Best in class
Whole-life cost analysis: Electric medium SUVs
Ford’s new medium electric SUV, the Explorer, has more to do with the Volkswagen ID.4 - but can the newest member take the crown against key rivals in this hotly contested sector?
Ford Explorer Martyn Collins
Two billion pounds, that’s what Ford has been very keen to tell us has been invested in the 100-year-old Cologne plant alone, where the new Explorer and incoming Capri will be built. All-new to Ford, but underpinning the Explorer is a modified version of Volkswagen’s MEB EV platform. Probably closest to the VW ID.4 (which we’re also looking at in this comparison) in terms of size, they share a similar wheelbase – but the Explorer is 116mm shorter overall. Most of that’s lopped from the rear, equalling the 470-litre boot – which is 70-odd-litres down on the ID.4, it’s smaller than the Renault Scenic that we’re also covering here, too. Inside things get better for the Ford, as it feels roomy – much the same as
Ford Explorer Select 77kWh
P11D: £45,820 CO2 (tax): 0g/km (2%) BIK 20/40% a month: £15/£30 Range: 374 miles National Insurance: £10.53 First year VED: £0 Subsequent VED: £0 Battery size/power: 77kWh/286hp AFR: 7p
the ID.4 unsurprisingly! The Explorer’s interior also scores high for stowage, and includes the clever ‘Megaconsole’, 17 litres of stowage space under the front central armrest. Plus, there’s also a lockable storage space behind the infotainment screen for valuables. Talking of the Explorer’s central 14.6in touchscreen, it’s sharp, responsive, but
running Ford’s Sync Move software which is a problem. Why? Well, some icons are too small, and you can’t always find your way out of menus easily. Elsewhere, this Ford EV’s driving position is fine and includes a supportive, electrically adjustable driver’s seat with massage function. Move to the boot, and on the plus side, it has no load lip, a height-adjustable floor, 60/40-split rear seats, and a ski hatch.
Interior build quality is the equal of the ID.4, but in our opinion, the Explorer looks smarter. There are harder plastics, like the top of the dashboard, but your eye isn’t drawn to them.
As you’d expect from a Ford, the Explorer is a good drive. With light, but accurate steering, Ford tuned passive suspension (there’s no adaptive option), to make the Explorer more agile than the
Volkswagen – it’s succeeded. It turns in eagerly and contains body lean well. At slow speeds on patchy town roads, the ride is noticeably fidgety. Although this improves the faster you go, but you’ll notice some background shimmy at motorway speeds through the seat and steering wheel.
But the drive is only part of what this Explorer is about. Company car drivers are going to be keener on the 2% BIK charge, 0 g/km emissions, and its 374- mile range. Sadly, the Ford is kicked into third place here with the second- highest depreciation (£25,935).
Residual value: 45% Depreciation: £25,935 Fuel costs: £3,598 SMR: £3,321
53.09p Cost per mile
52 | September/October 2024 |
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