Ford Explorer EV 2024 review
Photo: Alexander-93 (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The Ford Explorer EV is the Blue Oval's first European electric car on Volkswagen's MEB platform — a partnership that gave Ford a proven electric toolkit while it developed its own tech. Built in Cologne, it arrived in 2024 with prices from £39,875 and suspension, steering and damping all retuned by Ford of Europe.
Three powertrains are offered. The £39,875 Standard Range pairs a 52 kWh battery with a 168 bhp rear motor for 239 miles and 0–62 mph in 8.7 seconds. Most buyers choose the £45,875 Extended Range RWD: a 77 kWh battery, 282 bhp, 374 miles of official range and a 6.4-second sprint. The £54,975 AWD adds a front motor for 335 bhp, 329 miles and 5.3 seconds. DC charging peaks at 135 kW on RWD cars (10–80% in 28 minutes) and 185 kW on the AWD.
Inside, the party piece is a 14.6-inch portrait touchscreen that slides to reveal a hidden lockable cubby — the 17-litre MegaConsole between the seats swallows a laptop. Select and Premium trims bring matrix LED headlights, massaging driver's seat, a heat pump and the BlueOval Charge Network with access to 36,000 UK charge points. The AWD tows up to 1,200 kg.
Against the VW ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq it shares its bones with, the Explorer stands out with Ford-tuned handling and friendlier pricing. The three-year, 60,000-mile warranty is the weak spot — but as a family EV, it is hard to fault.
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UK price from: £39,875
Specifications
| Battery | 77 kWh (52 kWh standard range) |
| Power | 210 kW (282 bhp) Extended Range RWD |
| 0-62 mph | 6.4 seconds (Extended Range RWD) |
| Top speed | 112 mph |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 374 miles (Extended Range RWD) |
| Charging (DC max) | Up to 135 kW (10–80% in ~28 min) |
| Transmission | Single-speed reduction gear |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive (AWD available) |
Features
- Sliding 14.6-inch touchscreen with hidden lockable cubby
- Up to 374 miles of WLTP range (Extended Range RWD)
- 135 kW DC rapid charging: 10–80% in 28 minutes
- 17-litre MegaConsole centre storage bin
- Matrix LED headlights and massaging driver's seat (Premium)
- Heat pump fitted as standard
- BlueOval Charge Network: 36,000+ UK charge points
- Up to 1,200 kg towing (AWD model)
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabin pollen filter | £24.99 | Replace every 2 years |
| Front wiper blades (pair) | £27.99 | Flat aero blades |
| 12V auxiliary battery | £129.99 | AGM type |
| Front brake pads (set) | £64.99 | Low wear thanks to regen |
| Rear brake discs (pair) | £119.99 | Inspect for corrosion at services |
| Type 2 charging cable (7.4 kW) | £149.99 | 5-metre; for public AC posts |
Pros
- Excellent 374-mile range on the Extended Range
- Sharper handling than its VW platform siblings
- Clever hidden storage behind the touchscreen
- Strong standard kit including heat pump
Cons
- Only a three-year, 60,000-mile warranty
- Firm ride on 20-inch wheels
- Some VW parts-bin switchgear inside
- Infotainment menus can be fiddly
Frequently asked questions
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