Description

In the Explorer's 2002 redesign, engineers devised an innovative porthole-in-frame independent rear suspension, with shafts that poke through holes drilled into the frame. Ford says trailing arms added to the rear suspension in 2006 make it more robust. Built on a 113.7-inch wheelbase, the Explorer measures 193.4 inches long overall. Large door openings coupled with a low step-in height should help ease entry and exit. A power moonroof and 18-inch chrome-clad wheels are equipped on this Limited model. A chrome four-bar grille, unique bumpers, fog lamps, puddle lamps and chrome roof rails, 18-inch machined aluminum wheels are installed on the Limited. The interior features a contemporary instrument panel, with a console-mounted floor shift lever. Seating for five occupants is standard, but a flat-folding third-row seat that permits seven-passenger capacity is installed on this model. The 60-40-split, folding second-row seat can be reclined. Remote keyless entry with a keypad, Heated front seats, a power passenger seat, dual-zone automatic temperature control and a six-CD player with MP3 capability are standard in the Limited. Insulation materials used along the headliner, door panels and floor of the passenger compartment offer a quieter ride. A heated windshield, Sirius Satellite Radio and DVD navigation system are included on this Limited. The 210-hp, 4.0-liter V-6 teams with a five-speed automatic transmission. Properly equipped, a V-6-equipped Explorer can tow up to 5,390 pounds. Limited models feature Ford's Safety Canopy side curtain airbag system standard. Antilock brakes and Ford's AdvanceTrac electronic stability system with Roll Stability Control are also standard. Seat-mounted side-impact airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system and a five-level front-passenger sensing system are standard. A 4-inch-thick foam block installed between the exterior and interior front-door panels help manage side-impact forces on occupants' hips.