Ford Explorer Review
Since Ford introduced the Explorer 15 years ago, Americans have snapped up 5.5 million of the brutes, making it the SUV sales leader ever since. Explorers are so ubiquitous-and so cautiously styled-that few of us even see them anymore. They're just there, like telephone poles or highway center lines, a herd of unnoticed appliances meandering through Everyman's daily travel experience.
Now comes a stem-to-gudgeon remake, much needed and thoughtfully executed. During our half-day drive in a preproduction model, we must nonetheless report that no civilians rushed up to ask, "Wow, is that the 2006 Explorer?" It still blends in, the vehicular equivalent of a pair of khaki Dockers.
The base Explorer has a 4.0-liter SOHC 12-valve V-6 producing 210 horsepower and mated to a five-speed automatic. Lay out an extra $1200, and you'll be rewarded with the 4.6-liter SOHC 24-valve V-8 producing 292 horsepower, with a six-speed auto. It's the same V-8 that powers the Mustang GT.
We sampled an option-heavy Limited V-8 model, and here are a few first impressions: It is among the quietest body-on-frame SUVs extant, so silent that you can hear the Michelins' tread blocks deflecting in turns. The six-speed is a godsend during passing maneuvers and on long uphill slogs, where, with a little practice, you can elicit a single-gear kickdown, rather than the 2005's omnipresent two-cog neck snappers. The revised steering finally evinces a dedicated sense of straight-ahead, even in crosswinds. Off-road, the massaged IRS is so adept at soaking up basketball-size boulders and potholes that it's like riding in a Range Rover. The seats are now suited to old guys' spines-as are the fold-flat second and third rows-and the instrument panel is a satisfying blend of Dallas ranch and Miami Ritz.
There's one Explorer trait that hasn't changed: You're still always aware you're driving a truck. No one will confuse an Explorer with the car-based all-stars in this class, notably, the Toyota Highlander and the Honda Pilot. Course, neither of those utes can tow a 7300-pound Bayliner, as can a V-8 Limited. Despite all the upgrades, Explorers fetch, on average, $1750 less than before, ranging from $27,175 to $33,160. Which means that-bland face and all-the Explorer is still worth exploring.
Source: https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/ford-explorer-first-drive-review
