Exploring new territories

FOR safe driving, the steering wheel activates voice command controls for phone dialing. PHOTOS BY ALVIN UY

The all-new Ford Explorer takes on the cues from the Explorer America Concept SUV introduced in the Detroit Auto Show. Adhering to Ford’s Built Tough tagline, its rock-solid structure comes in with improved handling and driving dynamics. When this writer took it out for a weekend stroll, negotiating the Explorer on twisty and hilly back roads wasn’t much of a problem despite its larger size. The width and length grew by 4 to 5 inches, giving better legroom and ride comfort. Its suspension is well adapted for bumpy roads and potholes and is complemented with a responsive electronic power steering system. This fifth-generation Explorer has come a long way since it replaced the Ford Bronco in 1990. Adding two doors and 20 years later, this all-new unibody design also allows better car-like handling characteristics.

ITS intelligent console is the command center of its entertainment, communications and interior climate controls.

The Explorer’s chief design engineer is Jim Holland, who also penned the current generation Range Rover, which probably

explains why the new Explorer looks so good. The A, B and D pillars are all blacked out, leaving the C pillar on body color that creates a floating roof effect similar to Land Rover’s roof design cues. The new 3 bar grille design is complemented with a perforated mesh that leaves a striking front.

INTELLIGENT 4WD system at a flick of a switch.

Exploring its cabin offers a plethora of interesting tech features including MyFord Touch, Ford SYNC powered by Microsoft, a Sony audio system with a touch screen that doubles as a CCTV monitor for its rear back up camera, power liftgate, power 3rd row seats that allow effortless stowage configuration, power adjust pedals and power seats with memory, intelligent access with a push start button, remote engine start keys, a panoramic sun and moon roof, plus a lot more. Exterior tech amenities include rain sensing wipers, HID headlamps and LED tail lamps. Shifting to off-road mode is just a flick of a switch away with its proprietary Terrain Management System for intelligent 4WD. This sleek new Ford SUV also has a new and more efficient powerplant with its 3.5 liter V6 that offers a more responsive kick minus the thirst for fuel. The engine churns about 290 horsepower and 255 lbs. foot of torque and is matted with a 6-speed automatic.

As a recap, this new model Explorer takes a quantum leap not only in terms of features and gadgetry, but in overall on-road and off-road flexibility and driving dynamics. Its new platform and powerplant also gives a positive sign that Ford is offering bigger vehicles that bump its SUVs up a notch in vehicle class without sacrificing fuel consumption. Its soft interior and elegant trims also give it a more opulent feel than its competitors in the same class level.

STOW 3rd and 2nd row setting allows a flat surface and extra storage cabin space. PHOTOS BY ALVIN UY

START/STOP push button

AT the push of a button, the 3rd row can be configured in various settings