Ford Explorer AWD

The Ford Explorer AWD XLT 4.0L is fitted with 4.0L V6 SOHC rather than the 4.6L V8 found in many Ford SUV's. Unusually, the Explorer 4.0L V6 will not run on E85 gasoline, this is a glaring omission as many of the competitors are compatible with E85 and the use of renewable fuels is a major attraction for environmental consumers. The latest version of the Ford Explorer has rollover and stability systems fitted as standard, no doubt due to the $82.6 million lawsuit against Ford, brought by a woman paralysed in a roll-over accident. Ford has made heavy use of this "exclusive roll stability control" feature in recent marketing in an attempt to counteract the awful publicity. The Ford Explorer AWD is a capable working vehicle, with good towing capacity and off road performance. The highway manners are much improved over Explorer's of old, with independent suspension all round, the Ford Explorer is a smooth highway performer. A 5 seater (in XLT trim) with optional third row, with standard specification including; 5 speed automatic transmission, keyless entry, cruise control, air conditioning, power windows, tailgate and doors, the Explorer is well equipped even in this entry level model. The four wheel drive system makes this model slightly thirstier than the 4x2 XLT, with EPA figures of 13mpg city/19mpg highway (4x2 XLT 14mpg city/20mpg highway). However, if you need the added traction, a reduction of 1mpg is worth paying!