The Explorer continues to be the best-selling SUV in the country, eventhough it isn't necessarily the best SUV in the country, at least if real
off-road use is a factor. Modest ground clearance and a long wheelbase
limit its usefulness in rough country.
What seems to keep the Explorer on top is its roominess, solid reputation
for durability, quality engineering, class-leading looks and its overall
reputation as the leader. Those are the things that keep resale values
up.
The new V6 engine is a sweetheart, and unless you must have the extra
torque provided by the V8 for serious trailering, we can't advise spending
the extra money.
The Explorer operates in a very populous realm, against some very able
competition. And it's not the least expensive, by any means. But for the
kind of all-around uses most families find for their sport-utilities, the
Explorer's formula is still tough to beat.