2020 Ford Explorer to Come Equipped with Hankook Tires
The all-new Explorer comes with class-leading powertrains, an extremely capable hybrid, and a diverse wheel and tire lineup.
Ford’s completely redesigned Explorer debuted to critical acclaim this year. Patrick Rall of Ford Truck Enthusiasts felt that every iteration of the Explorer – from base XLT to top spec Platinum – displayed a remarkable sense of poise both on and off-road. With the addition of the ST and hybrid models for the 2020 model year, it really seems like Ford has an Explorer for everyone. And the inclusion of the F-150’s impressive 10 speed automatic transmission is just icing on the cake.
Hankook’s Kinergy GT all-season tires will also contribute to the Explorer’s success. The South Korean tire manufacturer inked a deal with Ford to provide original equipment tires for the 2020 model. Hankook also provides tires for the F-150 and Ranger. This latest development is part of Hankook’s campaign to expand its presence in America, a plan that saw the company spend $800 million to construct a manufacturing facility in Tennessee. With the inclusion of the Explorer, Hankook now provides tires to the most popular three row crossover in the country. As for the Explorer, its wheel and tire offerings are better then ever.
The Kinergy GT tires provided by Hankook will come in 255/65R18 configuration. 18 inch tires are standard on the Explorer Base, which is now fleet only, and the XLT, now the least expensive Explorer for civilians. Hankook designates the Kinergy GT model as grand touring all-season tires. According to Discount Tire Direct, grand touring tires move beyond regular all-seasons and provide drivers with additional on-road comfort, a higher speed rating, and more responsive handling.
Hankook touts their Kinergy GT lineup as being both fuel efficient and all-weather capable. The tires rely on low rolling resistance technology and a tread pattern enhanced by a four channel design, optimized lateral grooves, and chamber sipe arrangement that should enable the Explorer to easily handle wet and snowy roads. Baked into every Kinergy GT tire are high grip silica compounds that Hankook molds into a multi-layered carcass. Jointless and supplemental reinforced belts are used to deliver a smooth ride on or off the pavement, which fits well with the Explorer’s mission statement.
“We are thrilled to continue our relationship with Ford, a brand synonymous with adventure and durability,” said Hyunjun Cho, Head of OE Division. “The Kinergy GT provides drivers of the new 2020 Ford Explorer with outstanding performance in all weather conditions. We’re proud to continue to support Ford vehicles with quality tires for their vehicles.”
While the volume XLT models will come equipped with Hankook tires, Limited, Platinum, and ST trimmed Explorers get a variety of different 20 and 21 inch tires. Standard on the Platinum and Limited Hybrid models and optional on the regular Limited trimmed Explorers are Michelin Selfseal tires. In the event of a puncture, the natural rubber sealant inside the tire can slow a leak down to 15 psi per week. The Explorer will be the first-ever SUV equipped with Selfseal technology.
There’s an interesting tire-related story for the Explorer ST too. Buyers will have the option of upgrading to Michelin Latitude Sport 3 high-performance summer tires later this year. When they look at the tire they’ll see “MO” emblazoned across all of them. What does MO stand for? Mercedes Original. Yes, you read that right. Ford Performance decided to equip the ST with tires originally developed for Mercedes. Ford wanted the Pirelli all-season tires and the optional high performance ones to be the same 275/45R-21 size, and that was their only option. ST shoppers shouldn’t be too concerned about them though, because they were designed specifically for the AMG GLE43 coupe, which itself is a performance variant of the GLE crossover.
The 2020 Explorer is an extremely capable SUV that brings honor to the venerable nameplate. With a diverse lineup of tires, Ford is committed to maximizing the Explorer’s versatility in new and interesting ways. Hankook’s Kinergy GT all-seasons will enable the Explorer to continue its domination of the three row segment and allow the Korean tire manufacturer to flourish in the American market for years to come. Don’t be surprised if you see Hankook tires on additional Ford models in the future.
Photos: Ford