Yesterday, the 2011 Ford Explorer was unveiled. Ford has redesigned and reinvented their mid-size SUV, giving the new Explorer better styling, fuel economy, performance, technology, and safety features. We’re impressed with the changes we’ve seen so far and think it’s sure to be a winner in its class.
2011 Ford Explorer - Mid-Size SUV Gets New Platform, More Capabilities
Design
Based for the first time on a car platform and not a truck one as in previous years, the Explorer’s design is much cleaner and more modern-looking for 2011. Not only does it look better, but it’s more functional too, offering more head and shoulder room, three rows of seating, and plenty of cargo space. What’s more, the 2011 Explorer provides a much quieter ride for its passengers with the use of an advanced noise, vibration, and harshness control system.
Fuel Economy
Quite possibly best feature of the new Explorer is its exceptional fuel economy. Its improved engine – a 290 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 featuring twin independent variable camshaft timing – gives the Explorer 20 percent better fuel economy than the 2010 model; and its new 237 horsepower 2.0-liter EcoBoost™ engine is expected to improve fuel economy by more than 30 percent. Ford also reduced the weight of the Explorer for 2011 to make the SUV more fuel efficient.
The 2011 Explorer also comes equipped with a unique six-speed automatic transmission that combines lowered initial gears, for improved acceleration, with higher gearing, for better fuel economy when cruising at lower engine rpms. An intelligent four-wheel drive system with terrain management is also available to tackle any driving conditions. These enhancements have made the Ford Explorer one of the top performers, with the best fuel economy in its class.
Safety
For 2011, the Ford Explorer comes stocked with safety features. Standard safety features include an advanced airbag system, SOS Post-Crash Alert System™, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Also available on new Explorers are adaptive cruise control, BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System), and the world’s first inflatable seatbelts for second row passengers.
Technology
Ford makes driving an Explorer even better with the technology features available in the 2011 models. MyFord Touch™ driver connect technology and Ford SYNC® communications and entertainment system make it easy for drivers to stay connected while keeping their focus on the road. The Explorer also offers a Sony® Audio System with HD Radio™, MP3 connectivity, an SD card reader and RCA video jacks, an 8-inch LCD screen, and a voice-activated navigation system.
With its modern design, high performance capabilities, class-leading fuel efficiency, and advanced safety and technology features, the 2011 Ford Explorer is sure to be a favorite among SUV fans.
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