Ford Explorer EcoBoost Smokes Jeep SRT Trackhawk On the Track
Guys, the Ford Explorer can seriously haul ass.
When we came across this race by Wheels, we were a little dubious. Brilliantly titled “Wait…What??” it features a series of quarter-mile shootouts between a Ford Explorer and a Jeep SRT Trackhawk. True, the EcoBoost V6 gives the Explorer some heat. But the SRT Trackhawk is at a distinct advantage with its 707 hp. Right?
Not so fast.
Now, we don’t know the details on the competing rigs. However, it seems that neither has been radically modified. Bone stock, the 2020 Ford Explorer’s twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 makes 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. The ST boosts that to 400 horses.
In the other corner, the Jeep SRT Trackhawk houses a 707 hp V8. Even tuned, the Explorer is punching against its weight…on paper. On the track, it is a different story.
From the first few seconds of the first race, we realize that this is going to be close. The Explorer launches off the line like a beast, and that boost is powerful.
We’ve never considered the Ford Explorer a high-performance SUV, but we must admit: it is killing it on the quarter-mile!
Run after run, the Ford not only matches the Trackhawk; it beats it. With passes in the 11.70- to 11.75-second range, the Explorer owns the track. Acceleration is forceful, handling and grip are solid, and the EcoBoost shines as a powerful beast.
Yes, the EcoBoost. Yes, a beast.
Ford’s turbocharged EcoBoost engines have always done the job, and provided a fun, spirited performance. Ford’s EcoBoost is often lauded for its capability and versatility, just not its might. And the Explorer has got some muscles. This translates on the track as decidedly more focused and purposeful. And fast. Let’s not forget, this is not an easy, breezy ride it is taking on and down, it is a Trackhawk.
“EcoBoost engines are underrated,” wrote JayXJ in the comments. “Yes they sound like s**t, but they’re pretty impressive stock, wild when tuned.”
“Boost is the great equalizer,” added another poster.
It’s a great show of force for Ford, and the EcoBoost. Would we pick an Explorer (or a Jeep, for that matter) to drag race? No, not as our first choice. But the video proved to us that the SUV is far more sporty, spry, and aggressive that we gave it credit for.
We are sorry we doubted you, Explorer.
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