Ford Explorer 2011
Ford is one of the most recognized brands out there. Your Explorer SUV has evolved over the years and considerable change has shaped its trends. The highly anticipated 2011 Explorer is a fifth generation model and has promised to undergo radical changes compared to previous generations.
As a paradigm shift, Ford intends to debunk the myths about SUV performance and fuel economy. Fuel economy is believed to be the main reason people say no to SUVs. That’s why Ford wants to combine the best fuel economy with the performance and capability expected of an SUV. In essence, the new Ford Explorer will shatter everyone’s perceptions of past experience with SUVs.
The truck model is slightly lower and wider, with tucked-in body panels and short overhangs. As an upgrade, the new Explorer will be introduced with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that delivers 250 lb-ft of torque from 1,700 rpm with a projected output of 237 hp at 5,500 rpm.
Now the standard engine delivers 255 lb-ft and 290 hp and is a 3.5-liter V6. These engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Therefore, the fuel economy is estimated to increase to 30%. Mpg numbers were not released, but compared to today’s Explorer at 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway, the new 4-cylinder would be around 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway. It is designed for 6 passengers and the four-cylinder can tow around 2,000 pounds, while the V6 can tow 5,000 pounds. There is a possibility that the 355-hp 3.5-liter Ecoboost will be delivered in the future, because there are no V8s available.
The Explorer will have a monocoque structure like the Lincoln MKS, Ford Flex or Ford Taurus with independent front and rear suspension.
The V6 model is mounted on all wheels, a technology developed with Land Rover. Adjustment of engine behavior to ground conditions is accomplished through a knob on the console. You can adjust the car’s transmission shifts, throttle tip, calibrations for traction and stability systems. The Hill Descent Control option brakes the engine to control the car when going downhill.
The interior features a set of inflatable seat belts for the rear seats, a technology developed over the past 10 years. The materials, fit and finish, and tight spaces are the best interiors Ford has ever come up with. The goal of the interior design was to make it compete with powerful and expensive cars like the Audi Q7 and BMW X5.
Limited trim levels, XLP, or base levels will be on sale this winter. The first two will come with built-in MyFord Touch technology with LCD displays, a color touchscreen in the center, and USB ports, RCA video input jacks, SD card readers, and Ford Sync.
Prices will range in line with the current Explorer, starting at $29,280 for MSRP. Ford has a Facebook page for the new Explorer that began prior to its online debut on July 26, 2010. The car will continue to be marketed as an SUV, not a crossover.