Ford's headlining sport utility vehicle, the Explorer, has been around since the end of the 1990 model year. The 2008 Explorer is a carryover from the 2007 model year. Options include a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with a larger 8 inch screen, a navigation system, a heated windshield, and a new bold-looking Ironman Package on XLT models.
The base engine is a 210 horsepower V-6 that delivers 254 pound feet of torque. A 4.6 liter V8 is available that turns out 292 horsepower and 300 pound feet of torque. You can choose from two-wheel drive and full-time all-wheel-drive. A five speed automatic overdrive transmission comes standard on all models. When properly equipped, the 2008 Explorer offers a hefty towing capacity of close to 7300 pounds, more than enough to satisfy any weekend boater.
A rigid frame, independent rear suspension, and responsive shocks contribute to a solid, steady ride with excellent handling characteristics. In addition, the extra sound deadening material Ford has added makes for a very quiet ride. There's a third seat option that can provide seven-passenger capability in a stylishly upgraded cabin. Cargo capacity is 85 cubic feet for the five-passenger models and 83 cubic feet on seven-passenger layouts with all rear seats folded.
The Limited is clearly the total up-market version in the Explorer family and it includes monochromatic paint, chrome wheels, a reverse sensing system, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power front passenger seat, and an upgraded sound system with an in-dash six CD player with subwoofer, MP3 capability and steering wheel controls.
Safety features are plentiful. Four-wheel antilock disc brakes are standard, as are front-seat side airbags, and advanceTRAC with roll-over stability control. If the system determines that a rollover is imminent, advanceTRAC takes corrective action to help avoid it.
Any Explorer can also be outfitted with the safety canopy system that includes first- and second-row side curtain airbags and a rollover sensor that keeps the airbags inflated longer in the event your Explorer does roll over.
Base MSRP of the 2008 Ford Explorer is $25,755. You could easily stretch that into the high thirty thousand dollar range by checking off any number of the attractive options.
The Explorer has been a hot-selling item in the relentlessly competitive SUV market for over a decade-and-a-half and the latest Explorer looks like it has what it takes to remain at the head of the class.