2011 Ford Explorer

For 2011, the Ford Explorer is completely redesigned, right down to its construction. Previously a body-on-frame SUV, it is now a unibody, with a base configuration of front-wheel drive. The new platform is in good company as it underpins the Taurus, Flex, Lincoln MKS and Volvo XC90.

Exterior wise, the Explorer looks more defined, tighter and more aerodynamic. Engine wise, the previous 4.0-litre V6 and 4.6-litre V8 are replaced with a 3.5-litre V6.

The Explorer uses a 3.5-litre V6, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Trim levels are the Base, XLT and Limited, all available in front or four-wheel drive, and all with three rows of seats.

If you do need to off –road, V6 Explorers can be equipped with a terrain management control knob based on the Land Rover’s system. Offering snow, sand, mud and normal modes, the system will also include a hill descent mode for low-speed off road maneuvers.

With a length of 197.1 inches and a width of 90.2 inches, including the exterior mirrors, the latest Explorer is fair amount larger than the outgoing model and it’s one of the largest in its class, measuring in just three inches shorter than a GMC Acadia.

Inside, the new Explorer features more room and three rows of seats, as well as a unique dashboard. Ford says that the Explorer features its highest quality interior, to date.

Ford offers the 2011 Explorer, in three configurations. The base model is equipped with 17-inch steel wheels with wheel covers, a 4.2-inch LCD screen to display vehicle information, cruise control, power windows and locks and a tilt and telescope steering column.

Features on the Base, include 17-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, hill start assist, trailer tow prep package, CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input and engine block heater.

The XLT adds 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlamps, chrome door handles, SecuriCode keypad entry, ten-way driver and six-way passenger power-adjustable heated seats, MyFord Touch, Sync, and Sirius satellite radio.

The Limited is packed with 20-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlamps, power-folding mirrors, driver’s side memory, power liftgate, remote starter, 110-volt outlet, power-adjustable pedals, ambient lighting, Sony-branded stereo, intelligence access with pushbutton start, back-up camera and leather-trimmed seats.

Pricing for the V6 starts at $28,190, plus an $805 delivery fee. The XLT model comes in at $31,190, while the Limited variant starts at $37,190. With every possible option, a fully-loaded Limited will list for around $48,000.