Ford Explorer AWD SUV Review
SUV Reviewer
The Ford Explorer AWD is a fifth generation version of the truck-like four-door SUV that made its appearance on the automotive scene in 1991. Since then, the construction has changed to a carlike unitary construction which drives more like a crossover vehicle and has added four-wheel drive.
Features of the Ford Explorer AWD include leather upholstery, a rear backup camera, power adjustable pedals, 20-inch wheels and an audio system with twelve speakers. An optional "Rapid Spec Package 302A" includes a variety of entertainment and technological features such as front seats that can be heated and cooled, Ford's renowned navigation system, a third row seat that power folds, adaptive cruise control with collision warning, a warning detection system for blind spots, wipers that sense the rain, and active parking assist. Also available are a sun roof with two panels and a rear-seat entertainment system with DVD player.
Specs:
The engine of the Ford Explorer AWD is a naturally aspirated 3.5 liter V6 that can produce 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift. The smaller engine and better aerodynamics make for a fuel economy for the Ford Explorer AWD that is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
The all-wheel drive system of the Ford Explorer AWD lacks low-range gearing but does provide a dial for the type of terrain on which the vehicle is riding for four settings that include normal, mud, sand or snow. Once the right choice for the terrain is made, the vehicle then handles itself accordingly. There is software in the vehicle that uses sensors to provide the most traction possible for the selected terrain. Each mode can also be used with the included hill descent control and hill start assist features.
Cargo capacity for the Ford Explorer AWD behind the second row is 80.7 cubic feet.
The interior layout of the Ford Explorer AWD is well designed and thought-out. On either side of the speedometer are two thin film transistor screens which can be set up to display information that is relevant for the driver, such as a tachometer on the left and navigation information on the right. The cabin is quiet due to the soft-touch materials that comprise the dashboard and deaden any intrusion of road noise.
The Ford Explorer AWD also provides a large console between the front seats that holds a pair of cup holders and a storage bin that serves as an armrest. The terrain management dial is also found in the console as well as other controls for the climate and audio functions. An eight-inch touchscreen monitor handles the MyFordTouch and Sync operations which include such settings as navigation and destination input that are voice-activated. Seating is adequate and comfortable in the middle and back row seats while the front row seats could use some additional support for complete comfort.
The Ford Explorer AWD provides a smooth and comfortable ride and the AWD enables the vehicle to handle potholes and divots with ease. Highway driving is also energetic and very quiet as well.
Features of the Ford Explorer AWD include leather upholstery, a rear backup camera, power adjustable pedals, 20-inch wheels and an audio system with twelve speakers. An optional "Rapid Spec Package 302A" includes a variety of entertainment and technological features such as front seats that can be heated and cooled, Ford's renowned navigation system, a third row seat that power folds, adaptive cruise control with collision warning, a warning detection system for blind spots, wipers that sense the rain, and active parking assist. Also available are a sun roof with two panels and a rear-seat entertainment system with DVD player.
Specs:
The engine of the Ford Explorer AWD is a naturally aspirated 3.5 liter V6 that can produce 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift. The smaller engine and better aerodynamics make for a fuel economy for the Ford Explorer AWD that is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
The all-wheel drive system of the Ford Explorer AWD lacks low-range gearing but does provide a dial for the type of terrain on which the vehicle is riding for four settings that include normal, mud, sand or snow. Once the right choice for the terrain is made, the vehicle then handles itself accordingly. There is software in the vehicle that uses sensors to provide the most traction possible for the selected terrain. Each mode can also be used with the included hill descent control and hill start assist features.
Cargo capacity for the Ford Explorer AWD behind the second row is 80.7 cubic feet.
The interior layout of the Ford Explorer AWD is well designed and thought-out. On either side of the speedometer are two thin film transistor screens which can be set up to display information that is relevant for the driver, such as a tachometer on the left and navigation information on the right. The cabin is quiet due to the soft-touch materials that comprise the dashboard and deaden any intrusion of road noise.
The Ford Explorer AWD also provides a large console between the front seats that holds a pair of cup holders and a storage bin that serves as an armrest. The terrain management dial is also found in the console as well as other controls for the climate and audio functions. An eight-inch touchscreen monitor handles the MyFordTouch and Sync operations which include such settings as navigation and destination input that are voice-activated. Seating is adequate and comfortable in the middle and back row seats while the front row seats could use some additional support for complete comfort.
The Ford Explorer AWD provides a smooth and comfortable ride and the AWD enables the vehicle to handle potholes and divots with ease. Highway driving is also energetic and very quiet as well.
