2009 Ford Explorer Review

2009 Ford Explorer
2009 Ford Explorer


For many years, the Ford Explorer has been one of the best-selling SUVs in the market. A capable tow vehicle and off-roader, the Explorer also offers the generous interior space, comfort features and safety technologies necessary for day-to-day tasks.

The Explorer is available in rear-wheel, four-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, each with a choice of three trim levels: XLT, Eddie Bauer or Limited. All trims can be equipped with either a 210-hp 4.0-liter V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, or a 292-hp 4.6-liter V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission. Limited trims are outfitted with a power-folding third row seat for 2009 (previously manual fold-flat); on XLT and Eddie Bauer trims, three-row seating is optional, increasing capacity to seven passengers. Standard safety features on every Explorer include AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, anti-lock disc brakes and a tire pressure monitoring system, as well as dual front, front side-impact and side-curtain airbags.

For 2009, the Ford Explorer carries over with minor adjustments to standard equipment and restructured option groups, including a new XLT Sport Package. Satellite radio is now standard on Eddie Bauer and Limited trims, while a new Trailer Sway Control feature is incorporated into the stability control system on all trims. Additionally, all-wheel drive Explorer models now get the XLT trim level.