Tag Archives: ford explorer
Can’t wait to Explore the Many Faces of Ford Explorer 2016
There are two things that keep the motor world running – constant rumors and constant arrivals. So, on any given day, you will find either one of them keeping the town abuzz. If you are reading this, most certainly you came looking for either some scoop or some solid, definite story. Well, how about we give you both? No, really. So, hold your breath for we have some information from Ford – the company that has never disappointed us in terms of looks and performance, too. Here is what we know. The upcoming Ford Explorer 2016 prototype continues to be in a testing phase. It has had two effects – firstly, it has caused a lot of frustration, for it has been a long wait. Secondly and most importantly, it has added fuel to the fire that was already burning furiously. Simply put, it has gotten people more excited. And now, their anticipation has skyrocketed and there is no controlling it. Well, from the brand’s perspective, it is good news, for sure!
While 2016 might seem a little too far away, 2015 is right here, knocking at our door and it has some pretty great things lined up for us. So, along with the upcoming SUV Ford Explorer 2016, there will be some other amazing advancements. Though all eyes are fixed on what the company is planning on throwing our way, we sort of know and have heard from experts and credible sources, that it is all in good taste. Not deviating from the main creation in point, let us get to know more about it, before we indulge in detailed analysis. They say, its look is totally inspired by the Edge! Some are agreeing with it while others are calling it a stretch of imagination. Then, other changes that have been made are obvious in the façade of the car. It proudly flaunts an ultimately new grille. From distance, it has been noticed that the bumper has been lowered and there are more air inlets than there were before. Certainly, a league ahead of the previous beauties launched by the company, we must say! That’s not all, the headlights though are very close to the conventional norms, add to its charm which is further enhanced with the LED fog lamps that grace its magnificent presence. A beauty, indeed! What do you think?
We had also heard that the upcoming Ford Explorer 2016 is to have an expansive glass covering towards the back end. There are many speculations about the interiors just yet but since we never disappoint you, we will tell you that many changes are expected. They are sure to make this crazy hottie look different from other contenders on the road! It is all aluminum now so it is going to be lighter than before. Its performance is sure to sweep many feet off the floor and like that wasn’t enough, the company has announced it will be revamped in the coming years! Too much to handle for now. Just send the upcoming Ford Explorer 2016 our way, already!
2014 Ford Explorer: A Popular SUV
Long back in the year 1991, when Ford introduced its Ford Explorer a number one sport utility vehicle of that time, which eventually cemented the popularity of SUVs offered a rather rugged alternative to awkward station wagons and at that time it was considered a perfect vehicle. Ever since, the SUV landscape has gone through the tremendous change, but in 2014 as well Ford has kept its basics right and has introduced the all new 2014 Ford Explorer with that same old nostalgic feel. The excellent combination of power, refined interiors, fuel economy and much more has made it even more desirable than before.
To keep pace with the modern SUV market, Ford has adopted the carlike unibody structure to construct Ford, thus taking break from their truck like underpinnings, which is common in all their older models. The biggest advantage for Ford with this new body construction is that it offers more cabin space, improved fuel economy and comfortable ride, all these features come as a basic expectation from any family vehicle and Ford Explorer has managed to meet them all. From inside as well, this time Ford has kept its interiors upscale, adding seven passenger seat option along with a comprehensive list of safety and convenience features. There are also some advanced and unique options available like heated back seats, which are not very common in SUVs of the same price band. Second row seat belt airbags along with lane departure and lane warning systems are all newly added features for traditional 2014 Ford Explorer.
Ford has kept its engine standard V6 offering 290 horsepower, which is perfect to meet the needs of buyers, but to make it more interesting Ford has included 2.0 liter four cylinder engine as an added advantage. However, the buyer has to pay additionally for this engine but trust us it’s completely worthwhile because its power and fuel economy are best in this class. If you are still looking for the performance oriented Ford Explorer, than the company has also introduced its Explorer Sport Model with 3.5 liter turbocharged V6 engine with the power of generating 365 horsepower. Along with this, the sport version also offers firm suspension tuning and refurbished interior/exterior trim details.
Talking about the drawbacks of 2014 Ford Explorer, we got the conclusion that they mainly depend on the priority of the buyer. For example, if all member of your family are tall, than you might not find the second and third row seats comfortable as they are less roomier if compared to other crossovers. Same goes for its cargo space and its MyFord touch interface which has frequent glitches while operating. Also, the 2014 Ford Explorer feels bigger than it actually is while behind the wheel and is not at all an easy vehicle to maneuver while driving in tight spaces.
Possible alternative for 2014 Ford explorer are 2014 Chevrolet Traverse, 2014 Dodge Durango, 2014 Mazda CX-9 and Fords’ Sibling Ford Flex as they all are roomier, versatile and upscale with many comforts which are not available in 2014 Ford Explorer.
The 2013 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Chevrolet had a plethora of auto shows to choose where they were going to unveil the new Chevrolet trailblazer and the automaker chose the 2011 Dubai Motor Show. The brand announced a comeback of the Trailblazer along with confirming the news that the SUV will share a body-on-frame platform with the new Chevrolet Colorado pickup. The Trailblazer, just like the Colorado is a global vehicle. Though, if one really gives a thought, this SUV seems to be built for a region like the Middle East. No wonders that it was revealed at the Dubai Motor Show. When the 2013 Chevrolet Trailblazer made its appearance in Dubai, it definitely came with a plenty of features that could potentially shoot it up the always-competitive mid size crossover SUV market.
Designed to combine the hauling and towing capability of a body-on-frame SUV with the ride and comfort of a crossover, the 2013 Chevrolet Trailblazer epitomizes these qualities well enough. For all intents and purposes, this vehicle was unveiled at the Dubai Motor show as merely a show vehicle, but according to Chevrolet, this was as close to the real thing as it could possibly get.
Created by the GM South America Design Centre in Sao Caetano do Sul, Brazil, the Trailblazer’s design seems familiar because of sister model, the Chevrolet Colorado. The Trailblazer sports and imposing profile what Chevy calls a “body in-wheels out” design. The hood of the SUV offers a dramatic power dome and when mated with a raised cowl, it gives the 2013 Chevrolet Trailblazer a strong and intimidating look. Dual projector LED headlamps also add to the power along with the signature Chevrolet’s lighting.
Just like how it projects itself on the outside, the Trailblazer is just as bold and strong on the inside as well. The contrasting trim used with the light colored leather seating, mat dark wood trim accented with chrome and dual grained surface provide a premium feel the Trailblazer. The instrument panel and the integrated center stack combine seamlessly with one another and features and overhead console that integrate the HVAC system with onboard infotainment. Clever spaciousness is another thing that defines the Trailblazer, offering intuitive three-row tumble and/or fold-flat seat versatility, complete with a second and third row seat versatility that can be used upright to accommodate more passengers and folded to carry more storage space.
Powered by a 2.8 liter Duramax diesel engine the Trailblazer is still a mystery when it comes to output figures.
As the model that featured in the Dubai Motor Show was a show piece for all intent and purposes, pricing on the Chevrolet Trailblazer has not yet been decided. While there are no full figures of the Chevrolet Trailblazer, the fact remains that when it does go on sale it is going to face immense competition with models like the Ford Explorer and the Dodge Durango. All the three models belong to the biggest US automakers so it is going to be one hell of a rivalry as to which SUV will be more successful.
First Look: 2014 Mazda CX-9
Standing out from the current line up from the brand, the new 2014 Mazda CX-9 is not only the brand’s largest vehicle, but it’s also a holdover from another era at the automaker; the era before the brand decided to “go it alone” away from Ford and focus on engineering more lightness and fuel efficiency into its cars and crossovers. Although the 2014 Mazda CX-9 is not a class leader in gas mileage, like those other models, it still ranks as one of the better large crossover options if you need three rows of seating and a responsive, almost nimble driving demeanor.
It was only last year that the Mazda CX-9 received a modest set of upgrades with a new snout that closely matches the frond-end look of the recently redesigned CX-5 compact crossover, Mazda 3 compact car family and the Mazda 6 Sedan. Already, the Mazda CX-9 has been one of the better looking vehicles in its class but the Kodo ‘soul of motion’ design language applied with only the new front end and rear details to the 2014 Mazda CX-9 is a good fit with the SUV’s existing side profile. A number of minor aesthetic changes to the cabin can be seen in the 2014 Mazda CX-9. The centre stack area has been redesigned to accommodate a 5.8 inch touchscreen and overall the interior look, while clearly carried over is the better fit with the CX-5’s somewhat more upright look. The dashboard in the CX-9 features a graceful waterfall design that flows into the door panels with uncommon flair.
Performance changes aren’t much for the 2014 Mazda CX-9 and that is a good thing. The 3.7 liter ‘MZR’ V-6 engine produces a 273 horsepower and runs on regular gas. Mated to a six speed automatic transmission with manual shift control, the engine accelerates the crossover from zero to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds for a front wheel drive configuration. An all wheel drive model needs 8.5 seconds for the same. The fuel economy is on par with that of other large crossovers at an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined (17 mpg city/24 mpg highway) for front wheel drive models. The 2014 Mazda CX-9 AWD drops to 18 mpg combined (16 mpg city/22 mpg highway).
Offering amazingly strong acceleration for both around town driving and highway passing the Mazda CX-9 impresses with its agile responses. An accomplished highway cruiser, this SUV keeps road and wind noises to acceptable levels for backseat movie viewing and such. The steering, so precise, enable the driver to carve a consistent path no matter if one powers down the interstate or makes time on a rural two-way road. The steep rake of the windshields adds to the sporty vibe of the giant crossover. The suspension is a combination of compliance and poise and this is one of the best handling crossovers around.
Yes there are competitors like the Ford Explorer, Chevy Traverse, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot and Nissan Pathfinder, but the 2014 Mazda CX-9 stands out with its powerful V6 engine, dynamic handling, agile responses and a stunning body.
Volkswagen CrossBlue Concept
Right after Chevrolet gave to the market the C7 Corvette, Volkswagen is ready to offer SUV lovers, or rather the American SUV lovers the most American vehicle of the year. Volkswagen CrossBlue concept was revealed at the Detroit auto show this year. Officially a concept, the CrossBlue while sporting the plug-in diesel-electric powertrain as a token to carry on the legacy of the classic auto-show fare, the concept is quite a foretaste to the three-row SUV Volkswagen is about to offer in the coming two years.
As the brand tells about the Volkswagen CrossBlue and the production version that will step into the light with a different name, the crossovers are claimed as being “made for America”. It’s a two way deal. While the CrossBlue concept is a stunning treat to the American taste buds, the CrossBlue will be a trump card for VW quest for American sales growth. Anticipated to be a six or seven seater, the three-row crossover takes straight aims at the Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder. The design of the concept perfectly displays the key characteristics of American SUVs. Marc Lichte, exterior designer for the Volkswagen CrossBlue concept skillfully incorporated giant wheel arches, a broad stance and the general brawn and masculinity into the design for the Americans to indulge into their rides. The successful attempt to style the CrossBlue for the Americans is testified by the fact that it is virtually a doppelganger to the Jeep’s Grand Cherokee and the styling is to remain mostly the same for the production model as well.
The Volkswagen CrossBlue concept’s powertrain is a diesel hybrid setup combining the latest EA288 2.0 liter turbo diesel four-cylinder engine, a six-speed DSG dual clutch automatic transmission and two electric motors, one at each axle. On its own, the diesel is capable of producing 190 horsepower and 280 pound feet of torque while the front mounted motor delivers 54 horses and 133 pound feet of twist along with the rear mounted one that is good for 114 and 119. Overall, the system is one big machine successfully producing 305 horsepower and a phenomenal torque of 516 pound feet. The brand claims that CrossBlue can cruise at a theoretical top speed of 127 mph and can achieve 60 mph from rest (o mph) in an impressive 7.0 seconds.
It is not yet decided where the CrossBlue will get its final North American assembly. Reports are the various VW plants are to bid for the right to build the stunning crossover. However, it is strongly anticipated that the crossover will unite with the Passat in Chattanooga, Tennessee. There is expected to be a long wait between the idea and the implementation. The concept is not yet to be headed for production and there have been no official announcements made. For a German company to pursue such a considerable wait for a behind schedule model, it comes with a bit of the surprise, but maybe it is just another aspect among many of the Volkswagen’s Americanization.
2013 GMC Acadia vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
GMC Acadia VS Ford Explorer
It is not necessarily easy to compete in the large crossover SUV category, but GMC Acadia and Ford Explorer manage to deliver standout performances in two very different ways. Both vehicles give you strong engines, impressive towing capabilities, third row seating and a ton of technology features, but while Ford takes the sporty and modern approach, GMC appeals to the more classic and elegant-minded buyer. Regardless which vehicle you choose, you are sure to enjoy a rewarding experience cruising in-city, on the highway, or down a secluded country road.
Performance
Every Acadia is powered by a 3.6-liter engine that buyers have come to trust and truly rely on through the years. It delivers 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, and can tow 5,200 pounds with ease. All-wheel drive is available to provide you with an extremely intelligent powertrain capable of reacting to changing driving conditions. Fuel economy is average for this segment, returning 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Ford gives you a few different options. Explorer’s standard engine is a 3.5-liter V6 mated to a six-speed automatic to deliver 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. Hill start assist and hill descent control are included. it can reach 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, and yields 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Properly equipped, towing capacity is 5,100 pounds.
Those opting for Explorer Sport will enjoy a turbocharged version of this same engine to boost performance to 365 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. There is also a turbocharged “EcoBoost” 2.0-liter four-cylinder available on front-wheel drive models that delivers 240 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. Acceleration speeds drop but fuel-economy is impressive at 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Driving and Handling
Although large, both SUVs are known for handling quite nicely. Will you need to slow down a little around turns? Probably! However, you won’t feel as though you are driving a tank either, like you might expect.
Acadia gets a fully independent suspension so bumps felt by one wheel are not transferred to the others. This helps to deliver a smooth and comfortable ride. Ford feels solid, even at highway speeds and the electric power steering system is incredibly responsive. Both vehicles will give you a commanding view and feel of the road, so whether you are stuck in traffic in, or cruising the back country roads you will feel confident.
Safety
Top safety scores in roof, front and side-impact protection from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety can be appreciated in Acadia and Explorer. These are family-friendly vehicles that have been designed with safety in mind. Acadia boasts a Front Center Air Bag, which is an industry first while Explorer gets Ford’s Curve Control; a feature that can monitor speed entering a corner and slow the vehicle down if needed.
Ford gives you the MyKey® system, allowing parents the power to set audio and speed control for younger drivers while GMC gives you OnStar, providing roadside assistance, automatic crash response and more.
Exterior
As mentioned, these SUVs provide two very distinct looks. Acadia is classic and sophisticated while Explorer is modern and sporty. Acadia gets full redesigned for 2013, with a new hood, front fascia, grille and wheel options. It offers a confident stance with clean lines and gorgeous new projector beam headlamps.
Explorer received a redesign two years ago, and fortunately, Ford did not fuss with it because it is the best design yet. Black lower bumpers offer a rugged look while chrome accents and a satin silver grille provide a modern attitude. Explorer has an agile, fluid look that Ford fans love, and the available 20-inch wheels are a must-have.
Interior
Both provide three rows of seating, but if you plan on using your third row for adults, Acadia would be your best option. Explorer’s third row is better suited for children, however Explorer also gives you a power-folding rear seat. Acadia seats up to eight passengers with more than enough room for adults to fill all three rows. The second row does slide easily to provide access the third row.
GMC gives Acadia a revised center console and handsome cabin accents while Ford has one of the most user-friendly interfaces on the market.
Technology and Entertainment
The Color Touch Radio with IntelliLink® is a highlight in Acadia, but is it enough to compete with SYNC®? These interfaces are very similar yet quite unique, so getting familiar with both could sway you toward one vehicle or the other.
Both vehicles also offer a rear seat DVD entertainment system to keep passengers entertained on the road. Acadia’s Color Touch Navigation System is vivid, easy-to-use and integrates seamlessly with SiriusXM® Traffic and Weather, but the 12-speaker Sony® audio system available is hard to pass up.
Image thanks to money.cnn.com