2015 Ford Explorer Quick Spin Review

The 2015 Ford Explorer is due for a major makeover for the next model year, yet it still has so many advantages that it was the top-selling vehicle in its segment during the past one. Plus, the medium crossover offering three rows of seating for up to seven occupants does introduce a new appearance package for the popularly positioned XLT model. With that package, the Explorer’s hallmark versatility is complemented by some serious style enhancements.

Styling

In its standard configuration, a confident stance, a detailed, metallic grille, and newly standard, 18-inch aluminum wheels help provide the Explorer with a ready-for-anything exterior design, while Ford boasts that the Explorer cabin provides a comfortable environment at all seven seating positions. The upper trim levels layer on the lux details, with the Explorer Sport standing out with an aggressive, athletic appearance and the new XLT package showcasing 20-inch, machined-aluminum wheels with painted pockets as well as body-side cladding and roof-rack rails done in black; the grille, mirror caps and liftgate applique in Magnetic Metallic; and leather-trimmed and heated seating that’s set off by contrast stitching and suede inserts.

There are three new exterior colors, too, including the Magnetic Metallic mentioned above, Bronze Fire Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, and Caribou Metallic.

Performance

As you might guess from a Ford product, the 2015 Explorer serves up a solid dose of EcoBoost power. In fact, it offers two, including a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder unit that makes 240 hp and 270 lb.-ft. of torque while pushing EPA grades up to 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway/23 mpg combined. The much-heralded 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 holds down the other end of the spectrum by serving up 365 hp and 350 lb.-ft. of torque in the Explorer Sport. Filling the slot between the two is a standard, naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6, with this one able to make 290 hp and 255 lb.-ft. of torque.

Each engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, with the EcoBoost choices relying on Ford’s SelectShift unit for added control and manual-style gear changes.

Additionally, in a nod to its SUV roots, the Explorer boasts a 5,000-lb. max tow rating as well as available intelligent all-wheel with Ford’s multi-mode Terrain Management System.

Safety

The 2015 Ford Explorer can be ordered chock-full of safety measures, including expected options like a Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, a lane-keeping system, collision warning, brake support, a rearview camera, Active Park Assist, Hill Descent Control, automatic high beams and rain-sensing wipers. But there also are a few Ford-specific benefits, too, ranging from inflatable second-row seatbelts (at the outboard positions) and Curve Control, which combines throttle reduction and four-wheel braking to help the Explorer maintain safe speeds when the road curves.

Per NHTSA, the 2015 Ford Explorer has received a 5-star overall safety score for its crash-test performance.

Pricing and Features

Ford has set the MSRP of the 2015 Explorer at $30,700, then offers up a smorgasbord of content features, including a SYNC with MyFord Touch setup that is backed by navigation, an 8-inch center-stack touchscreen, two 4.2-inch gauge cluster screens, voice control, and multiple input jacks and USB ports. A 12-speaker Sony audio system also is available, as are other premium amenities such as the Ford “MyKey” technology to monitor younger drivers, a dual-panel moonroof, climate controlled front seats, a heated second row, and a power-folding third row.