It has been argued that the 4-door SUV market was launched by the Jeep Cherokee; however, it was the Ford Explorer that ignited America’s infatuation. Over the years as the market and feature requirements have changed, Ford has been the leader in driving the technology and design movement. With the introduction of the redesigned 2012 Explorer, Ford has taken the segment to a new level and the 2013 Ford Explorer has raised it another notch.
When Ford introduced the all-new Explorer last year it just wasn’t a refresh of the previous year’s model, it was a completely new creation. Not only did they re-skin the Explorer, they also exchanged the truck-based frame with a modified Taurus architecture, which also improves the ride control and fuel mileage. They also added cutting-edge technology and new fuel efficient engine choices.
The 2013 Ford Explorer comes in four trim styles: Base ($29,995), XLT ($33,575), Limited ($38,995), and the all-new Sport ($41,675). All models except the Sport are priced as 2WD and are available with 4WD for an additional cost. The Sport comes standard with 4WD and a terrain management system that offers settings for sand, snow, mud, and hill descent.
New for 2013 includes heated steering wheels, smart HID headlamp beams that dim automatically when oncoming traffic is detected, Lane-Keeping Assist, and enhanced Ford SYNC® system with MyFord Touch®.
The 2013 Explorer is available with three engine types: 2.0-liter EcoBoost® 240 hp 4-cylinder, 3.5-liter 290hp V6, and 3.5-liter EcoBoost® 365 hp V6 (Sport model only). The first two engines are mated to a 6-speed SelectShift Automatic with overdrive and the Sport engine grouped with a 6-speed SelectShift Automatic with paddle activation. It is notable to mention that the Sport with its 3.5-liter EcoBoost® motor has the best fuel economy of any performance SUV.
The interior is impressive with excellent material quality, design, and features. The Explorer can be ordered to seat 6 or 7 passengers. The 2013 Explorer is loaded with technology attributes that keep it cutting edge. The dash feels soft to the touch versus hard plastics, and creates an upscale look and feel. There’s a deep center console in the front between the seats with a second 12-volt outlet and a change tray. The second row of seats offers decent leg room but doesn’t adjust forward or backwards; however, tilts forward to provide access to the third row of seats. The second row also has a 110-volt AC power outlet and adjustable heat and fan controls. The third row of seats fold flat and stow into the floor and is available with a Power-fold option that at a push of a button will fold and stow the seats.
The new redesigned Explorer has smoother lines and a muscular presence. The front has a bold grille with the logo bordered by chrome bars and perforated trim. The large headlights wrap around into the fenders.
Room for improvement:
- MyFord Touch is hard to use while keeping your eyes on the road
Cool Features:
- Inflatable outboard rear seat belts
- Lane-Keeping Assist
- 20-inch wheels on the Sport Model
- Possesses 2 EcoBoost® engine options
The standard safety equipment for all of the 2013 Ford Explorers are AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™), Safety Canopy® System, a side air curtain technology offering protection for the first and second seating rows, SOS Post-Crash Alert System™, MyKey® programmable vehicle key allows parental controls on driving speed, Hill Start Assist for more confidence on uphill grades, and Curve Control, which can slow the vehicle by up to 10 mph if it senses a curve is being taken too fast.
In Summary – The 2013 Ford Explorer is both a stylish and capable vehicle. It has been a consistent market leader and innovator. The new 2013 Sport model adds flare and a certain excitement to drive. The EcoBoost® engines provide explosive power with economical fuel consumption. The Ford Explorer has earned a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and having a 5-out-of-5-stars rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – it’s the complete package.
Specifications
2013 Ford Explorer Limited 4WD
Base price: $39,855 as driven: $47,710 (including destination)
Engine: 3.5-Liter 6 cylinder
Horsepower: 290 @ 6500
Torque: 255 foot pounds @ 4000
Transmission: 6-Speed Auto
Drive: 4 Wheel-Drive
Seating: 7-passenger
Turning circle: 39.2 feet
Cargo space: 80.7 cubic feet
Curb weight: 4697 pounds
Fuel capacity: 18.6 gallons
EPA mileage: City 17 / Highway 23
Wheel Base: 112.6 inches
Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper to bumper
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