And it has the smoothest ride we’ve encountered over such terrain.įor maximum fuel economy, front-wheel-drive versions of the 2015 Ford Explorer can be equipped with an optional 2.0-liter, four-cylinder EcoBoost engine. It also includes hill start assist and hill descent control.įuel economy with the base V6 engine on front-wheel-drive Explorer models is an EPA-estimated 17/24 mpg City/Highway, or 17/23 mpg City/Highway on 4WD models.Įven with regular all-season tires, the Explorer will blast through sand or traverse deep ditches and steep hills, no problem. Although the Explorer does not come with low-range gearing, 4WD versions of the Explorer get Ford’s Terrain Management system, which allows the driver to select from four modes for optimal traction in a variety of driving environments. Front-wheel drive is standard, four-wheel drive is optional. Powering all 2015 Ford Explorer models except the Sport is 3.5-liter V6 that makes 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The result is more car-like driving dynamics, as well as significant weight savings, which translates to better fuel economy. This current generation of the Ford Explorer, introduced for 2011, features a one-piece, unibody design rather than a ladder-type truck frame with a separate, bolted on body. All 2015 Explorer models come standard with a front-passenger knee airbag.

Options on Explorer Limited models include a lane departure warning system, heated steering wheel, and a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column. Entry-level models now ride on 18-inch aluminum wheels.Įxplorer gets major revisions for the 2016 model year. A number of advancements introduced on the Sport edition were added to regular 2014 Explorers.įor 2015, a new optional appearance package for the SLT edition promises sport-inspired design details, including black bodyside cladding, 20-inch machined aluminum wheels, and leather-trimmed heated seats with suede inserts. Using Premium gas, Explorer Sport makes up to 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque.

New for 2013 was an Explorer Sport trim with a twin-turbocharged version of Ford’s 3.5-liter V6 engine, a sport-tuned suspension and all-wheel-drive. It delivers the function and family-friendly features of a minivan with the rugged appeal of an SUV. Ford Explorer is among the best seven-passenger sport-utility vehicles available.

2015 ford explorer limited edition