The Unapologetic Head-Turner: Diving Deep into the 2020 Ford Explorer ST Rapid Red
You know, sometimes a vehicle just hits different. It's not just about getting from point A to point B; it's about the journey, the statement, the feeling. And if we're talking about making an entrance, few SUVs nail it quite like the 2020 Ford Explorer ST Rapid Red. Seriously, picture this beast rolling up – it's not just an SUV; it's a full-on experience, draped in a color that just screams "look at me!"
Honestly, when Ford announced the ST version of the Explorer, a lot of us raised an eyebrow. An Explorer… sport-tuned? Really? But then they delivered, and boy, did they deliver. And the Rapid Red Metallic paint job? That's the cherry on top, transforming an already aggressive machine into something truly spectacular. It's like Ford looked at the family SUV market and said, "Let's turn it up to eleven, shall we?"
More Than Just a Pretty Face: The "ST" Heartbeat
Let's cut right to the chase: the heart of the 2020 Ford Explorer ST is its engine, and it's a powerhouse. We're talking about a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 that churns out a jaw-dropping 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Now, for an SUV that can comfortably seat seven people and haul a decent amount of gear, that's just wild. Trust me, when you put your foot down, this thing moves. It'll hit 60 mph in under 5.5 seconds, which, for a three-row family hauler, is frankly absurd in the best possible way.
This isn't just about straight-line speed, though. The "ST" badge means a lot more than just a beefed-up engine. Ford engineers went all-in on making this Explorer handle like something much smaller and sportier. We're talking a sport-tuned suspension that really keeps things flat through corners, big, powerful brakes that bring all that momentum to a confident stop, and a quicker, more responsive steering setup. It's paired with a slick 10-speed automatic transmission that always seems to find the right gear, whether you're cruising on the highway or getting a little spirited on a back road. Driving it, you almost forget you're in such a substantial vehicle; it's genuinely engaging.
Rapid Red Metallic: A Color That Demands Attention
Okay, let's talk about the paint. The Rapid Red Metallic isn't just "red." Oh no, my friend, it's so much more. This isn't your grandma's burgundy or a standard fire engine red. This is a dynamic, multi-dimensional hue that practically glows. In direct sunlight, it pops with an incredible vibrancy, showcasing metallic flakes that dance and shimmer, giving the body lines an almost liquid quality. When the light hits it just right, it looks like it's in motion even when standing still.
And in dimmer light? It deepens, taking on a richer, more sophisticated tone that still refuses to blend into the background. This particular shade of red perfectly complements the aggressive styling of the Explorer ST – the blacked-out grille, the unique badging, the quad exhaust tips. It just elevates the whole package, making an already bold design truly unforgettable. If you want an SUV that makes a statement without being ostentatious, but also never goes unnoticed, the Rapid Red is absolutely the way to go. It's got that perfect blend of sporty aggression and premium polish.
Exterior Presence: Built to Impress
Stepping back and taking in the 2020 Ford Explorer ST, especially in Rapid Red, you immediately notice its commanding presence. It looks ready for anything. The ST-specific design cues are what really set it apart from its less performance-oriented siblings. Up front, you've got a unique mesh grille that's much more assertive, flanked by sleek LED headlights. The lower fascia is redesigned for a more aggressive look, hinting at the power beneath.
Along the sides, the muscular wheel arches house either the standard 20-inch machined aluminum wheels or the optional 21-inchers, which honestly, complete the look perfectly. They're usually dark-finished, providing a fantastic contrast against the bright red paint. Then there are the black accents – on the roof rails, mirror caps, and window surrounds – which just tie everything together, adding a touch of sophisticated menace. Around the back, the large "EXPLORER" badging, combined with the prominent ST logo and those quad exhaust tips, leaves no doubt about this SUV's intentions. It's a look that's both functional and incredibly stylish, especially when bathed in that gorgeous Rapid Red.
Inside Story: Sporty Comfort Meets Modern Tech
Open the door to the 2020 Explorer ST, and you're greeted with an interior that lives up to the exterior's promise. It's a space that manages to be both sporty and surprisingly refined. The cabin feels driver-focused, with high-quality materials and thoughtful touches throughout. You'll find ST-badged leather-trimmed seats with contrast stitching, often in a complementing silver or red, that not only look fantastic but also offer excellent support, especially when you decide to unleash those 400 horses.
Technology is front and center, as you'd expect from a modern Ford. The SYNC 3 infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, featuring an 8-inch or optional 10.1-inch portrait-style touchscreen that integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly. There's a fully digital instrument cluster that's customizable, letting you keep tabs on all the important performance metrics. And let's not forget the practicality: it's still an Explorer, so you get comfortable seating for seven, ample cargo space for family adventures, and a whole suite of driver-assist technologies designed to keep everyone safe. It's a place where performance and family-friendly functionality truly coexist without compromise.
The Drive: An Unforgettable Experience
But really, where the 2020 Ford Explorer ST Rapid Red truly shines is when you hit the road. It's just so much fun! The acceleration is addictive, pressing you firmly into your seat with a satisfying growl from the EcoBoost engine. And when you switch it into Sport mode? Everything tightens up – the steering becomes heavier, the throttle response sharper, and the transmission holds gears longer, ready to pounce. It's genuinely surprising how agile this big SUV feels. You can tackle a twisty road with confidence, something you might not expect from a vehicle of this size.
Yet, for all its performance credentials, it remains a perfectly comfortable daily driver. The ride, while firm, isn't harsh, making long highway cruises a breeze. The cabin is quiet, allowing for easy conversation or enjoying the premium sound system. It's this dual personality that makes the Explorer ST so compelling – it can be a composed family cruiser one minute and a thrilling performance machine the next. It's the ultimate do-it-all vehicle for those who refuse to settle for boring.
Who is This Rapid Red Beast For?
So, who exactly is the 2020 Ford Explorer ST Rapid Red perfect for? Well, if you're a parent who still dreams of driving a sports car but now needs room for three kids, a dog, and a week's worth of groceries, this is your ride. It's for the person who appreciates performance but also demands versatility. It's for the individual who wants to stand out from the sea of monochromatic SUVs without being overly flashy. And, let's be honest, it's for anyone who truly understands that a great color can elevate an already excellent product into something truly iconic.
In a market saturated with SUVs, the 2020 Ford Explorer ST Rapid Red doesn't just hold its own; it dominates. It's a testament to Ford's ability to inject genuine passion and performance into a practical package. It's exciting, it's functional, and in that incredible Rapid Red, it's undeniably cool. If you ever get the chance to drive one, especially in that stunning red, don't pass it up. You won't regret it.