Ford Explorer: A must read if you are planning to buy this 7-seater SUV

Ford Explorer has not been that popular in the Philippines, as compared to the other ASIAN countries. Simply because there is nothing that competes with it here. Look at vehicles like the Mitsubishi Montero or even the Isuzu D-Max. These have been quite the rage here. They are big but not as much as the Ford. They have also built a name for reliability, something the Explorer is yet to get to. The price may also be a deterrent for some. So, what are the factors one should consider while buying this brute American car? We tell you.

Massive engine

Yes, the Ford Explorer packs a huge engine, just like its size. There are two engine options in fact. Both are built out of the same block, and the higher one measures 3,500 cubic capacity in swept volume terms. This EcoBoost motor consists of twin turbos and makes 365 PS of raw power and has 475 Nm of torque from its V6 heart. The engine is mated to a fast shifting 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The motor and transmission combo enables the Ford Explorer to race to 100 kmph in less than 7 seconds. That is nearly hot hatch territory. The flip side of this is the economy. EcoBoost have known to be efficient while giving drivers their fair share of fun as well. This one boasts a real-world economy of 7 kmpl in the city and 9.4 kmpl on the highway. 

Mini Range Rover

Ford’s association with Jaguar Land Rover at some point may have resulted in the idea of the Explorer. Some high sitting boffin may have thought of getting under Jaguar’s skin by making a Range Rover competitor. Nearly same engine specs, size, and opulence. At half the price. The idea seems to have worked as well. The Ford Explorer is then a cut Range Rover. Replace the badges on either car and perhaps even the designers will be flummoxed at the similarity. Right from the bread box stance to the way the alloys or even the grille is designed. 

Everything reeks of the bigger Rangie. We aren’t complaining though. If someone gives you a sports car for half its price, will you complain? The interior too is luxurious and inviting. Just like the inspiration then. Given that there are so less Explorers sold here, you will also be guaranteed an exclusivity.

Opulent interior

The Ford Explorer has an interior befitting a king. Everything here seems to have some sort of electrical connection. Imagine not even having to open your own fuel lid? Now, that’s fancy. One can adjust the front seats in eight different ways, separately fiddle around with the lumbar and backrest adjustments. All of this with a memory setting for three different folks. Wow! There is more here. Even the accelerator, brake, and more can be set electrically. The rear seats can be flipped electrically, turned, and stowed away. This, of course, creates more space for luggage and facilitates easy entry and exit for the passengers. Ohh, the mirrors, as well as the moonroof too, are entirely powered. Just brilliant then. Hazardous in case of an electric failure but.

Acres of space

We don’t usually recommend the third row of any car. Unless it is the Hiace, of course. However, if you are looking to buy the Explorer, we will wholeheartedly recommend the last row of seats to even grown-ups. There is tonnes of space and one will feel quite comfortable. Be it whichever seat. There is also 500 litres of boot space with all the seats up. Remember, all these seats and storage spaces are managed electrically. The Explorer comes from America land and was built for Americans. As we all know, Americans like their stuff big, similar to the Chinese. We stand to gain from their largesse with respect to the Explorer. Hehe!

Best ride and handling package

Of all the available SUVs in the Philippines market today, the Ford Explorer is one which has the most sorted ride and handling aspect. You see, manufacturers usually ignore one part while trying to perfect the other. This means while you have the most perfect ride quality on your SUV, the handling will be roly-poly and vice versa. We liked the fact that Ford spent close to two years just fine tuning the Explorer’s dynamics. The 20-inch alloys do little to take away the stellar ride quality while the firm enough suspension ensures that the car tracks cleanly. A rare combination indeed. Prod the V6’s accelerator, and you will know how this one performs. You will be pushed back in those leather seats, but it will not be a rude awakening.

So, there you have it. Want a more comfortable car than the Explorer? Look at the Range Rover V8 instead. On a serious note, it is hard to beat the Ford here especially given the value for money proposition that the vehicle brings to the table. The safety tech is pretty high too with this one, and crash tests corroborate that the Explorer is one safe vehicle too.