The Ford Explorer has had its ups and downs.
It was riding high on the wave of SUV popularity
when, around 2001, accusations of tire failures
and rollovers came crashing down. Five years
later, the Explorer has rebounded, continuing
its reign as the best-selling SUV in the United
States.
Not fully redesigned for 2006, the Explorer has
undergone some pretty major enhancements, both
stylistically and mechanically. Safety enhancements
include standard front-side airbags, stability
control and Volvo-engineered Roll Stability Control
system. A new 292-horsepower V-8 is available
on all but the base XLS trim.
Across the board, the Explorer is very well equipped.
Available in XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited
trims, it features air conditioning, power accessories,
cruise control and keyless entry. The standard
engine is a 210-horsepower V-6.
The interior is nothing if not roomy. A variety
of configurations are available, including optional
power-fold third row seating and second-row captain's
chairs. Generally attractive and functional,
the dash area still has a little too much textured
plastic for my taste.
I drove the four-wheel drive Eddie Bauer edition
with a luxury package, third row seats and rear
entertainment system that topped out at a whopping
$43,160. As a mother of two who hosts frequent
visits from out-of-state grandparents, I certainly
understand the "utility" part of
the term SUV. But, despite the fact that Explorer
is classed as a midsize SUV, it certainly seems
to be a bigger vehicle than is necessary for
most people. Sure, the Explorer seems to be well
built and safe, but so are a lot of smaller 'utes.
As SUVs go, this one can do it all, transporting
a family of five while hauling all of their gear - and
then some. With the optional DVD entertainment
system in back for the kids, it is an ideal road
trip vehicle - except for the fact that
it's a gas guzzling behemoth. Even with
the V-8, I thought the Explorer seemed heavy.
Once underway, the ride was compliant and handling
reasonably good for a vehicle of this size.
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