Driving Impressions

The Ford Explorer drives like a traditional SUV though relatively smoothly and quietly, due partly to its independent rear suspension. Both the V6 and the V8 are smooth and quiet. With the lighter V6, the Explorer is a bit easier to turn and maneuver, but both engines are pleasant and competent. Choose the V8 if you pull trailers. The fuel economy hit is negligible. The 4.0-liter single-overhead-cam V6 features variable valve timing and is rated at 210 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque. It meets federal Tier II, Bin 4 emissions requirements for Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV II) status. With the V6, you get a five-speed automatic overdrive transmission and a maximum towing capacity of 5,395 pounds. The V6 gets an EPA-rated 14/20 mpg with 2WD, 13/19 mpg with 4WD. The V8 is the latest from Ford's 4.6-liter modular family, with single overhead camshafts and three valves per cylinder: two intake and one exhaust, for better breathing. It develops 292 horsepower, and 300 pound-feet of torque. The V8 delivers low emissions as well, meeting the Tier II, Bin 5 federal standard, which is compliant with California's Low Emissions Vehicle II (LEV II) standard. With the V8, you get a six-speed automatic with two overdrives, plus full electronic control of upshifting, downshifting and torque converter functions. A V8-powered 4x2 Explorer can tow up to 7,310 pounds. The V8 gets an EPA-rated 13/20 mpg with 2WD, 13/19 mpg with 4WD, the latter figure matching that of the V6 4WD. We noticed some slack in the drivetrain in some situations. After stopping for a stop sign then stepping on the gas, there was a momentary lag, as if we were waiting for the driveline hook up. This was annoying. The steering has a nice, hefty feel at highway speeds, while still providing plenty of assist for parking. The suspension is relatively supple, giving the Explorer a nice ride on rough streets. The Explorer does not lean excessively in corners for a heavy sport utility, body roll is nicely controlled and there's a feeling of being solidly planted. The current chassis is some 63-percent stiffer than in older models; chassis rigidity is a key element for crisp handling and a smooth ride. Explorer manages to be isolated from the road, but well connected to it, at the same time. Ford has done an exemplary job of insulating occupants from noise and vibration. The air conditioner is relatively quiet, but it does its job. Conversations are easily heard, the music sounds good, and the mirrors, with their square corners defying intuitive logic, are mercifully quiet, as are the tires. The brakes work well, with the right amount of travel and required pedal pressure.

Final Word

The Ford Explorer has never been better and represents an excellent choice among midsize sport utilities. It gets the basics right while paying attention to the details. We find the Explorer fully competitive in a tightly contested segment, succeeding as both an excellent machine and a high-value purchase. It's handsome, smooth, quiet, comfortable and competent. NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Jim McCraw filed this report from Dearborn, Michigan, with Kirk Bell reporting from Chicago and Mitch McCullough reporting from Los Angeles.