The Snow setting definitely made it easier to navigate the course. In both snow and normal mode, the Explorer's safety systems, including an advanced "Curve Control" system, are definitely in charge to get you safely on your way. If you’re confident of your superior driving prowess in all conditions, and want to have more say in what the vehicle is doing, you might find it a bit domineering.
While Terrain Management significantly improves traction, it is not designed to turn Explorer into a mountain goat. Explorer’s meager approach angles and tender and low underside would soon get you into trouble. If you really want a serious Ford off-roader, Lacasse recommends the Raptor.
This Explorer is also the first in Canada to be available in FWD versions. “We will bring 2x2 models to the fold this year, in every trim line,” notes Lacasse. “We think they have lots of potential.”
Final Tally
The Limited 4WD ($44,199) has lots of potential too. Our tester had all the bells and whistles, including the Technology Package ($2,400), second-row captain chairs ($500), dual moonroof ($1,750), Navigation ($700), 20-inch polished aluminum wheels ($600), and power up and down third-row seats ($900).
When the third row seats are down, they form a load floor flush with the cargo hold lip. When up, they reveal a “cargo pit” of sorts, with a foot or so drop. The second row captain seats fold easily forward, to help ingress and egress to those rear-most seats. While space is obviously tight back there, they will accommodate certain adults (either small or uncomplaining).
With some other options, our tester rig topped out at $51,929.
The modern SUV, in Ford’s vision, is already selling well. Now we know why…
While Terrain Management significantly improves traction, it is not designed to turn Explorer into a mountain goat. Explorer’s meager approach angles and tender and low underside would soon get you into trouble. If you really want a serious Ford off-roader, Lacasse recommends the Raptor.
This Explorer is also the first in Canada to be available in FWD versions. “We will bring 2x2 models to the fold this year, in every trim line,” notes Lacasse. “We think they have lots of potential.”
 |
| With some other options, our tester rig topped out at $51,929. (Photo: Mike Goetz/Auto123.com) |
Final Tally
The Limited 4WD ($44,199) has lots of potential too. Our tester had all the bells and whistles, including the Technology Package ($2,400), second-row captain chairs ($500), dual moonroof ($1,750), Navigation ($700), 20-inch polished aluminum wheels ($600), and power up and down third-row seats ($900).
When the third row seats are down, they form a load floor flush with the cargo hold lip. When up, they reveal a “cargo pit” of sorts, with a foot or so drop. The second row captain seats fold easily forward, to help ingress and egress to those rear-most seats. While space is obviously tight back there, they will accommodate certain adults (either small or uncomplaining).
With some other options, our tester rig topped out at $51,929.
The modern SUV, in Ford’s vision, is already selling well. Now we know why…
2011 Ford Explorer Limited V6 4WD
2011 Ford Explorer Limited V6 4WD
Article Gallery