August 2002 Volume 83 Number 8 "serving the protectors"
Motoring
By Jim Barnett

Explorer hits back

The Ford Explorer was once the best-selling four-wheel-drive vehicle in the world. But the previous model did not sell strongly in Australia. The reason, some felt, was a suspension system not up to our tough conditions.

But Ford has hit back. Its all-new Explorer boasts improved suspension, a wider body, new interior, a fabulous new V8 engine and a slick new five-speed automatic transmission. Available in XLT and Limited specifications, its longer wheelbase makes the new model look longer and lower, but its overall length is the same.

Ford claims Explorer’s hefty new chassis is 350 per cent stiffer, with a 26 per cent increase in vertical and lateral bending resistance. Although stronger, the chassis is low and compromises ground clearance and ramp-over angles for the serious off-roader.

On the up side, it would do everything most owners would demand of it, including serious towing. Explorer comes standard with a 1,600kg tow bar, or will tow up to 2,500kg with an optional heavy-duty kit.

Its new, fully-independent suspension system underwent extensive testing in Australia, and provides greatly improved ride and handling characteristics on all surfaces. It also provides good load-carrying capacity.

Inside, Explorer feels more spacious, thanks to its increased width. Ergonomics are generally better, particularly for the driver. The new dash layout is more pleasing to the eye, and all-round visibility is good. Rear seating consists of three individual buckets that are relatively comfortable and easily fold forward for flexible load space.

A massive cargo area is accessed by a large lift-up tailgate with flip-up window. It is wide, flat and features under-floor storage wells, which are used to house the optional third-row seats.

Power is supplied by an improved 4.0-litre (157kW) V6 or an optional 4.6-litre (178kW) all-alloy V8 engine. An XLT fitted with the V8-auto combination proved, on a Police Journal test, very comfortable and provided effortless power, smooth gearshifts and greatly improved handling, particularly on rough gravel roads. Fuel economy was reasonable – the V8 used around 17 litres per 100/km on a road test that included boat towing.

Ford has improved its Control Trac 4x4 system, with dash-mounted buttons used to select Auto, High or Low settings. The Auto setting can be used on all surfaces, and in this mode a computer continuously monitors and adjusts front-wheel torque.

A five-seat, manual V6 XLT ($50,500) is comprehensively equipped with a host of comfort, convenience and safety features. The V8 auto XLT ($54,000) has a seven-seat option which adds $2,500 to its price. Limited ($64,000) comes standard with the V8-auto combination, third-row seats and a long list of additional safety and luxury items.

Freight-train power

You might have seen a TV commercial in which Ford’s new F250 ute pulls a road train out of a bog. So how powerful is this ute? Frankly, it has the power of a freight train.

The Police Journal tested the four-wheel-drive single-cab XLT model, with its huge 7.3-litre turbo-diesel V8 engine driving a six-speed manual gearbox. This engine delivers 175kW of power and a massive 684Nm of torque. While some might question the value of such a vehicle, it is ideal for anyone who does truly serious towing or needs a huge ute.

Inside, XLT has a comfortable pair of big bucket seats, complete with arm rests. Naturally, the cabin is very wide and visibility is excellent, although a height-adjustable driver’s seat would be an advantage.

All models have air conditioning as standard equipment, but the XLT also has dual airbags, cruise control, power windows and alloy wheels.

This vehicle, given its enormous outside dimensions and weight, is reasonably agile. And, its ride quality is reasonable, even though the all-round leaf springs are built to carry serious loads. On rough dirt roads, it performs very well. Its sheer weight ensures it stays tidy most of the time. As a four-wheel drive, this ute has to be one of the most capable around. Its low-range reduction is the best the Police Journal has ever tested.

F250 is available in two- or four-wheel-drive models with single-, super- and crew-cab body styles. Other engines in the range include a 4.2-litre turbo diesel and a 5.4-litre petrol V8. Some models are available with a four-speed automatic transmission. The larger F350 is also available in various body styles.

Prices for the new F-Series start at $53,400 (two-wheel-drive cab-chassis) and go up to $68,700 (4x4 XLT V8 diesel).

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