2018 Ford Explorer in Lenoir, NC - $20,613

Last updated in 2016, the Ford Explorer SUV features generous interior space and is engineered specifically for people seeking adventure for their families and a way to express their individuality. “Rugged” is the word that inspired the designers creating the look of the Ford Explorer. Available in Base, XLT, Limited, Sport and Platinum trim levels, the top-of-the-line Platinum further elevates the full-size SUV in look and feel, with changes to both the Explorer exterior and interior. From multi contour front seats wrapped in Nirvana leather with micro-perforation, to special quilted stitching used throughout, advanced standard technologies, Platinum elevates Explorer in ways customers can see and feel.

Base power is generated by a 3.5L V6 engine. Sport and Platinum models are outfitted with a 3.5L EcoBoost V6. A 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder prime mover is optional for Base, XLT and Limited. Torque is communicated to the ground through a 6F50 six-speed SelectShift Automatic with paddle activation for the base engine; a 6F55 six-speed SelectShift Automatic for the upmarket 3.5L EcoBoost V6; and a 6F35 six-speed SelectShift Automatic for the optional 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder. All wheel drive is available for Base, XLT and Limited; standard for Sport and Platinum.

For the first time on Explorer, the four-cylinder EcoBoost engine can be paired with available tow package and the automaker’s intelligent four-wheel drive with Terrain Management System™.

The Explorer also benefits from robust control hardware that contributes to precise handling and a quiet cabin, enabling a comfortable ride even when the pavement turns to dirt. Ford has tuned the Explorer chassis to clearly differentiate the driving experiences of XLT, Explorer Sport and Platinum models. The suspension uses MacPherson construction with an isolated subframe and 32-millimeter stabilizer bar at the front, while an independent multilink rear setup uses a 22-millimeter stabilizer bar.

Explorer Sport customers looking for a more dynamic driving experience will benefit from unique steering gear, front and rear springs, struts and rear dampers. Explorer also features a tower brace that provides additional stiffness between strut towers. The tower brace for Explorer equipped with four-wheel drive is three millimeters thicker for even more stiffness – providing better control and a smoother ride on rugged terrain. The new Explorer, with standard 18-inch and available 20-inch wheels, offers new tire options for improved ride and handling while still reducing road noise in the cabin.

Inside the passenger cabin, an enhanced sound package includes engine subframe mounts specially tuned to reduce vibration, as well as a specially tuned exhaust for the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. Acoustic glass is used on the windshield and front doors reflect desires customers expressed through Ford consumer research. The Explorer offers consumers more technologies than previous models, with features that enhance the driving experience.

Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 112.8; overall length: 198.3; width: 78.9; height: 70.0 (FWD), 71.0 (AWD)
All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 3.5L V6 – 290 hp at 6,500 rpm and 255 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm; 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder – 280 hp at 5,600 rpm and 310 lbs-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm; 3.5L EcoBoost V6 – 365 hp at 5,500 rpm and 350 lbs-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm.
Transmission: six-speed automatic with paddle activation
EPA Fuel Economy: 3.5L V6 – 17 city/24 hwy. (FWD), 16 city/23 hwy. (AWD); 2.3L four-cylinder EcoBoost – 19 city/28 hwy. (FWD), 18 city/26 hwy. (AWD); 3.5L V6 EcoBoost – 16 city/22 hwy.
Cargo capacity: 81.7 cubic feet
Towing capacity: 5,000 lbs.

Safety features
Dual front airbags, dual front seat mounted side impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags with rollover sensor, front passenger knee airbag, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, AdvanceTrac with roll stability control, traction control, Curve Control, hill start assist, daytime running lamps, automatic headlights with LED low beams, integrated blind spot mirrors, battery saver, individual tire pressure monitoring system, remote keyless entry, rear view camera with washer, SecuriLock passive anti-theft system, and SYNC communications system. 4WD adds front recovery hooks, hill descent control, and terrain management system. XLT adds fog lamps, intelligent access with push-button start, and perimeter alarm. Limited adds adjustable pedals with memory, front 180-degree camera with washer, hands-free liftgate, universal garage door opener and navigation system. Platinum adds automatic high-beam headlights, LED fog lamps, adaptive cruise control with collision warning and brake support, enhanced active park assist with parallel parking, park out assist, reverse perpendicular parking and forward/side sensing systems, lane-keeping system, and rain-sensing wipers.

Optional safety features include: remote engine start system, forward sensing system, blind spot information system with cross traffic alert, and rear outboard seat inflatable seat belts.

Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile
Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 5-year/60,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MRSP) for the 2018 Ford Explorer SUV starts from $32,140 for the Base upto $53,940 for the Platinum. Destination charges add $995.