Optional on all models is a 4. On the plus side, the interior is roomy and flexible, and towing capability is strong. The ride has improved over the years and the independent rear suspensions adds to its stability and responsive handling, but make no mistake—the Explorer is based on a truck platform and rides as such. Otherwise, the Eddie Bauer Edition trim level was pretty much the same as the Limited trim level. One of the nicest middle class suvs you could buy. A mild freshening brought some improvements -- and created new annoyances. As expected, mileage isn't anything to crow about, and TheCarConnection.
But considering the Explorer's mediocre engine performance, you might be better off with a more modern seven-passenger crossover if you just need a family vehicle with plenty of passenger and cargo space. In the Ford lineup, the 2009 Ford Explorer is just below the Expedition and ahead of the Taurus X, Flex, Edge, and Escape in terms of exterior size and capabilities. What's New for 2009 For 2009, the Ford Explorer gains standard trailer sway control, an added feature for the stability control system. Of course there's always the Explorer's available 292-hp V8, but even that engine lacks the low-end pull of competitors' V8s, and increasingly, their V6s as well. Front-row seats feature extended seat tracks to better accommodate a wider range of occupant heights, while the second row is available in three seating configurations and the third row offers a power folding feature. A beautiful Ford on a beautiful Beijing day, painted in a pretty shade of blue.
Higher gas prices and fierce competition from more space- and fuel-efficient crossovers have reduced the appeal of Ford's former star. Exterior Inspired by Ford's F-150 pickup truck, the Explorer has a prominent grille and liftgate, as well as squared-off taillamps and dual-beam headlamps. Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer Edition An ultra cool and ultra large Explorer Eddie Bauer Edition, seen in the far east of Beijing under a cold winter sun. The 24-valve V8 delivers a marked increase in horsepower, along with increases in maximum towing and payload capacities, to 7,300 and 1,520 pounds, respectively. Distinguishing this generation from the last is probably most difficult from the side, but look closely and you'll find thicker roof rails, larger and more distinct wheels and bigger side mirrors.
Exterior Inspired by Ford's F-150 pickup truck, the Explorer has a prominent grille and liftgate, as well as squared-off taillamps and dual-beam headlamps. While both ride and handling are improved all around, the balance remains very much in favor of comfort, with handling characteristics that fall short of more car-like competitors, such as the Nissan Pathfinder. We bought the Eddie Bauer which had every feature. The ride is smoother than that of other truck-based utes, and the independent rear suspension adds to its stability and responsive handling, but make no mistake—the Explorer is based on a truck platform and rides as such. Power-Folding Third Row Not only do the two rear rows fold almost perfectly flat, but the third row is available with a power folding option that makes it easy to transform the Explorer from people-mover to cargo-hauler and back at the push of a button. Other Cars to Consider Shoppers who need even more seatbelts should take a look at the.
Pairing up with the available engines are two transmissions on the Ford Explorer 2009 lineup, one for each engine type. The standard features on the 2009 Ford Explorer are numerous. Passenger volume comes in at 106. ColorFilter selectedColorList, 'exteriorColorFilter', 'exteriorColorName', 'Color', 'colors', null ;. Difficult to repair due to access. In terms of resale value, we expect the freshened Explorer to hold its value just slightly better than the similarly-priced Chevrolet Trailblazer and , but to fall below the and.
Reviewers noted that the Explorer is by no means fun to drive, but its all-weather abilities and towing capacity, combined with its smooth ride on the pavement, make the Explorer a good compromise between solid off-roader and suburban family hauler. Safety All major safety equipment is standard on the 2009 Ford Explorer, including antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and first- and second-row side curtain airbags. Too bad they're changing it into a crossover soon, what a shame! The Explorer competes with the Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Nissan Pathfinder. Notably, these include greater towing capacity and, on four-wheel-drive versions, a dual-range transfer case with a low gear for greater off-road capability. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard with the V6 engine, while the V8 comes matched to a six-speed automatic. Inside the Ford Explorer, 2009 brings an interior that scores well overall with reviewers. This version of Ford Explorer's refinement and handling didn't match that of its newer car-based competitors.
The Explorer is capable off-road, comfortable on-road and has a well-made interior. However, the Acadia offers significantly better safety scores and outstanding cargo space for the class. The current version of the Explorer, introduced in 2006, is the best one yet in terms of promising some truck-like towing and hauling ability while still also allowing comfortable and safe transport, but today there are better options for a roomy, versatile family vehicle. In addition, both rear rows of seats now fold almost completely flat just two degrees from horizontal , so cargo is more likely to stay in place. Not just a bunch of any air bags, but second generation air bags. .
If you want a more car-like ride, there are many crossovers to consider. Both engines come with standard rear-wheel drive, and either can be mated with a choice of Ford's ControlTrac four-wheel drive or full-time all-wheel drive if you want extra traction. Performance is adequate, though the Explorer lags behind most rivals. The top-of-the-line Explorer Limited features monochromatic paint, 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control with a separate rear air-conditioner , power-adjustable pedals, a power-folding third-row seat, heated front seats, a power front passenger seat and seat memory for the driver. In addition, the availability of Sirius Travel Link for the navigation system helps bring the Explorer up to date with current traffic conditions, gas prices at nearby stations and even sports scores and movie listings. The features list on the 2009 Ford Explorer, both standard and optional, is enough to put a smile on just about any driver's face. Many of the upper trim's features can be had as options on the lower trims, including a third-row seat with or without a power-fold feature , rear-seat climate control and an upgraded stereo.