The Skoda Kushaq Explorer wears a brand new matte exterior end with new particulars to extend its ruggedness
The Czech carmaker Skoda just lately unveiled its future plans for India, the place it confirmed the launch of a brand new sub-4m SUV for India in 2025. At the identical occasion, the automaker additionally showcased a rugged-looking particular version of the Skoda Kushaq, calling it the Kushaq Explorer. This particular version of the Skoda SUV not solely includes a new inexperienced exterior shade with a matte end but additionally contains all-terrain tyres. Here are 7 real-life pictures to discover this showcase intimately:
Skoda hasn’t made any adjustments to the bodywork of the Kushaq Explorer nevertheless it does get a bunch of beauty updates. Much of the chrome parts and badges at the moment are blacked-out, together with the grille. Additionally, there are orange inserts on the grille and a silver skid plate, together with an orange-colored tow hook popping out of the bumper.
Other particulars like LED headlights with LED DRLs, entrance fog lamps, stay the identical because the common Kushaq. The entrance grille additionally has a digital camera which implies that it additionally includes a 360-degree digital camera.
Moving alongside the aspect, this particular version of the Kushaq will get an orange stripe on the aspect door cladding.
The greater change seen right here is the wheels. Skoda has fitted the Kushaq Explorer with all-black 16-inch alloys wrapped in all-terrain tyres that actually add to its rugged look to match the title of this particular version idea.
Skoda has additionally geared up the Kushaq Explorer with a roof-mounted provider. Being an off-road-focused model of the SUV, it additionally comes with a roof-mounted LED mild bar. It nonetheless has a single-pane sunroof indicating that this particular version of the Kushaq is predicated on the top-spec Style variant.
From the rear, the Explorer version of the Kushaq seems to be the identical as its normal model. Though the reflectors on the rear are linked by a black strip, and the letter ‘I’ within the TSI badge is completed in orange, which can be how we all know that this particular version will get the 150 PS 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine. Also, the ‘Skoda’ and the ‘Kushaq’ monikers have been utterly blacked out. It additionally will get a dual-tone grey-black end for the rear skid plate that elevates its total styling.
Inside, the Kushaq Explorer version will get the identical dashboard format because the common Kushaq, however there are colored inserts to match the matte inexperienced theme of the outside. Here, we will additionally see that that is the guide transmission variant of the SUV.
Powertrain Details
The Skoda Kushaq Explorer version comes with a 1.5-litre TSI engine (150 PS / 250 Nm) as recognized by the badge on the rear. While this engine comes paired to both a 6-speed guide transmission or a 7-speed twin clutch automated transmission (DCT), the Kushaq Explorer seems to be primarily based on a guide transmission variant.
Expected Launch
The Kushaq Explorer is only a idea for now, and Skoda hasn’t confirmed whether or not it will likely be launched or not. Even although the modifications over the common Kushaq are fairly fascinating, just like the roof provider and all-terrain tyres, they’re unlikely to grow to be a factory-fitted possibility. However, we may get the particular color and related beauty choices within the close to future, maybe with the advantage of dual-camera dashcam setup as nicely.
Price Range & Rivals
The common Skoda Kushaq is priced between Rs 11.89 lakh and Rs 20.49 lakh (ex-showroom) pan India. It takes on the likes of the Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, Volkswagen Taigun, Honda Elevate, and Citroen C3 Aircross.
The Ford Explorer has a fresh face, and now, so does the Lincoln Aviator. These two SUVs share a platform within the Ford household, proper right down to the 400-horsepower powertrain, inside structure, and obtainable tech. But Lincoln injects a bit extra luxurious into the components, punctuated for 2025 by a number of look packages and new tech methods that assist separate it from its cheaper sibling.
The largest replace seems proper up entrance. The Aviator’s face positive aspects a bigger grille with headlights that that join at its higher corners. There’s a redesigned fascia under that, that includes vertically oriented nook vents. The new Explorer has an analogous motif, although you possibly can’t get an illuminated grille badge on the Ford. Around the perimeters and to the rear you may discover the identical Aviator bits because the outgoing mannequin. This actually is a facelift, as the outside adjustments all occur on the nostril.
There’s an analogous theme inside, the place you now get bigger digital screens for the driving force and front-seat passenger. The middle show is as much as 13.2 inches with the instrument unit sitting at 12.4 inches. If this sounds acquainted, the brand new Explorer additionally rocks a 13.2-inch show, although the Ford’s digital driver display is ever-so-slightly smaller at 12.3 inches. The remainder of the inside is identical as earlier than, although Lincoln attire it up with numerous coloration combos utilizing suave names like Light Space Gray, Harvest Bronze, and Hot Chocolate.
While visible adjustments are minimal, know-how is the large story for the 2025 Aviator. Offered for the primary time is the Lincoln Digital Experience. This brings Google and Amazon performance built-in into the Aviator’s infotainment system, permitting native use of apps like Spotify, Google Maps, YouTube, and built-in internet browsers for browsing the net (although Lincoln advises a few of these options are solely obtainable when parked). Google Assistant or Alexa are on board and able to assist handle all the things by way of voice instructions. It’s all customizable on the whim of the driving force. Thankfully, you possibly can nonetheless boot up Android Auto or Apple CarPlay if that is what you favor.
BlueCruise can be new to the Aviator for 2025. Available on the Explorer, the hands-free driving system is commonplace throughout all Aviator trim ranges. Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 can be commonplace, bringing a big selection of driver assists to the SUV. That contains issues like lane-keep help and a 360-degree digicam, along with extra superior methods like evasive steering help and reversing brake help.
Beyond that, Lincoln provides clients a alternative of a number of black look packages and a wide range of wheel selections. There’s additionally the Lincoln Black Label Invitation theme, one thing provided on the bigger Navigator. In quick, it options particular coloration and inside particulars that, amongst different issues, embody laser-etched shapes on the sprint. You definitely will not get that on an Explorer.
The 2025 Ford Explorer is all about simplification. The up to date SUV rolls into the brand new mannequin yr with up to date exterior styling, a revamped cabin, extra customary options, and a lowered trim lineup.
The most important change for the favored three-row SUV is its inside. Ford pushes the dashboard ahead, growing the cabin house and revamping the format. The 13.2-inch infotainment display sits increased on the sprint with a brand new tray under it to carry your telephones, which comes with a wi-fi charging pad. Ribbed trim beneath the display helps passengers sense the place their arms are reaching.
If your Ford Explorer is among the many recalled SUVs, chances are you’ll want to go to a Ford seller as soon as the repair is deployed; the seller will examine and exchange the affected half (the A-pillar trim, on this occasion) freed from cost, assuming your automobile finally ends up being one of many small proportion affected by the problem. As with most automotive remembers, you will have Ford’s official intimation letter previous to the dealership go to, so maintain an eye fixed out for that letter.
In the meantime, in the event you suppose this concern may have an effect on your automobile, you might also contact Ford customer support at 1-866-436-7332 and reference recall quantity 24S02, in line with the recall discover. The paperwork revealed by the NHTSA reveal that there are not any recognized accidents or accidents associated to this concern. Ford mentioned in one of many recall paperwork that there have been greater than 14,000 guarantee claims associated to the A-pillar trim, nevertheless.
The Field Explorer is a extra rugged-looking, customised model of the Japan-spec Honda Elevate
Honda has launched the Elevate in Japan because the Honda WR-V.
The Japan-spec Honda Elevate appears to be like the identical because the India-spec mannequin.
Honda has previewed a personalized idea model of the SUV often called ‘Field Explorer’.
This rugged trying model of the Elevate consists of official Honda equipment accessible for the Japan-spec SUV.
The Honda Elevate made its world debut in India in September 2023 marking the model’s entry within the compact SUV area. Two months later, Honda launched the Elevate in its home country, rebranded as the Honda WR-V. Now, Honda has previewed a personalized model of the Japan-spec SUV, named the WR-V Field Explorer idea. It is ready to be formally showcased on the Tokyo Auto Salon, to be held on January 12-14, 2024.
The WR-V Field Explorer version is a rugged-looking variant of the SUV, customised utilizing each real Honda equipment, solely accessible in Japan, and some further bits.
Honda WR-V Field Explorer Concept: Details So Far
Honda has solely revealed the entrance three quarters of the idea construct forward of the showcase. The entrance of the SUV options an all-new blacked-out grille with a big cross-bar built-in, bearing the total ‘Honda’ inscription above it. Atop the grille, three yellow auxiliary lights have been added to reinforce its rugged attraction. The yellow lights are additionally built-in into the fog lamps.
Another noticeable change on the entrance is the fully blacked-out skid plate, which will get silver inserts on the common model of the Japan-spec Honda WR-V. The aspect cladding has been modified, and it additionally will get all-terrain tyres, fitted on the brand new, blacked-out alloys. This Field Explorer idea has additionally been supplied with a roof rack. The headlights and taillights additionally seem to characteristic a smoked impact for a sportier attraction.
The India-spec Honda Elevate is obtainable with 3 accent packs: the Basic equipment, Signature pack, and Armour pack. It additionally comes with a bunch of equipment.
The Basic equipment contains automotive care equipment corresponding to mud flaps, ground mats, mud guards, key chains, and an emergency hammer. In distinction, the Signature pack consists of chrome garnishes for the entrance grille, fog lamps, taillights, entrance fender, entrance beneath spoiler, aspect beneath spoiler, rear decrease garnish, door mirror garnish, and quarter pillar garnish . The Armour pack options automotive safety equipment, together with entrance and rear bumper nook protectors, door edge garnish, aspect protectors, tailgate entry guard, and door deal with protectors.
To know extra in regards to the official equipment supplied with the Honda Elevate, head here.
So do you suppose Honda must also supply the Field Explorer accent pack for the India-spec model of the SUV as effectively? Share your ideas within the feedback part beneath.
The Ford Explorer has been a popular mid-size SUV for over 30 years and continues to be one of the top choices on the market.
Offering a spacious interior with room for up to seven passengers, the Explorer also provides convenient features such as power-folding rear rows and easy access to the third row.
With diverse engine options, including a hybrid variant, and smart safety technology, the Explorer has earned top safety ratings and caters to a wide demographic.
The Ford Explorer has maintained its popularity over 30 years, remaining one of the most popular mid-size SUVs on the market. A recent report by Car and Driver places the Explorer at number 19 in the best-selling cars, trucks, and SUVs of 2023 with 138,132 units sold. Additionally, a press release by Ford, in the first quarter of 2023, ranks it as the best-selling three-row mid-size SUV in America.
The Explorer caters to larger families, business people, camping enthusiasts, and law enforcement, and offers a variety of options, including the ST and King Ranch trims for those seeking a performance model.
The Explorer has received technological and safety updates over the years, ensuring that newer models, such as the 2024 Explorer, maintain the capability and performance the model is knownfor.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Car and Driver, Motor Trend, IIHS, NHTSA, and Ford.
A Spacious Interior For All
Ford
The Ford Explorer has had the most sales in the history of SUVs in America, with over 8.4 million units sold since its inception in 1991. The SUV offers spaciousness, comfortably accommodating up to seven passengers for short and long trips.
Priority For Cabin Space
The third-generation Explorer introduced a third-row seat, expanding the seating capacity to seven passengers. The sixth generation model transitioned from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive, slightly increasing cabin space.
The Explorer offers a decent amount of cargo space, with the hybrid version providing a curb weight of 4,696 pounds and a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.
Ford Explorer Hybrid Cargo Dimensions
Cargo Space (all seats in place)
18.2 cubic feet
Cargo Space (third-row folded)
47.9 cubic feet
Cargo Space (second- and third-row folded)
87.8 cubic feet
(Cargo dimensions sourced from Ford)
Versatility To Meet All The Demands Of Life
Ford
The Ford Explorer offers diverse engine options, including a hybrid variant that balances efficiency and power. The hybrid option, with a 3.3-liter V-6 gas engine and an electric motor, offers a dynamic balance of power and efficiency, with 318 horsepower, 322 pound-feet of torque, and 27 MPG combined fuel economy. The intelligent 4WD system contributes to a smooth driving experience in all weather conditions, making the Explorer a versatile choice.
The Explorer is well-equipped for a safe driving and riding experience, featuring standard driving safety aids and the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package that includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Excellent Safety Ratings
The Explorer was named the 2023 top safety pick by IIHS and received an overall safety rating of 5/5 stars from NHTSA, making it a top choice for safety-conscious consumers.
Ford is all set to raise the temperature in the electric segment with the new all-electric Explorer.
Nostalgia And Iconic Design: The Exterior
Bring-A-Trailer
The Ford Explorer remains a fashionable and functional SUV, appealing to nostalgia with its iconic design. It has evolved over three decades, maintaining its reputation for versatility and performance. The car continues to be a top choice for consumers seeking a reliable and versatile SUV.
Tradition Meets Tomorrow
The Ford Explorer design has endured throughout the years, with earlier models based on a body-on-frame platform and later transitions to a car-based structure. Despite technological advancements, the Explorer maintains a rugged and practical design coupled with modern features.
Ford’s upcoming model, the new Explorer, will now be launched in mid-2024, according to Leenarts, a representative from the company. While the new Explorer differs significantly from its predecessor, it is important for Ford that it maintains the same adventurous character. Leenarts also mentioned that Ford plans to reintroduce other well-known vehicle names to new products, aiming to highlight the firm’s heritage. He expressed that the public appreciates this strategy of expanding nameplates to new territories.
The design team of the new Explorer has made use of various techniques to ensure the vehicle’s aerodynamic efficiency and interior space, while still maintaining a minimalist and upright two-box silhouette reminiscent of the original Explorer, as well as Ford’s iconic USA models, including the Bronco and F-150. Noteworthy design features include a bold front end with a larger logo, a beltline that wraps around the entire car, generous wheel arches, and a floating roof with contrasting black A-pillars.
The designers are keen to highlight that while the Explorer breaks away from the established conventions of Ford design, future models will not adopt the same cues and proportions. Each car will have its own unique character and design. The design team prioritized increasing interior space compared to similar-sized internal combustion engine vehicles. This was made possible by the flat floor and modularity of the MEB platform, which allows the Explorer to offer large car qualities in a relatively compact size.
Notably, the new Explorer does not have storage space under the bonnet. However, it features a hidden load bay under the boot floor, similar to the Puma model. Additionally, the Explorer is equipped with a 17-litre ‘Megaconsole’ cubby located between the two front seats, which is one of the largest in any production car. The boot space is sized at 450 litres with the seats up, surpassing the capacity of the Mustang Mach-E, and expands to 1400 litres with the seats folded. The load floor can also be adjusted according to one’s needs.
Ford is preparing to launch an updated version of its popular Explorer SUV. The mid-cycle refresh is expected to debut for the 2024 model year. However, before the new design is revealed, you can feast your eyes on a captivating video from the Woodworking Art YouTube channel. The video showcases a remarkable wooden carving of the 2023 Explorer Limited.
This YouTube channel has previously amazed viewers with its wooden creations, including a 1967 Ford Mustang and a 2023 GMC Sierra, all meticulously crafted by talented carpenters from Vietnam. The attention to detail is nothing short of exceptional. The same level of craftsmanship is evident in their rendition of the 2023 Explorer, complete with a fully furnished interior featuring three rows of seats capable of accommodating up to seven passengers.
It appears that Ford no longer feels the need to conceal the updated 2024 Explorer. Previous spy shots of the three-row SUV have shown the model without any camouflage, and the most recent pictures reveal the Explorer Timberline joining the group with fully exposed sheet metal.
However, the 2024 Timberline doesn’t feature the redesigned face seen on other test vehicles and trims; instead, it retains the current fascia’s styling. The SUV retains the narrow grille and old headlights, along with the rugged lower bumper of the current model. Nevertheless, the refreshed variant is evident in the new rear taillights and hatch found on this off-road-oriented Explorer trim.
Ford is currently working on the updated version of the Explorer, and it seems to be progressing without any camouflage. Our spies have managed to capture some more pictures of the SUV on the roads of Dearborn, Michigan, and in Colorado. This time, they were able to get shots of the ST and Platinum trims.
The refreshed Explorer boasts a revamped front end, featuring slimmer headlights and a rectangular-shaped grille. This is a departure from the current trapezoidal styling with sharp corners. The ST trim presents a black mesh grille, while the Platinum trim showcases a metallic finish on its lower sections.
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