Story & photos by Tet Andolong
TODAY the Ford Explorer is one of the most admired sport-utility vehicles (SUVs) as it stands out in the midsize SUV category on account of its rugged look, comfort, versatility and for its many credentials, such as being named the Luxury Car of the Year at the World Marketing Awards in 2016. In the Philippines, the Explorer is a dream car for many people and here are the top five reasons why:
Eye-catching exterior
The exterior of the new Explorer Sport exudes ruggedness with its robust design. The high-gloss black grille speaks of confidence in every movement, especially with the presence of the Explorer badge, which sets a very strong presence. The Explorer’s massive front end, wide body and low roofline make it distinct. The heightened signature three-bar grille with mesh in between and the new rear spoiler help improve aerodynamics. To some extent, the exclusive 20-inch machined aluminum wheels help improve its ride and handling.
The black plastic trims surrounding the lower panels emphasize the vehicle’s sculpted body. The dual exhaust tip chrome finish that match the top-mounted spoiler and LED tail lights are definitely nice touches, but there is a proverbial fly in the ointment, as it’s difficult to see what’s ahead when it’s raining due to inadequate illumination, specifically on wet asphalt, even when the fog lamps are on.
Luxurious interior
Once you step inside this seven-seater SUV, the upscale interior and sophisticated ambience are immediately noticeable. The Explorer has a power panorama roof, makes of use premium materials and is fitted with two-toned leather-wrapped seats that are contoured to give a snug and comfy seating position. The cockpit layout has controls and switches within easy reach. It even has buttons embedded in the steering wheel, which has paddle shifters, while the standard knob is positioned close to the driver. As for the rear cabin, every passenger will definitely appreciate, not only the leg room, but the amenities and cupholders that serve each passenger as well. Apart from the center console air-conditioning controls, the Explorer has roof-mounted air vents and ceiling lights. With sufficient air vents, the dual electronic automatic temperature control can easily produce a cold ambience under the hottest of external temperatures. Even with a third-row seat, the vehicle still has a lot of cargo space in the back.
Accessing the rear cargo is easy via the remote control or button handle that lifts the tailgate automatically. With just a push of a switch with several modes available, the third row will fold, forming a platform, and in no time, the rear becomes a huge cargo area wherein a relatively tall person would have to step in to reach the far end.
Loaded with Smart technologies
The Explorer offers smart key-less entry. You can even start the engine using the Intelligent Access with Push Button Start, which allows for unlocking and starting when the key is within 3 feet from the vehicle. This feature is used to turn on the air-conditioning so it can start cooling the interior before you enter the vehicle.
Some of the changes made in the interior include new door seals, an enhanced sound package with engine subframe mounts especially tuned to reduce vibration. With the MyFord Touch instrument cluster, the gauge display flashes vital and real-time information. The center panel houses the 8-inch LCD touchscreen for audio, devices and other configurations. The main Sony in dash 21-speaker audio system, as well as two headrest video monitors provide for entertainment in the rear. A first in its segment and exclusive to its class, the new Explorer Sport has a front mounted 180-degree camera with washer. The wide-angled front camera lenses eliminate the hassles of blurry screens when parking.
The Explorer Sport is equipped with Smart-Charging USB ports, which are in the front and rear sides of the vehicle. USB ports are designed to charge smart devices up to two times faster than conventional ports—an ideal for those always on-the-go.
Another smart technology is the Hands-Free Liftgate, which is a convenient tool that allows customers with preoccupied hands to easily open or close the Explorer Sport’s liftgate.
“The new Explorer Sport continues to lead the way in innovation, power and performance in a smart vehicle that you would want in an SUV,” said Lance Mosley, Ford Philippines managing director.
Superb performance and handling
On the road, the Explorer Sport demonstrates exquisite quietness and comfort. For a smoother driving experience, the Explorer’s powertrain is a 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine mated to a six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission. The vehicle delivers 370 hp of power at 5,500 rpm and 475 N-m of torque at 3,500 rpm. Given the combined power and force ratings, it can easily produce flat out, rapid acceleration. Not one, but two forced induction mechanisms were employed to closely duplicate the muscle from a standard V8 engine.
“Our EcoBoost engine is the perfect example of technology that optimizes performance. We’ve also made sure to keep the new Explorer Sport’s adventurous personality while continuing to offer fuel efficiency without sacrificing power. We’re confident that the new Explorer Sport will exceed the expectations of our customers yet again,” Mosley said.
You’ll start to feel the jolt from the spooling twin turbos just above the low-end range, and beyond that, is an impressive flat torque putting you at high speed limits in no time. But the most compelling observation was how the Explorer Sport performed on the 60-km mountain highways involving tight winding curves with constant ascents. The sports tuned front and rear suspension proved to be an excellent match with the forceful engine. The handling and control were impressive and it feels as if you’re driving a compact and light vehicle whenever it enters and exits every curve.
Advanced security features
This SUV is equipped with cutting-edge and reliable safety features, such as inflatable second row safety belts, standard front and knee airbags, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, perimeter alarm and tire pressure monitoring system, among others.
With the Front Park Assist technology, the Explorer helps drivers during stressful parking situations. Its sensors warn the driver of oncoming vehicles. With this feature, you can easily park with more ease and confidence.
When it’s time for the descending stretch, the manual mode becomes ideal for downshifting and engine braking. When engaged, the hill descent control (HDC) reveals its ability by actively applying brakes to maintain within the preset speed.
For the stopping ability, the Explorer comes equipped with four large diameter rotors, antilock brake system (ABS) and electronic brake force distribution (EBD). Considering the size of the Explorer Sport, the rearview camera with accurate patterns made reversing easier, not to mention the constant alarms from the proximity sensors that keep you alert in order to avoid a collision.
Out-of-town trips, long highways and demanding road conditions are the Explorer’s playgrounds, and this is why the vehicle is one of the favorites among SUVs. However, stretching its legs with the amount of power available also requires an utmost respect in driving it. For the price of P 2.905 million, you can go farther with the new Explorer Sport.
Thumbs Up
- Powerful V6 EcoBoost Twin-turbocharged engine
- Quick steering response
- Expansive cabin with premium amenities
- Quiet and comfortable ride
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Thumbs Down
- Inadequate illumination on wet asphalts
- Huge A-pillars blocking some view at certain angles
Specifications
- Vehicle: Ford Explorer Sport
- Type: Midsized SUV, Large-sized Crossover
- Engine:5 liter V6 Twin-turbocharged with EcoBoost gasoline engine
- Maximum power: 370 hp at 5,500 rpm
- Maximum torque: 475 N-m at 3,500 rpm
- Transmission: Six-speed Select Shift automatic transmission with manual mode
Dimensions
- Overall length: 5,010 millimeters
- Overall width: 2,000 mm
- Overall height: 1,790 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,860 mm
- Curb Weight: 2,130 kilograms
- Tire Size: 255/50 R20
- Price as tested:905 million
Image credits: Ford Philippines, www.futureautoreview.com, Tet Andolong