You can treat an Explorer like a compact family sedan. It is, as mentioned,easy to get in and out of. Visibility all around is quite good in spite
of the rather large B and C roof pillars. The driver enjoys that secure,
command-of-the-road seating position that's helped to make sport-utilities
and pickup trucks so popular.
However, the Explorer doesn't really feel like a truck on the road.
Well, maybe a little--but only a little. While the ride is far from bouncy
and sharp, it is more springy than any sedan, and the reason has to be
those antique leaf springs in the rear. It is not offensive, but you will
notice it. The suspension does do a good job absorbing road irregularities,
though, and that's how it differs from trucks. Firm but comfortable, with
a strong sense of control.
We were a little surprised at the level of wind noise in the 40-60 mph
range in what otherwise is a solid, put-together vehicle.
Also, the new V6 becomes noticeably audible under hard acceleration.
On the other hand, that's common for sport-utility vehicles, and the engine