The new generation Ford Explorer beats Dodge Durango and Jeep Grand Cherokee to win the North American Truck of the Year award. The 2011 Explorer really deserves this title, not just becasue of its new fancy looks, but because it is a very efficient and yet very capable SUV. Some of the highlights of this car include class-leading fuel economy, available industry-exclusive second-row inflatable safety belts and Intelligent 4WD with an advanced Terrain Management System.
The win by Explorer marks the seventh time a Ford has been North American Truck of the Year, with Ford dominating in the truck category. Last year, Ford Transit Connect was the winner. The best-selling Ford F-150 pickup won the honor in 2004 and 2009; the fuel-efficient Ford Escape Hybrid won in 2005. This is the 18th year for the Truck of the Year award.
“It’s a proud moment for Ford, our employees and our customers to have Explorer named North American Truck of the Year,” said Mark Fields, Ford president of The Americas. “Winning this honor for the third consecutive year confirms our One Ford plan is working to deliver vehicles people truly want and value, with industry-leading quality, fuel efficiency, safety and smart technology.”
The North American Truck of the Year award recognizes vehicles based on factors that include innovation, design, safety, handling, driver satisfaction and value for the dollar. A jury of 49 veteran automotive journalists from the United States and Canada vote for the vehicles, which must be “all-new” or “substantially changed” from the previous model to qualify for the award.
