Conditionally modest / Ford test drives

In America, this SUV has become a real star — it is even used in fashionable collaborations. For example, rapper Funkmaster Flex together with Ford released a special series of Explorer (more details in MOTOR, May 2007). In Europe, this is hard to imagine — they have their own idols. In Russia, the American auto industry in general and the Explorer in particular are treated with less prejudice. And yet, this model has never been a sales hit here. Perhaps the reason is that against the background of many "classmates" from the USA, it looks too modest.

The third generation Explorer appeared back in 2001, and even then it did not stand out externally. The 2006 restyling was vitally necessary for the car. The main change is a new front end with an abundance of chrome. The radiator grille now smoothly transitions into the bumper, and the headlights extend onto the fenders and received round sections for turn signals. When looking at them, for some reason I remembered the headlight update on the Ford Fiesta.

The sides are pure American design: calm lines, without a hint of expressiveness. But on the front fenders, V8 badges are displayed, which serve as decoration. Chrome mirrors and roof rails also add charm.

The Explorer is built on a frame, but with independent suspension on all wheels. After the restyling, not only the appearance changed — the technical side was seriously updated. The frame became 50% stiffer in torsion and bending. The rear suspension was also refined: new arms should improve smoothness and handling. The body mounts to the frame were reworked to reduce vibrations and improve steering precision.

The interior is a separate story. At first, the dark cabin did not impress me, but after a few hours behind the wheel, I changed my mind. The plastic, although it looks rough, feels pleasant to the touch, and the assembly is solid. The design is simple, without frills, but for an SUV this is normal. Even the gearshift lever, resembling a switch, looks appropriate. There are also successful details — for example, the instruments recessed into an oval well with chrome trim. Ergonomics are decent, but not ideal. The main complaint is the overloaded steering column stalk. The seats are comfortable, although lateral support is practically absent.

In the rear, a block with a DVD player and LCD screen is built into the ceiling; wireless headphones and a remote control are included. Plus a powerful music system — it turns out to be a real car cinema for four. In the test car, the second row consisted of two separate seats (the so-called captain's chairs, an option for about $1400). Between them, a spacious console box is attached. The third row hides in the trunk; the seats fold out electrically by pressing two buttons. In the "gallery," even adults of average height are comfortable. If not for the "VIP layout" of the second row, the Explorer could be called a full-fledged seven-seater. What a modest guy: DVD, automatic seats, separate seats!

On the road, the Explorer also commands respect — for its dimensions and decisive appearance. If you see such an SUV, it is better to yield: it accelerates excellently, even with unexpected agility. Over 1500 km of testing, I had not a single complaint about dynamics — neither at start nor during overtaking. The 4.7-liter 24-valve Triton paired with the new 6-speed automatic works clearly. The only thing that upset me was the thoughtfulness of the automatic transmission during a sharp kick-down; the reaction to pressing the pedal is delayed. But upshifts are quick and smooth. Fuel consumption is impressive: about 20 liters on the highway, and all 30 in the city!

Ride quality? I was prepared for compromises — after all, it is a body-on-frame vehicle, but the car pleasantly surprised me. The steering is simply excellent: both on a straight line and in corners, it gives a clear picture of the position of the front wheels, with no "wandering." Second is the composure on the move. Yes, it leans in corners and dives under braking, but this does not prevent feeling the car as a single whole. I did not strain behind the wheel. On the highway, I hit the limiter at 170 km/h — the Explorer does not want to accelerate further, and the creators consider this correct. I agree, faster would be dangerous, especially because of the brakes. This is the only thing I had to get used to: the pedal requires serious effort, and there is little information on it. The first couple of times I even managed to trigger the ABS in harmless situations. The brakes are also prone to overheating if you squeeze everything out of the engine — but most owners, I am sure, will not do that.

On any surface, the car flies easily and comfortably; the driver does not need to watch every pothole. High-profile tires and energy-intensive suspension make the Explorer owner the king of bad roads. If a luxury sedan overtakes you on good asphalt, do not be upset — in a couple of kilometers on a broken section, you will swap places. Noise insulation is at a high level: it is quiet in the cabin even at maximum speed. Off-road, the Explorer also does not give up. All-wheel drive with a locking center differential and low range, plus a sturdy suspension and tires with off-road tread — this is enough for most situations. It is not surprising that America adores the Ford Explorer: solid dimensions, a nice and richly equipped interior, a powerful engine, and decent on-road behavior. Europe, of course, is alien to American values, and there is no diesel in the lineup. But in Russia, the car's prospects are tied to a relatively low price and off-road charisma. Fans of body-on-frame construction have not died out yet, and such a union with an overseas character may appeal to many.

PRICES AND TRIM LEVELS

The most affordable Explorer — XLT with a 4-liter V6 (213 hp) and a 5-speed automatic — can be taken for about $48,990. The LTD version with the same engine and gearbox costs from $55,450. The special Eddie Bauer series (distinguished by interior trim and exterior decor) with the engine and transmission as in the test car will cost $59,490. The top trim — Explorer LTD — is priced at $59,760.