2014 Ford Explorer – What comes around, goes around. That maybe happened to the new generation of Ford Explorer. If you’re familiar with the rough and rugged truck-based SUV with that agile driving dynamics that will bring you to the highest sporty feeling level of the current Ford Explorer, then you will be extremely surprised now if you find out that it will be more tame for the 2014 model year.
Exterior
As we know that some rugged features like 2-speed transfer case and V8 engine is no longer available in 2014 Ford Explorer, making it now have sleek and smooth performance with high fuel efficiency. Available pragmatic features include rearview camera and MyFord infotainment system seems to strengthen the changing image of the sporty explorer to the family friendly crossover. For the appearance, the new Explorer also has left its boxy design but still keeping its muscular curves. It is clearly highlighted by the creases that flowing across the sides starting from the front wheels. On the rear side, it offers one-piece lift gate while dual exhaust pipes is located below to add the sporty look. Ebony grille, darkened wheels in 17 to 20-inch model, and blackout treatment headlights also make the sporty image of the Explorer level ups. That’s why this car is absolutely bigger than 2014 Audi RS7.
Interior
2014 Ford Explorer surely maintain its original look by giving minor changes to the exterior design, but it doesn’t go the same way as the interior since it is considered the best in its class. Though its cargo space and leg room is not as much as its rivals, 2014 Ford Explorer has one of the biggest cabin on its class that is enable to accommodate up to seven passengers, while five adults will be comfortably fit in the front two rows. Many drawbacks in the last explorer including its plastic-material cabin may has not been fixed, but the metallic plastic on the center stack could be an excuse. Cloth upholstery is available for the lower trim level while leather is available for the upper level.
Engine
2014 Ford Explorer offers three engine line up including the standard 3.5 L V6 engine that delivers 290 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque, the smallest 2.0L Turbocharged inline-4 EcoBoost engine with 240 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, and the top one that is exclusively plant for the sport model, 3.5L V6 EcoBoost engine that pulls out 365 hp and 350 lb-ft or torque. All Explorer’s transmission is 6-speed automatic.
Price
The base model will start at $30,495, while the mid-level XLT model will be $33,495. Higher cost will be needed if you decide to buy the Sport model, it is about $41,675
