New 2009 Ford Explorer

A leader in the midsize SUV class, the 2009 Ford Explorer continues its tradition of expert towing and off-road capabilities with a touch of refinement to make everyday driving comfortable and enjoyable.

Available in four amenity-laden trim levels, the Explorer offers a base 4.0-liter V-6 engine flexing 210-horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking just a bit more strength, a 4.6-liter V-8 giant under the hood with 292-horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque will assuredly satisfy most car buyer’s appetites. Mated to a five-speed standard automatic transmission, specific trim levels offer six-speed automatic, in addition to two- or all-wheel drive to handle any road conditions and the ability to haul up to 7,300 pounds of cargo.

Up against the likes of the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Nissan Pathfinder, the Explorer’s Sync system is a unique feature that, in the American automaker’s exclusive partnership with Microsoft, allows for hands-free voice-recognition control of phone and other music player devices. New for this year, the Explorer provides a trailer-sway control system and a new standard SOS-Post Crash Alert System that unlocks the doors and activates the horn and emergency flashers if the airbags deploy in an emergency situation. And gas mileage is above-average for this segment, posting a fuel economy of 13-15 MPG city and 19-21 MPG highway across a choice of styles.

Seating up to seven passengers, the Explorer presents a pleasant drive compared to other truck-based SUVs. Rear independent suspension is to thank for this, which extends a smooth ride and keeps the wheels planted on rough pavement. Steering is sharply responsive and power assists low-end torque and refinement.

The Explorer aims to keep drivers and passengers secure and confident in all driving conditions. Standard accents include antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and first- and second-row side curtain airbags. The stability control system includes rollover sensing and government crash tests earned the Explorer a perfect five stars in all frontal- and side-impact crash tests.

With an overall package rugged enough to handle the off-beaten path or carrying more than normal, along with interior luxury sure to please, the 2009 Ford Explorer is a strong candidate for election as your new car choice.