The Ford Explorer has been one of the most popular SUVs since it was introduced in the early nineties. But today the Explorer is being overshadowed by the new car based SUVs such as the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV-4 and even the new Ford Edge.
Crossovers are where the segment is going and for the next generation Explorer, Ford is going to ditch the body-on-frame design that has been part of the Explorer since it was introduced. This month Ford is going to unveil the Ford Explorer America concept at the Detroit Auto Show. The concept is based on a unibody design and is similar in size to the current Explorer. According to Ford the Explorer America concept provides hints of what the new Explorer will look like when it is released later this decade.
In addition to the new design Ford is also placing an emphasis on fuel economy. The concept ditches the current Explorer V6 and V8 engines for more fuel efficient powertrains. A 4-cyl 2-liter engine with EcoBoost technology delivering 275 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque and a 3.5-liter V-6 delivering about 340 hp are part of the new concept. Ford claims that depending on engine selection fuel economy should improve between 20 to 30 percent over the current 4.0L V6.
Stay tuned for more details from the show.
More info on Ford's new engines:
Detroit Auto Show Preview: Ford Unveils EcoBoost Turbo Direct Injection Engines
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PRESS RELEASE:
FORD TO REVEAL NEW FUEL-SAVING CONCEPT IN DETROIT
The Ford Explorer America concept showcases a new kind of utility for the vehicle customers have known and loved for years: even better fuel efficiency.
"Customers are smart. They value vehicles – the more efficient, the better," said Jim Farley, Ford group vice president of Marketing and Communications. "Ford gets it.
"Innovative technologies can transform people's favorite vehicles. Look at SYNC, the Ford system that connects people and their favorite portable devices, including media players and Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones, while in their vehicles."
Technologies and engineering innovations help Explorer America concept deliver an approximately 20 to 30 percent fuel-economy improvement, depending on engine selection, while providing room for six and their gear as well as moderate towing and off-roading capabilities.
This smarter utility concept simplifies Ford Motor Company's systems approach for delivering sustainable vehicles, specifically demonstrating:
A powertrain lineup that includes a 4-cylinder 2-liter engine with EcoBoost technology delivering 275 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque or, as a premium engine, a 3.5-liter V-6 delivering about 340 hp. Depending on engine selection, fuel-efficiency will improve by 20 to 30 percent versus today's V-6 Explorer
Migration from current body-on-frame to unibody construction, reducing weight and delivering superior driving dynamics
A fuel-efficient 6-speed transmission with auto shift control, allowing the driver to select and hold a lower gear with just the turn of a dial when conditions warrant it
A weight reduction of 150 pounds for the V-6 version thanks to its downsized – yet superior performing – engine, as well as more lightweight materials, suspension and chassis components
Fuel-saving electric power assisted steering (EPAS) and other engine actions that deliver a fuel savings benefit of about 5 percent. Between 80 to 90 percent of Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles will have EPAS by 2012
In addition to its fuel-efficient powertrain and technologies, the Explorer America concept addresses how the SUV market has changed in the past 15 years.
In the 1990s, customers were drawn by SUVs aligned with people's adventurous, more rugged lifestyles. Today's consumers are more discerning, demanding products that are capable and flexible – but more intelligently executed.
The Explorer America concept looks the part, too, with a modern, muscular design language that belies its ability to harness today's active lifestyles. Its integrated three-bar grille, defined power dome hood, wrap-around rear glass panel window and sliding rear door give the appearance that this concept is ready for modern Lewis-and-Clark types to explore, from their own neighborhoods to the trail head.
Inside, intelligent features abound, including: single-touch stackable, sliding seats that allow for convenient access to the second row; a work table with seats deploy from the tailgate; and a three-dimensional compass and navigation unit with a topographical map built right into the instrument panel.
Comments (34)
*Forsees previously unheard of amount of bashing*
IMO, I think it's a mixed bag. Lose the glass roof, slope the front end a little and maybe touch up on the head/taillights and you have a decent looking CUV.
Posted by SEALBoy | January 6, 2008 3:47 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 15:47
wow they even managed to make the tires ugly
Posted by Charlie | January 6, 2008 3:58 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 15:58
wow! there is nothing nice about this...
Posted by bc | January 6, 2008 4:15 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 16:15
Is "Ecoboost" Ford marketing speak for Hybrid?
Posted by brad | January 6, 2008 4:25 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 16:25
I dont think its too bad.
Posted by Alex | January 6, 2008 6:16 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 18:16
Finally Ford is going in the right direction. Its a beautiful CUV. Nice to see they are innovating. This could give some serious competition to the RAV4 and the CRV. I dont understand why people dont like the new look. Hopefully the powertrain and paint quality will equal the imports.
Posted by will young | January 6, 2008 7:19 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 19:19
1) why is the Explorer cometing with the CR-V and Rav4? Aren't they in different classes?
2) I know it's a concept, but why put so much plastic on the front end?
Posted by Jim | January 6, 2008 8:28 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 20:28
This is 100% where Ford needs to go in the future; however, I just don't think it is smart to put this up against the Edge. They are two similar of a vehicle and you will not win conquests from other car companies, you will just win them from the Edge. I say, they put all their money and resources (i.e. for interior, fuel economy, and quality) into one rather then two. Just a thought, but this is an example of what Ford can do, and I hope they keep up the good work!
Posted by Ryan | January 6, 2008 8:30 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 20:30
2 liter 4-Cylinder making 275hp and 280lb-ft isn't bad at all I'd say.
Lose that compass. Ew.
Posted by Joan of Arc | January 6, 2008 9:00 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 21:00
I was under the impression that the Freestyle/Taurus X was Ford's body on frame equivalent of the Explorer.
Posted by Steve | January 6, 2008 9:06 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 21:06
I would like Ford to drop the Explorer name. The Freestyle/Taurus X is a lot better name and CUV to work with.
Having sliding doors for the rear is a nice touch, though I would have like the front to slide forward too.
Posted by Andrew | January 6, 2008 10:09 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 22:09
ive never been a fan of the explorers and im not really a fan of this one but at least ford is going in the right direction with this car. If it can manage the fuel economy that is promised and be reliable at the same time this would be something worth considering.
Posted by unknown | January 6, 2008 10:51 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 22:51
Sliding doors on any SUV is a step in the right direction. +2 for usability.
Ecoboost is most likely the same thing VW is doing with the twincharging (turbo + supercharger) where they're getting 175 horse out of a lightly tuned 1.4L.
Posted by Matt | January 6, 2008 11:30 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 23:30
I have doubts about the headlights. I know they are LEDs, but they seem too narrow to me. It might work if they put in very bright LED's, but that would piss off other drivers...
Posted by SEALBoy | January 6, 2008 11:31 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 23:31
Wow! 2009 and concept vehicles still burn gas. I'm ashamed for everyone.
Posted by Coupe | January 6, 2008 11:36 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 23:36
Wow! 2008 and concept vehicles still burn gas. I'm ashamed for everyone.
Posted by Coupe | January 6, 2008 11:37 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 23:37
Couldn't tell if it was an '08 or '09 release. *shrugs* Got my bases covered, i guess :P
Posted by Coupe | January 6, 2008 11:39 PM
Posted on January 6, 2008 23:39
The front "face" looks like it's been blindfolded and gagged.
Posted by WS | January 7, 2008 9:35 AM
Posted on January 7, 2008 09:35
I own a 2004 EB edition explorer and I like it alot, I am not sure about this concept vehicle, but it does look really neat, the interior is clean, and I love the roof, I could do without the funky pod things (florecent green thingys) but even the nose, I know some have made comments on it, too bad they did not have a night shot of it, cause I bet it looks really cool, I especially love the cutout tail light effect I think its great, the sliding doors, is brilliant and a long time coming for any vehicle not just the SUV/CUV market, been around in minivans for so long....
I think its a good looking vehicle. It could have been way worse....
Posted by Don | January 7, 2008 9:47 AM
Posted on January 7, 2008 09:47
"4-cylinder 2-liter engine with EcoBoost technology delivering 275 hp and 280 lb.-ft. of torque" - this is the most interesting part of the article to me. Those numbers enable amazing performance numbers in small, light cars.
"3.5-liter V-6 delivering about 340 hp" - thats 40hp more than BMW's. As I said, drop it in the Mustang.
As to the new Explorer, overall, I *gasp* like it. That's the right direction. Assuming Ford sticks close to this in the production vehicle, it will sell well. Would I buy it for me? No.
Posted by Kell | January 7, 2008 10:53 AM
Posted on January 7, 2008 10:53
Yeah that part I did not touch on but I agree those numbers are exceptional, and 60HP more than the current 4.0 lite v6 in my current explorer, and if we can get better gas mileage with the same size vehicle its in the right direction.
Those who state we are still using gas engines in 09 are crazy to think that electric, or all hybrids are going to just sweep the market, because they are not. It takes time to change an industry, as well hybrids still have to be mature, and improve to match all gas platforms to date. Right now they just do not do it.
The hybrid escape really does not get much more mileage overall than the 3.0 24valve does. Not enough to make it worth the switch. Especially when most people do not know that battery powered vehicles are enviromentally worse than gas vehicle because you have to factor in battery manufacturing, and disposal and those effects.
Anyway I do have one question and I dont know if anyone sees it in the picks, where are the side view mirrors? =)
Posted by Don | January 7, 2008 11:02 AM
Posted on January 7, 2008 11:02
I'm betting the side view mirrors are those small rectanglular sections just in front of the side windows - probably a powered in/out exension for the mirrors. That would be cool no? Good for parking larger SUVs in compact-designed parking spaces without bumping mirros.
I know some Chevy's have power-mirros similar to this, only they move "flat" against the side of the vehicle for easier parking.
Posted by Brett | January 7, 2008 11:44 AM
Posted on January 7, 2008 11:44
Looks good, but I don't see any mention about the towing ability. One thing the crossovers can't do very well is tow anything over 3500 pounds.
If this new Explorer maintains the towing capability of the current Explorer, it'll probably be a winner.
Posted by Peter Stern | January 7, 2008 12:22 PM
Posted on January 7, 2008 12:22
I can't imagine that any of the interesting things (good or bad) about this vehicle will make it to production. Visually speaking, this is too far out in concept-land to really pay any attention to. The final vehicle may be great, but I don't believe it will look like this. Once you put a normal interior in it, and a normal grill on the front, then remaining overall body shape will just be odd and blah. (Chubby and rounded like some of the changes on the new ... Xb.(?))
Posted by Rod | January 7, 2008 1:02 PM
Posted on January 7, 2008 13:02
Based on the same engine tech, I wonder what you would get out of a 5.0L V8....
Posted by Adam | January 7, 2008 1:02 PM
Posted on January 7, 2008 13:02
So they've taken the good parts of the minivan and removed them so they can call it an SUV. Not a good idea. The sliding doors were a great idea, mini vans have had them for decades, now they take and put that long ugly console all the way to the center seats to make the rear seats inaccessible thereby keeping the bad part of the SUV. Come on Ford, let's get with it. The last good van idea you had was partnering with Nissans Quest and calling it a Villager. Now look at your competition and determine why people are buying them. Sure you will always get some of the testosterone crowd with big ugly vehicles that look like a tank. Those folks won't sell you millions of vehicles and make you a profit.
Posted by Kevin Wallace | January 7, 2008 1:08 PM
Posted on January 7, 2008 13:08
Lol, ugly tires!. Please loose the green 'X', yes, I know its a concept, but it ugly.
Sliding doors, no, this is NOT a minivan (Ford, look at the Honda Element, or Xtera).
Loose the center console and give my passengers cup holders, this is not a sports car.
Too much plastic in the front.
The only good thing is that this is a "concept". I obviously don't like it.
Posted by JD | January 7, 2008 5:40 PM
Posted on January 7, 2008 17:40
That pic of the speedometer looks like #2's controls on the bridge of the enterprise.
Posted by carluver | January 7, 2008 9:46 PM
Posted on January 7, 2008 21:46
Now of course this is just a concept and everyone nknows that the production model may share some of the concepts features but it isn't going to look close to this concept.
Posted by SteelCity1981 | January 8, 2008 3:53 PM
Posted on January 8, 2008 15:53
"Peter Stern:
Looks good, but I don't see any mention about the towing ability. One thing the crossovers can't do very well is tow anything over 3500 pounds."
I can't remember the last time I seen anyone towing anything other than an atv or jet ski with one. I don't think most of the people looking at a crossover will be too worried about towing.
"Adam:
Based on the same engine tech, I wonder what you would get out of a 5.0L V8...."
The 2.0L puts out 137hp/liter. The 3.5L puts out 97hp/liter. So, 485hp to 685hp. Would not be too shabby for a factory vehicle, but I've seen 5.0L's pushing many more horses than that.
It's nice to know Ford is starting to look at different ideas for powertrain development. I hate the front end, and the interior is almost as bad, but like others have said it's just a prototype and will be a lot more normal looking when released. I know I wouldn't want to get caught in one of these midwestern hailstorms with a glass roof, though.
Posted by Todd | January 8, 2008 7:28 PM
Posted on January 8, 2008 19:28
uhh looked ok from the front, the tires wow needs work, and why does the CUV look like so thin?? i mean the windows are tiny!!!! which doesn't make sense when they do that to cars so if there is a collision from the side blah blah blah lol!!!!! ohh well hopefully they do some more work on it but a good start!!!!
Posted by Cruse | January 25, 2008 12:52 AM
Posted on January 25, 2008 00:52
I actually like everything about it. Yeah, the first time I saw it I thought it was a little iffy all around but the more you look at it and read about it, it is absolutely amazing. I mean 20-30 % better mpg's and a 4 cylinder 2L engine in a large CUV and has the same if not better performance status than the current Explorer.
Posted by Tyler | July 3, 2008 11:25 AM
Posted on July 3, 2008 11:25
I actually like everything about it. Yeah, the first time I saw it I thought it was a little iffy all around but the more you look at it and read about it, it is absolutely amazing. I mean 20-30 % better mpg's and a 4 cylinder 2L engine in a large CUV and has the same if not better performance status than the current Explorer.
Posted by Tyler | July 3, 2008 11:29 AM
Posted on July 3, 2008 11:29
I actually like everything about it. Yeah, the first time I saw it I thought it was a little iffy all around but the more you look at it and read about it, it is absolutely amazing. I mean 20-30 % better mpg's and a 4 cylinder 2L engine in a large CUV and has the same if not better performance status than the current Explorer.
Posted by Tyler | July 3, 2008 11:30 AM
Posted on July 3, 2008 11:30