2009 Ford Explorer: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Ford Explorer is largely unchanged. This midsize SUV uses a traditional, truck-type design. It offers rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, or 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement and has a low-range gear for off-roading. Trim levels include XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited. All are available with a 210-hp 4.0-liter V6 engine or a 292-hp 4.6-liter V8. V6 models have a 5-speed automatic transmission; V8s have a 6-speed automatic. Maximum towing capacity is 5375 lb for the V6 and 7285 lb for the V8. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Offered on all is a 3rd-row seat for seven-passenger capacity; it's available with a power-folding feature. Explorer's capless fueling system allows owners to fill their fuel tanks without having to remove a gas cap. Ford's Sync voice-activated cell phone and MP3 player control system is available. The available navigation system includes real-time traffic alerts, weather, gas prices, sports, and movie information. 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 choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.