Ford Gives 2016 Explorer SUV a Mid-Cycle Facelift with New Turbo Engines

Our spy shooters have tracked down a disguised prototype of the upcoming

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by John Halas

October 20, 2014 at 20:37

Our spy shooters have tracked down a disguised prototype of the upcoming 2016 Ford Explorer SUV that gains a proper facelift five years after its debut.

What’s partially visible on this tester is the restyled front end with new headlamp units positioned on the corners of the revamped grille, just above the re-sculpted bumper that sports new fog lamps mounted much higher than the circular ones on the current model.

Around the sides, the only differences appear to be the revised door and side skirt trims, while at the back, the facelifted Explorer gets new light clusters, tailgate and bumper designs.

We’ve yet to see the interior of the 2016MY, but Ford is expected to update the cabin with improvements to the styling, décor and possibly the infotainment system as well.

We also hear that the 2016 Explorer will get new powertrains. These should include Ford’s redesigned 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine with more power and better fuel-economy than the current 240hp 2.0L unit, along with the new turbo’d 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost delivering more than 300hp. Unlike the current unit, the new 2.0L EcoBoost will be available with all-wheel drive.

The 2016 Explorer will launch next year.

Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops