2010 Ford Explorer: Road Test
2010 Ford Explorer ▼
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- MSRP: $28,880 - $38,200
- Invoice: $26,950 - $35,432
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Our road test for the 2010 Ford Explorer includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Ford Explorer from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Ford Explorer, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Ford Explorer help you decide if a 2010 Ford Explorer is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.5 |
No V6 Explorers have been made available for us to test. V8 versions provide ample power. A 2WD Explorer Limited did 7.4 sec 0-60 mph in our test. The transmission changes gears smoothly and delivers quick part-throttle downshifts for fine around-town response. Some testers say full-throttle downshifts take too long, however.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, V8 Explorers averaged 15.1 mpg with 2WD and 15.0 with 4WD. All use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.8 |
Explorer is among the best-riding traditional SUVs. Explorer is compliant, even with 18-inch tires, and is devoid of sloppy motions. Note that 20-inch tires are also available on Limited and XLT AWD models, but no versions so equipped have been made available for testing.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 |
Typical of a traditional SUV: Some body lean in turns and delayed reaction in quick directional changes. Steering feel is responsive and accurate, but some testers want more road feel. Good brake pedal feel with no undue nosedive in quick stops.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.9 |
Among the quieter SUVs of any stripe. Wind and road noise are well-muffled. So is noise over bumps. The engines intrude only under full throttle.
CONTROLS
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.4 |
Explorer has large, clear main gauges. The transmission shift lever prevents easy access to climate controls. The dashboard design puts the radio just out of easy reach. The turn signal stalk is mounted at an awkward angle. Rear climate controls are set into the ceiling and are difficult to read.
DETAILS
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
Interior materials feel solid, and assembly quality has been good on all models tested. There are many hard plastic surfaces throughout the interior.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 6.2 |
Plenty of room on comfortable seats. Entry and exit are complicated by a fairly high step-in. Outward visibility is hindered some by thick roof pillars, but 2nd- and 3rd-row headrests fold to reduce obstruction.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
Three adults can squeeze across in the roomy 2nd row. Legroom is tight only with the front seats fully aft. The 3rd-row seat cushion is low to the floor, pancake flat, and the floor shape obstructs foot space. But 3rd-row headroom is expansive and legroom is surprisingly good. Second-row seats tip forward with relatively little effort, but access to the 3rd row is only for the limber. Available power running boards automatically deploy when a door is opened, but they don't extend far enough to be as useful as they could be.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 7.3 |
Opening hatch glass is handy, but the hatch itself is heavy to open and close. Second- and 3rd-row seats fold nearly flat for ample cargo room, but leave gaps large enough for smaller items to fall through. The optional power-folding 3rd row is a real convenience. Aside from a large console box, interior storage is meager.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 5.1 |
Explorer is a highly competent overall performer with an outstanding array of available features. These include V8 power, seven-passenger seating, and a power-folding 3rd-row seat. Its traditional truck-type design serves trailering needs without giving up much refinement to lighter-duty midsize crossover SUVs.
Total Score
| 2WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/18-in. wheels | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 65 | 66 | 55.9 |
Total Score: 66
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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