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| The armrests are fairly conventional, as are the new push-pull power window and lock switches that cascade upward, but as soon as they reach the circular chunks of molded plastic that house the inner door release latches, originality takes over. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Speaking of unique, even the door panels are thoroughly updated with an attractive yet odd configuration. What makes them odd? Well, the armrests are fairly conventional, as are the new push-pull power window and lock switches that cascade upward. But as soon as they reach the circular chunks of molded plastic that house the inner door release latches, originality takes over. The latches feel awkward at first, but an upward tug unlatches the door quite easily when needed. The same goes for the grab handles underneath, placed in an unorthodox position but still working fine when closing the door. Why mention door pulls and latches? I suppose I didn't expect much design creativity in an Explorer, so I have to hand it to the new interior team for stretching a little on this one.
The seats are much more modern in appearance too, and compared to the 2005's chairs the new ones are firmer, offer better side and back support up front especially, plus feature 10-way power actuation for the driver, and when finished in leather really dress up the cabin. The XLT's cloth is nice too, mind you. Ford has ditched the peach fuzz velour from last year's model for a 21st century grade fabric that looks and feels much more appealing. The front seats can now be pushed fore and aft up to 24 mm (0.9 inches) more than previously, increasing legroom up front, or between the first and second rows.
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| Those in the second row will enjoy a reclining 60/40 split bench andplenty of room all-round. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
Those in the second row will enjoy a reclining 60/40 split bench and plenty of room all-round, while access to the third row comes via second row seatbacks that flip up, forward and out of the way. I was surprised at how much room there is in the very back, not quite up to Freestyle standards but nevertheless capable of swallowing up two adults in a pinch, and two children for hours on end. I like the larger, more comfortable headrests, and appreciate how they fold down for greater rearward visibility when not in use. The third row seat has been raised by 40 mm (1.6 inches) for better sight lines out the front, plus is split 50/50, making it possible to travel with six and a load of luggage if necessary.
