2007 Ford Explorer

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. Two more Explorer firsts include a console shifter and available DVD navigation that can verbally alert you to upcoming street names. We also loved the convenient audio and cruise controls on the steering wheel spokes.


The 2007 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-seat side mounted airbags, adaptive airbag venting, and an adaptive steering column. Standard AdvanceTrac with class-exclusive RSC (Roll Stability Control) and Safety Canopy System—now standard on '07 Eddie Bauer and Limited trims—with side-curtain airbags and rollover sensor. 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.


The cabin design benefits from a concerted noise- and vibration-killing effort in every area—exterior, interior, chassis and powertrain. The available third row is as quiet at highway speeds as the front rows of some competitors and quieter than many second rows, allowing easy conversation front to back.


The 2007 Explorer has slightly lower aero drag than the former generation, which helps both fuel economy and interior noise. Ridges on the roof help keep it from vibrating, and the larger outside mirrors manage airflow effectively. The HVAC system is 30 percent quieter with improved performance. Powertrain refinements include intake manifold "valley stuffers" and added exhaust resonators to quiet induction and exhaust noises.


It's no secret that sales of full-frame, truck-based SUVs have slowed in their growth and have started to contract, primarily due to fluctuating fuel prices. Ford feels though that its much-improved midsize Explorer remains an important core product, filling the gap between its smaller Escape and larger Expedition, while providing a relatively fuel efficient alternative to the car-based Freestyle crossover, for customers who need substantial hauling and towing capabilities.