Finally after a number of pointless and stupid teasers, Ford takes the wrap off the all-new 2011 Explorer SUV, revealing a new amazing look and a whole bunch of innovations! They have reinvented the vehicle and claim it’s going to set new standards in terms of fuel efficiency, safety, technology, capability and quality.

The new generation Ford Explorer looks quite crisp and modern. Old versions of the car have always had a sense of dullness about them which is totally gone now! The new model follows the same trendy design language that makes all new Fords kinda alike. Despite the excessive funkiness, it also manages to retain its character as a Explorer and that’s good.

It also has an all-new interior with many new and amazing toys. Those cheap and crappy dashboards we used to get in American cars are a matter of past, because they finally got the hang of it and realized how to make proper interior! And this Ford too features a neat design with superb craftsmanship. The new SUV features more head and shoulder room, three rows of flexible seating, and room for everything families want to take along on their adventures.

By default the new Ford Explorer is available with front-wheel drive with a 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine, delivering an estimated 290 horsepower and 255 lb.-ft. of torque. An intelligent 4WD system that adds terrain management system like those you get in Range Rovers is also available as an optional extra.

As you’d expect Ford has put a great effort into making the new model as efficient as possible. Apart from the extensive weight reduction program which has made the 2011 Explorer 100lbs lighter than the last one, the engines too feature advanced technologies to reach maximum economy. They are including:

Twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT)
Latest Ford EcoBoost engine
Six-speed automatic transmissions
Electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) to significantly reduce parasitic power loss
Intelligent four-wheel drive (4WD)
Variable-displacement air-conditioning compressor
Optimized tires for reduced rolling resistance
Slippery aerodynamics with harmonized front air dam and rear liftgate spoiler

You may also get the an EcoBoost turbocharged and intercooled I-4 engine for the Explorer which features direct injection and delivers a projected 237 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 250 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,700 through 4,000 rpm. Both powertrians also feature Ti-VCT system which allows individually optimized camshaft timing of valve opening and closing events to improve mechanical efficiency while delivering increased power and reducing part-throttle emissions. Standard transmission is a six-speed automatic.

The new Ford Explorer comes with a large list of standard safety features, including:

AdvanceTracwith RSC features Curve Control functionality to provide braking – optimized by each individual wheel
Second-generation first-row airbags, side seat airbags
Belt-Minder® for driver and first-row passenger
Front passenger sensing system
Energy-management system pretensioning for height-adjustable first-row seat belts
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system for outboard second-row positions, for safely securing child safety seats
SOS Post-Crash Alert SystemTM
Safety Canopy® side curtain airbags
Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Available Explorer safety features include:

Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support
BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert

For the sake of a peaceful and stress-free drive, 2011 Explorer features some new technologies. One of the best ones is the EPAS system that allows for variable rates of assistance based on speed, turn-in and direction. In addition to optimized steering feel, tight on-centering and appropriate resistance, EPAS provides a fuel economy benefit in comparison to traditional hydraulic power assist systems. EPAS also enables a competitive turning radius for optimum maneuverability in parking situations, combined with increased assistance at low speeds for parking ease.

EPAS allows for the addition of Curve Control, a new feature that senses when a driver enters a turn too quickly and applies brake pressure to stabilize the vehicle. In addition, EPAS enables the optional active park assist technology. When activated, the system scans for a suitable spot, calculates the trajectory, and steers the vehicle. The driver continues to control brake and throttle inputs, but the system steers the vehicle throughout the parking maneuver.

Explorer models with V6 power are rated to tow a maximum of 5,000 pounds. To aid with hookup – especially when alone – a reverse camera with zoom-in functionality is available, allowing a driver to back up to the trailer on-center. The Explorer towing package includes trailer sway control – a stability package shared with the Ford F-150 pickup – to help minimize trailer sway. Trailer brake controller wiring is also included, as is a tow/haul mode. Engaging tow/haul mode increases engine braking to help slow the vehicle and trailer when descending steep grades.

Standard convenience features include:

MyForddriver connect technology including 4.2-inch LCD screen
MyKeyTM owner control feature
Air filtration system
Media hub
Easy Fuel® capless fuel filler system
Cruise control
Power windows, with one-touch down for driver
Power door locks with child safety rear door locks
Tilt/telescoping steering column
Four 12-volt power points
Cargo hooks

Explorer XLT includes standard content and adds:

Automatic headlamps
Six-speed SelectShift AutomaticTM
Heated sideview mirrors with LED signal indicators and security approach lamps
SecuriCodeTM keyless entry keypad
Reverse sensing system
Perimeter alarm

Explorer Limited includes all base and XLT content, plus:

PowerFold® sideview mirrors with driver’s side memory
Ambient lighting
Adjustable pedals with memory functionality
Cargo net
Dual-zone electronic temperature control
10-way power driver’s seat, with power recline and lumbar
Electrochromic interior mirror
Rear view camera
Remote start system
110-volt outlet
MyFord Touchdriver connect technology
Intelligent Access with push-button start
Universal garage door opener

“The all-new Explorer will deliver today’s SUV buyers the attributes they really want and value, and a few they might not even have dreamed of,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. “We’re proud to introduce the new Explorer to customers and fans around the world today and pleased to begin a whole new era that blends strong SUV fuel economy and performance.”

“The new Explorer simply does everything well,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “It raises the bar for ride and handling on the road and transforms the off-road experience. It’s the hands-down winner for towing capability and ease. All this capability – and three rows of seating – with amazing fuel economy will make Explorer the absolute right choice for families with a sense of adventure.”

“It had to look modern and contemporary – inside and out – yet be instantly recognizable as an Explorer,” said Holland. “Next, the new Explorer needed to deliver the fuel economy today’s customers want, combined with the performance, capability and empowerment they expect from an SUV.”

“Crafting a high-quality vehicle is like preparing a gourmet meal,” said Peter Bejin, craftsmanship supervisor. “You start with high-quality ingredients, execute your recipe with flawless preparation and finally, present it with flair and panache.”

“We spent our time listening to customers and addressing their needs to launch an SUV that reinvigorates the Explorer nameplate and delivers on Ford’s promise of high-quality, fuel-efficient and technologically advanced vehicles with industry-leading safety,” said Holland. “The all-new Explorer will change market perceptions about SUV style, fuel efficiency, technology and user-friendliness.”