2005 Ford Explorer: Road Test
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2005 Ford Explorer ▼
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- MSRP: $27,165 -$38,050
- Invoice: $24,500 -$34,080
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Our road test for the 2005 Ford Explorer includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Ford Explorer from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Ford Explorer, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Ford Explorer help you decide if a 2005 Ford Explorer is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4WD XLT, V6 | 4WD XLT, V8 | 4WD Limited, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5 | 4.9 |
Test V8 Eddie Bauer 4WD did 8.4 sec 0-60 mph. Expect the same for a V8 AWD Mountaineer. Ford says V6 Explorers and Mountaineers do 0-60 in 10.2 sec. In practice, both V6 and V8 furnish modest acceleration from a stop, but build speed quickly. Surprisingly, no great difference in throttle response between the two engines in the 40-55-mph range. Maximum towing capacity is 7140 lb.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4WD XLT, V6 | 4WD XLT, V8 | 4WD Limited, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
Extended-use-test 4WD V8 XLT Explorer averaged 15.1 mpg in mostly highway driving over 8885 miles. Similar examples averaged 13.3-14.1 with more city driving. Test 4WD V6 Eddie Bauer Explorer averaged 17.1 mpg. Mountaineers mirror these numbers. Ford and Mercury recommend regular-grade fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4WD XLT, V6 | 4WD XLT, V8 | 4WD Limited, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.1 |
Somewhat trucky, though reasonably compliant and devoid of sloppy motions. Mountaineer's stiffer shock absorbers make it more stable than Explorer on dips and swells, but slightly less absorbent on rough pavement.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD XLT, V6 | 4WD XLT, V8 | 4WD Limited, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.8 |
Capable and confident overall, with best-in-class steering feel for both Mountaineer and Explorer, and a relatively compact turning circle for good low-speed maneuverability. Still, typical of truck-type SUVs, some body lean in turns and, compared to a car, somewhat slow reaction in quick directional changes. AdvanceTrac antiskid system and Roll Stability Control laudable features designed to help prevent sideways skids and rollovers. Explorer and Mountaineer have strong stopping power, though brake-pedal effort slightly high.
QUIETNESS
| 4WD XLT, V6 | 4WD XLT, V8 | 4WD Limited, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
Wind noise unobjectionable and low for an SUV. True noise more noticeable but doesn't interfere with normal conversation. Engines intrude only under full throttle, though V8 quieter than V6.
CONTROLS
| 4WD XLT, V6 | 4WD XLT, V8 | 4WD Limited, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.3 |
Bold, clear gauge markings. Most controls illuminated and within easy reach. Dashboard layout shared with Mountaineer, and cabin materials are of good quality, but the Mercury's brushed-aluminum look is dressier than Explorer's color-coordinated plastic.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 4WD XLT, V6 | 4WD XLT, V8 | 4WD Limited, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.7 |
Plenty of room on comfortable seats. Standard tilt steering wheel, available memory seat help custom tailor driving position. Available adjustable pedals help shorter drivers sit further from steering-wheel airbag. Outward visibility good, and available rear-obstacle-detection system adds a measure of safety when backing up. Available running boards too narrow to provide a solid step when exiting the vehicle, but wide enough to require stretching over.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4WD XLT, V6 | 4WD XLT, V8 | 4WD Limited, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Three adults can squeeze across in 2nd row, where there's generous head room and better knee and foot clearance than in most midsize SUVs. However, seat divided into three segments, and each can feel narrow and confining. Third-row seat cushion low to floor and pancake flat, but head room expansive, leg space surprisingly good. Second-row seats tip forward in single, easy motion, but access to 3rd row still for the young and/or limber.
CARGO ROOM
| 4WD XLT, V6 | 4WD XLT, V8 | 4WD Limited, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 7.8 |
Large hatch glass opens separately, dips low into tailgate for easier loading. But glass releases only via keyfob, lacks its own pull-down handle. Tailgate itself is weighty to open or close. Cargo room tight behind 3rd-row seat. Third row folds almost flat with floor for more space, but process can be awkward. Rear bay is wide, tall.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4WD XLT, V6 | 4WD XLT, V8 | 4WD Limited, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 7 | 5.6 |
Explorer is a more-than-competent overall performer with an unmatched array of useful features: available V8 power, 7-passenger seating, adjustable pedals, curtain airbags, DVD entertainment, rear obstacle detection, and standard antiskid system. Mountaineer's higher sticker price brings more-expressive styling but, in all, Explorer is the better value and a solid Recommended pick.
Total Score
| 4WD XLT, V6 | 4WD XLT, V8 | 4WD Limited, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 58 | 58 | 58 | 55.1 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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