Ford sees no future for old-school (truck-based, V-8) SUVs, at least not as mass-market vehicles. For the Explorer to survive, it needs to become more fuel-efficient, both to make customers more likely to buy one in the face of $4 per gallon fuel (which could return at any time) and also to please Uncle Sam, who's demanding that all new vehicles, trucks and SUVs included, return 35.5 miles-per-gallon by 2016.
The '11 Explorer will feature an advanced form of stability control called Curve Control designed to automatically correct for driver error (such as carrying too much speed into a corner) by modulating engine power to the drive wheels and applying braking force to keep the vehicle on track. It's similar to current electronic stability control units but Ford says it works 10 percent faster and more effectively.
The optional AWD system will feature driver-selectable terrain-sensing (setting for rain, snow, gravel, etc.) similar to the systems used in Land Rover models.
Third row seating will still be available - and the new unibody design should allow for a roomier interior.
IV Sport/Performance cars
The '11 Explorer will feature an advanced form of stability control called Curve Control designed to automatically correct for driver error (such as carrying too much speed into a corner) by modulating engine power to the drive wheels and applying braking force to keep the vehicle on track. It's similar to current electronic stability control units but Ford says it works 10 percent faster and more effectively.
The optional AWD system will feature driver-selectable terrain-sensing (setting for rain, snow, gravel, etc.) similar to the systems used in Land Rover models.
Third row seating will still be available - and the new unibody design should allow for a roomier interior.
IV Sport/Performance cars
