Teresa’s View
Since its debut in 1991, the Ford Explorer has earned legendary status as the top-selling SUV on the planet. With nearly 5.5 million Explorers in garages worldwide, Ford is understandably cautious when it comes to making changes to its baby. It doesn’t want to alienate even one potential buyer. However, like any entertainer who has long been in the public eye, the Explorer was ready for some rounding and sculpting to lift and lighten its redesigned visage.
The 2006 Explorer is moderately longer, wider and taller than the version it replaces. A new 4.6-liter V8 boosts horsepower from 239 to 292 and promises improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. The available 4.0-liter V6 is carried over from 2005. Depending on the engine, a five-speed or six-speed automatic transmission is standard.
An all-new frame, based on the F-150 truck, helps to eliminate nasty squeaks and rattles to provide a quieter, more refined ride – an important attribute for traditional SUVs that are losing market share to the more civilized crossover vehicles.
Inside, the designers tidied up the dash, but someone got way too clever with the door handles, confusing what should be a straightforward operation. Some gauges can be hard to read especially in strong sunlight. The shifter was moved to the center console between the seats, which allows improved access to buttons and dials, but creates an obstacle between the driver and her latte.
Ford took this redesign opportunity to install a slew of safety features including the AdvanceTrac anti-skid system with Roll Stability Control, which detects an impending rollover and activates the anti-skid system, reducing the chance of going wheels-up. Head-protecting side-curtain airbags are now an available option. Additional adaptive safety technologies – some standard, some optional – adjust depending on the intensity of the impact, occupant size and whether everyone is buckled up. As a testament to Ford’s efforts, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration awarded the Explorer and its twin the Mercury Mountaineer, five stars – its highest rating for passenger safety in frontal and side impact crash tests.
What Is It?: The 2006 Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV with room for up to seven passengers. There are four trims offered in either 2- or 4-wheel drive — the base XLS, the mid-level XLT, Eddie Bauer edition and the luxurious Limited. All but the XLS get a choice of V-6 or V-8 engine.
The Back Seat: For the first time an all-new power folding third-row seat is offered. Entrance to the third row requires a climb over a folded second-row seat in the bench configuration. Access is easier with the optional second row bucket seats. Although legroom is nearly reasonable in the third row, the seat itself is low and flat.
Grocery Sack Test: A heavy hatch opens to a moderately sized cargo area, but add the third row and grocery sack space is reduced to a sliver.
So, Where Are Ya From?: The Explorer is built at Ford’s St. Louis and Louisville assembly plants.