Strengths

Standard safety equipment list; quiet cabin; city driving comfort matched with towing and off-road capability.

 

Changes

The venerable Ford Explorer has been the best-selling SUV since its birth in 1990. The Explorer is more powerful, safer and more comfortable than ever. These days, the Explorer looks less like a large SUV and more like a station wagon and similar to many of its fellow car-utility vehicles. The Explorer sees few changes for 2010.

 

Value

The 2010 Explorer has the passenger-carrying capabilities of a mid-sized SUV combined with strong towing and off-road capabilities. Safety equipment includes standard stability control with a rollover sensor, as well as Ford's Trailer Sway Control, which works to keep a towed trailer in line once it begins to pitch. The Explorer also offers third-row seating for additional passenger capacity. The base rear-wheel-drive XLT starts under $30,000.

 

Overview

The 2010 Explorer is offered in three trim levels: XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited, and in rear-, four- and full-time all-wheel drive. The Eddie Bauer edition is not available with an all-wheel drive powertrain.

Standard on all trims is a 4.0L V6 engine, which produces 210 horsepower @ 5100 rpm and 254 pounds-feet of torque @ 3700 rpm. It is mated to a 5-speed automatic with overdrive, and a 6-speed automatic transmission is available on all trims. A 4.6L V8 engine is optional across the range and cranks out 292 horsepower and 300 pounds-feet of torque.

Anti-lock brakes and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control and Trailer Sway Control are standard on all Explorers, as are dual front, side seat and a full complement of airbags.

XLT trims come standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, cruise control, a stereo with MP3 capability, tilt steering wheel with integrated audio and climate controls, power driver's seat, power windows, mirrors, and locks and a split-folding second-row seat.

Eddie Bauer trims come standard with two-tone exterior accents, 17-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, leather upholstery, third-row seating, satellite radio, SYNC communication system, Bluetooth, a 10-way power driver's seat and automatic headlights.

Limited trims come standard with 18-inch chrome-clad wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, an upgraded audio with 6-CD changer, power-folding third-row seats, a reverse-sensing system and heated front seats.

Notable options available on all trims include rear parking aid, remote engine start, trailer hitch receiver, running boards, a variety of sunroofs, adjustable pedals, a navigation system and DVD entertainment package.