2019 Ford Explorer Spied, Prototype Hides Big Design Changes

The sixth generation of the Explorer seems to be a tad larger than the model it replaces. This reinforces the idea of a seven-seater configuration, as offered by the current model.

The silhouette of the test cars appears to be close to that of the 2011-launched Explorer and yet you should expect all the heavy camo to conceal important styling changes.

Underneath the skin, we should find the next-generation Ford large vehicle platform. The architecture, which uses the D6 internal code, will make extensive use of aluminum, bringing benefits in terms of both weight reduction and torsional rigidity.

The platform will gift the Explorer with a transverse-engine, FWD-based (AWD will be offered as an option) configuration, as with the model currently found in Ford showrooms.

The engine line-up of the future SUV will kick off with turbo-four, while an also-forced-fed V6 will be offered as an option. A hybrid model is also in the pipeline, promising impressive emission figures for a vehicle this size.

In the transmission department, the most important change will see the six-speed auto found on the current model making room for a nine-speed gearbox. Not only will this improve the MPG ratings of the Explorer, but it will also offer a smoother driving experience.

We're expecting the Blue Oval to introduce the new Explorer next year, with the SUV set to land as a 2019 model. And,  until we get our hands on more details about the SUV, you can check out the Rocky Mountains test session in the piece of TFL Car-provided footage below.