2007 Ford Explorer: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Power running boards and a heated windshield are new options for 2007 on Ford's best-selling SUV. Explorer has a truck-type design and offers rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement and has low-range gearing. Two engines are available: a 210-hp V6 and a 292-hp V8. Both use automatic transmission; the V6 has a 5-speed, the V8 a 6-speed. The model line ascends through XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited trim. Offered on all is a 3rd-row seat for seven-passenger capacity; it's available with a power folding feature. Front side airbags are standard. Optional on XLT, standard on the others are curtain side airbags that cover the 1st and 2nd seating rows and include rollover deployment. ABS is standard, as is traction/antiskid control with rollover sensors. Also available are 2nd-row bucket seats, navigation system, DVD entertainment, sunroof, rear obstacle detection, and power-adjustable pedals. Ford retrims the Explorer for sale as the Mercury Mountaineer.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choice is the Honda Pilot. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Dodge Nitro, Ford Edge, GMC Acadia, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-7, Mazda CX-9, Saturn Outlook, Suzuki XL-7, and Toyota FJ Cruiser.