seeing its poor performance in IIHS crash testing.
With plenty of newer rivals to choose from that offer more tech and better fuel economy, the 2019 Explorer struggles to stand out. Unless you can get one at a particularly good price, or you’re after the unique twin-turbocharged V6 version for its strong performance, we’d suggest looking to its rivals for a better bet if a 2019 model is what you’re after.
Photos: Ford, Subaru, Volkswagen, Honda
