The Explorer by Ford for 2010 is the last truck based SUV platform that the carmaker will offer. While well liked in the ‘90s, the Explorer had once paved a new path for SUVs in the class, but consumer demand and preference has declined as they seek out comfortable, car-based crossover configurations. This means that the Explorer will be converted to a unibody platform for 2011.
The most recent Explorer was launched in 2006 and has remained relatively unchanged. Motors were carried over for the most part, but Ford did add the V-8 motor, 6 speed gearbox option. In the 90s and beyond, the Explorer has been powered by the aging Cologne V-6 in base configurations. The Ford Explorer and the F-150 share the V-8 option: a motor that is also aging.
The Explorer is a seven seater with four-wheel-drive. The vehicle has excellent towing capabilities. However, its aging engines and truck like handling, in addition to a subpar fuel economy is making the vehicle a hard sell, especially when a new configuration is slated for the near future.
The Range
Bodystyles: SUV
Engines: 4.0L V-6, 4.6L V-8
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic, 5-speed automatic
Models: XLT, Eddie Bauer, XLT Sport, Limited
What's New
The only change for 2010, which is to be the Explorer's last year on a ladder-frame platform, is the addition of Trailer Sway Control and MyKey as standard features.
Exterior
Explorer Eddie Bauer get gold front and rear bumpers, XLT Sport models get a black grille, and Limited models get body-color bumpers. Wheel choices range from 16-inchers on XLTs to optional 20s on Limited models.
Interior
The Explorer can seat up to seven thanks to an optional third row. However, this last row will be a tight fit for larger passengers. Maximum cargo space is 85.8 cubic-feet.
Performance & Handling
The Explorer's dated 4.0-liter V-6 makes a mere 210 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque while getting worse fuel economy than the V-8. That engine makes 292 horsepower and 315 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed auto comes with the V-8, V-6 models get a five-speed. Explorer V-6 models can pull up to 5,375 pounds, V-8 models up to 7,115 pounds.
Safety
The Explorer comes standard with six airbags, including side curtain airbags for all three rows of seats. Other safety features include standard traction and roll stability control, trailer sway control, and seatbelt pretensioners.
EPA Fuel Economy
V-6 RWD: 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway
V-6 4WD: 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway
V-8 4WD: 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Truck-like capability
- Seven-passenger seating
You Won't Like
- Underpowered V-6 engine
- Poor fuel economy
- Truck-like on-road demeanor
Sum Up
New model is on the way
If You Like This Vehicle
- Nissan Pathfinder
- Toyota 4Runner