Ford has travelled quite a distance in the SUV world since the introduction of its smaller Bronco II in the mid eighties. The short wheelbased truck was a real success but rapidly, consumers wanted a four-door compact SUV and Ford came up with the even more successful Explorer in 1990. With time, the Explorer was modernized to become one of the most successful SUV's ever. In 2001, Ford offers a carry-over version of its very popular four-door Explorer, a slightly revised version of its two-door Explorer Sport (a model that is still very popular) and the newly introduced Explorer Sport Trac, a semi-pick-up, semi-SUV type of Explorer.
But during the first week of August 2000, Ford Motor Company unveiled its completely new for 2002 Explorer four-door. And it has nothing to do with any former model! The new upcoming Explorer (that should very well be on the market very early in 2001) is 2.5 inch wider and has a 2.0-inch longer wheelbase than the actual model. The whole body has been redesigned and its looks more like an Expedition than like any other actual Explorer. Among the new specs, let's mention a long awaited independent rear suspension that should give the SUV a much improved roadhandling and an optional 240 hp 4.6 liter SOHC V-8 engine (that will replace the venerable 5.0 liter OHV V-8). The standard engine will remain a 210 hp 4.0 liter V6 only available in its SOHC version. Transmissions will include a new 5-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual box. The Explorer will be available in a four-wheel or two-wheel driven possibility. Other specs show that Ford has improved its Control Trac four-wheel-drive system and will include a new side-impact curtain air bag system for more safety. What's more, a little later in 2001, Ford will offer a rollover protection sensor system. Steering will be of the rack and pinion type while the wheels and tire will be 16 inchers for all versions (XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited).