The Ford Explorer has long been one of the best-selling SUVs in the market. A capable tow vehicle and off-roader, it also offers the generous interior space, comfort features and safety technologies necessary for day-to-day tasks.
The 7-passenger Explorer is available in both front- and four-wheel drive configurations, with a choice of three trim levels: Base, XLT and Limited. A 290-hp 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift manual mode are standard on all trims. The 4x4 models get a user-friendly terrain management system, while an efficient 237-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged Ecoboost four-cylinder engine with direct fuel injection is available for FWD models. Explorer Base trims are well-equipped with 17-inch wheels, air conditioning, cruise control, MP3 capability and MyFord driver connect technology; XLT trims add 18-inch aluminum wheels, fog lamps and a reverse sensing system, along with a USB port, satellite radio and the SYNC communications and entertainment system. Limited trims are further outfitted with 20-inch aluminum wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, leather upholstery, HD radio, Intelligent Access with push-button start and a rearview camera. Standard safety features on every Explorer include AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control and Curve Control function, traction control, anti-lock disc brakes and a tire pressure monitor, as well as Ford's MyKey owner control feature and six airbags. Industry-first second-row inflatable seatbelts are available on XLT and Limited models, packaged with a Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert; additional options include Active Park Assist and adaptive cruise control with collision warning.
Redesigned last year, the Ford Explorer carries over with minimal changes for 2012. A six-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift is now standard on all trim levels, while a four-cylinder Ecoboost engine is available on every model. Additionally, XLT trims are now equipped with a USB port and the SYNC communications and entertainment system.<
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2012 Ford Explorer News, Reviews and Awards
...considering the Explorer's mediocre engine performance, you might be better off with a more modern seven-passenger crossover if you just need a family vehicle with plenty of passenger and cargo space.
[The] Ford Explorer is a relative joy to drive compared to other truck-based SUVs like the Dodge Durango and Chevy Trailblazer.
For many years, the Ford Explorer has been one of the best-selling SUVs in the market. A capable tow vehicle and off-roader, the Explorer also offers the generous interior space, comfort features and safety technologies necessary for day-to-day tasks.
Performance in government crash tests is good.
