Ford Explorer Receives Specification Updates | Ford

Ford Explorer

Explorer Specifications Revised

Ford Japan announced that it will partially revise the specifications of its SUV, the "Explorer," and begin sales in November.

Text by Koutaro Uekusa

Driving Assistance Systems Now Standard on Lower Grades

The Ford "Explorer," a model equipped with a downsized "EcoBoost engine" that boasts a maximum output of 179kW (243ps) and a maximum torque of 366Nm, despite being a 2-liter 4-cylinder, is now available in a body exceeding 5 meters in length. This Explorer has undergone specification changes and will go on sale from November.

Previously exclusive to the top-grade "LIMITED," two driving assistance systems are now standard on the lower-grade "2.0L XLT EcoBoost" following this specification revision. These include "BLIS (Blind Spot Information System)," which detects vehicles in the blind spot diagonally behind the car while driving and alerts the driver, and "CTA (Cross Traffic Alert)," which detects approaching vehicles from either side within a 14-meter range when reversing out of a parking space and issues a warning.

The grade lineup includes two 4WD models equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine: "LIMITED" and "XLT." There is also one FF model equipped with the 2-liter inline 4-cylinder direct-injection turbo engine, the "EcoBoost engine": the "XLT EcoBoost." All models feature a left-hand drive and are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Additionally, the body color variations have been updated, with "Dark Side" and "Sunset" replacing "Ginger Ale" and "Green Gem." A total of eight colors are available, comprising four standard colors and four optional colors.

Ford Explorer XLT

Ford Explorer LIMITED EcoBoost

Limited 200 Units: Special Edition "Limited EcoBoost"

The special edition "Explorer Limited EcoBoost," initially introduced as a limited run of 100 units in February 2013, is being reintroduced as a limited model.

This model is based on the front-wheel-drive "XLT EcoBoost" and features exclusive equipment from the top-grade "Limited," including a dual sunroof, colored grille, colored door mirrors, leather seats, a 12-speaker premium audio system with a total output of 390W, 10-way power seats for the driver and front passenger, seat coolers, and power-folding third-row seats. A total of 200 units will be produced, priced at 4.9 million yen.

Ford Japan is currently running a pre-order campaign for the LIMITED EcoBoost. Those who reserve by the end of September will receive a "Ford Genuine Drive Recorder" and an "Original USB Memory" shaped like the Explorer as special gifts.