Introducing Ford Motor’s Explorer. The new optional 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 shares the same 3-valve cylinder heads and variable cam timing used on the 5.4-liter Ford F-150 and Mustang GT V-8. Delivering 292 hp (53 horses more than the previous 4.6-liter 2-valve V-8) and 300 lb.-ft. of torque, it’s mate to the first-in-class 6-speed automatic transmission, with a wide first-to-sixth ratio spread that improves both low-end performance and high-number fuel economy.  The V-8 also churns out exciting performance and very satisfying sound. The standard 4.0-liter SOHC V-6, upgraded for 2006, has new calibrations and controls that reduce emissions, while new spark plugs and a new camshaft improve idle quality by 40 percent. The shift lever has been moved from the steering column to the center console in the 2006 Explorer because of that new adaptive steering column that collapses in stages in a crash.

 

Explorer’s all-new frame is 63 percent stiffer in bending and 55 percent more rigid in twisting, enabling great improvements in ride, handling steering response and interior quietness. The cross members pass through the framerails, creating inherently stronger joints. Combined with more precise manufacturing techniques, this solid structure also helps to significantly reduce long-term squeak and rattle. The new trailing-arm independent rear suspension is lighter and stronger than the previous short/long-arm design. The new control-arm front suspension—also lighter and stronger—like the rear uses monotube shocks tuned to take advantage of the stiffer frame for excellent ride with less harshness. The standard 4-wheel-disc brakes—with ABS, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist—are redesigned for improved heat dissipation.

 

 The new interior has improved accommodations throughout, including a 3rd row that is actually habitable by full-grown adults. More comfortable front seats ride on extended tracks that allow nearly one half inch more travel for ample front legroom. There are three configuration choices available for the second row: 60-40 split bench, reclining 60-40 split bench, or bucket seats with a console. Both second- and third-row benches fold flat on 7-passenger configuration, while the available 50/50 back-row bench has a new power-fold option—a class exclusive in the midsize SUV segment—and is raised 1.75 inches for better visibility. New articulating head restraints, providing enhanced safety, can be folded down for better rear visibility when the seats are unoccupied.

 

A new “media” button on the steering wheel lets you toggle among satellite radio, DVD player, CD player and the radio.  It has a 290-watt, six-disc Audiophile stereo. It offers a monochromatic exterior, more interior amenities and a chromed 4-bar grill. The inside door handles are nicely integrated into the forward ends of the armrests, literally at your fingertips, and the window switches are a more intuitive push-pull design. Ridges on the roof help keep it from vibrating, and the larger outside mirrors manage airflow very effectively. They actually reduce wind noise to a level that’s lower than having no side mirrors at all. The HVAC system is 30 percent quieter with improved performance.

 

The ‘06 Explorer boasts 10 standard safety technologies, the most in its class, seven of them new to the segment. Among these are a five-level front passenger sensing system, standard front side airbags, adaptive airbag venting, and an adaptive steering column.  Also, a four-inch-thick foam block between the inner and outer front door panels helps manage crash forces, and the new armrests and door trim help cushion the body during a side impact.

Filed under: Ford Cars in India