Ford Explorer customs clearance in Georgia: 2.3 EcoBoost vs 3.5 V6, a 5,600 GEL gap

The Ford Explorer is one of the most common American SUVs imported into Georgia, and customs clearance is not the same for every Explorer. The 2016 to 2019 model comes with two main engines: the 2.3-litre EcoBoost turbo and the 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6. They have almost the same power, yet the customs bill differs by more than 5,600 GEL.

Two engines, one car

The turbo four has more torque and uses less fuel in town. The V6 tows more: up to 2,270 kg with a trailer against 1,360 kg for the 2.3.

Why the customs bill differs

In Georgia the excise is calculated on engine displacement, not on horsepower. A car that has turned 7 years old pays 4.5 GEL per cubic centimetre, a car up to 6 years old pays 1.5 GEL. A 2019 Explorer is 7 years old in 2026, so the difference in displacement shows up directly in lari. The totals below (excise, import tax and service fees) come from the proauto.ge customs calculator:

The 3.5 EcoBoost has the same displacement as the naturally aspirated V6, so it clears customs for the same amount.

What goes wrong with each

2.3 EcoBoost: on Ford's smaller EcoBoost engines (1.5 and 2.0) coolant leaked into the cylinders and Ford runs official programs for them. No such program exists for the 2016 to 2019 Explorer 2.3, but a class action filed in the US in 2025 covers this engine too. When buying, check the coolant level and look for white exhaust smoke.

3.5 V6: the water pump sits inside the engine and is driven by the timing chain. When it fails, coolant mixes with the oil, and the replacement costs 2,500 to 3,000 dollars in the US because half the engine comes apart. Above 150,000 km have it checked at a workshop before buying.

Which one to pick

For the city and the family the 2.3 EcoBoost is cheaper both at customs and at the pump. Those who tow a trailer or love the sound of a V6 pick the 3.5 and count the difference in advance.

Frequently asked questions

How much is customs clearance on a 2019 Ford Explorer?

In 2026 about 10,800 GEL for the 2.3 EcoBoost and about 16,400 GEL for the 3.5 V6, for a left-hand-drive car.

Why is the turbo engine cheaper to clear?

The excise is based on displacement, not power: 2,261 cm³ is less than 3,496 cm³ while the power is almost the same.

How much cheaper is a 2020 Explorer at customs?

Up to 6 years of age the rate is 1.5 GEL per cm³ instead of 4.5, so a 2020 car costs 2.5 times less or more to clear in 2026. In 2027 it turns 7.