The 2024 Ford Explorer 4x4
THE Ford Explorer has admirably fiLLED THE VOID between its larger sibling, the Expedition, and its midsized diesel counterpart, the Everest. It has SERVED THIS SPECIfiC niche so well that Ford Philippines recently introduced the latest iteration of the model. On these pages, we present the updated Ford Explorer.
Think of the Explorer as the quiet yet crucial member of Ford Philippines’ SUV lineup. It caters to a specific market that demands a premium yet active SUV, one that offers the best of both worlds. The Explorer fits this bill perfectly. It exudes class, commanding attention on the road while also delivering as a sporty SUV, providing a therapeutic driving experience.
Reviewing the spec sheet of the new Explorer, one might raise eyebrows at the 2.3-liter turbocharged engine beneath its hood, especially considering the vehicle’s substantial size. However, sitting behind the wheel changes everything. The Explorer carries its weight with ease, exhibiting quick acceleration. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine proves to be a potent mill, delivering enjoyable driving performance for this midsized Ford SUV.
The 304 PS and 420 Nm of torque are transmitted to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission. The four-wheel drive system is complemented by seven driving modes — Normal, Sport, Eco, Slippery, Deep Snow/Sand, Tow/ Haul, and Trail — making the Explorer an ideal companion for adventures.
The updated Explorer boasts improved road presence with its wraparound LED headlights, giving it a sleeker front fascia appearance. Complementing the exterior are 20-inch polished alloy wheels wrapped in 255/55/R20 Michelin Primacy tires.
Stepping inside, the Explorer offers a premium interior that ensures comfort for all occupants. In addition to boasting new technology and features, the Explorer’s best attribute is its comfortable ride, providing a sense of assurance and safety.
The cabin lighting is remarkable, emanating from either the multicolor ambient lighting or the twin-panel moonroof, which allows natural light to flood the cabin. Ensuring a comfortable cabin temperature is the tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control, allowing passengers to regulate the climate inside the vehicle.
For those who prioritize in-car entertainment, the Explorer features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with SYNC 3 voice-activated technology, enabling hands-free mobile device pairing. Music enthusiasts will appreciate the 12-piece Bang & Olufsen speaker system.
In addition to the feeling of safety provided by its cozy cabin, the Explorer ensures every drive with its Co-Pilot360 Assist+ Technology. What sets this technology apart is its subtle yet effective alerts and inputs, avoiding distractions for the driver.
While I initially believed that being a passenger was the best way to experience the Explorer, driving it proved to be equally enjoyable. Despite its long and imposing exterior appearance, driving the Explorer was surprisingly pleasant. The steering was light, making it easy to get accustomed to, and the power delivery was surprisingly swift, giving the SUV acceleration similar to a compact crossover. More than just offering a comfortable ride, the Explorer provides pleasurable drives, catering to both chauffeured and driven preferences.
Fuel economy may not be a major consideration for models in this price range, but for the sake of record-keeping, I was able to achieve around 13 kilometers per liter (kpl) on a smooth highway drive and around 5 kpl in heavy EDSA traffic — impressive numbers for a midsized petrol SUV.
At P3.498 million, the latest iteration of the Ford Explorer offers everything one could desire from a premium SUV in a midsize package, with Ford going above and beyond to make it suitable for an active lifestyle. The significance of the Explorer in Ford Philippines’ SUV lineup lies in its ability to solidify the brand’s range by serving a specific niche of discerning customers who know exactly what they want. Having experienced the latest Explorer, I believe its importance will endure.