More innovation equals great performance, more fun
For the 2016 model year, Explorer customers enjoy driver-assist innovations that have long made the vehicle an off-road favorite. The 2016 Explorer offers more drive-enhancing smart technology than previous models, including:
- Front and rear cameras with washers: Both have wide-angle lenses and come equipped with a washer – a class-exclusive, segment-first feature
- Enhanced active park assist with perpendicular park assist, park-out assist and semi-automatic parallel parking: The system uses ultrasonic sensors and electric power-assisted steering to help drivers with parallel parking and perpendicular parking maneuvers. Enhanced active park assist includes park-out assist to help a driver pull out of parallel parking spots. The system controls the steering wheel, while the driver operates the accelerator and brake pedals, and shifts the vehicle into gear
- Smart-charging USB ports: Located in the front and rear of the vehicle are USB ports able to charge smart devices up to two times faster than conventional ports
- Hands-free liftgate: A customer need only kick his or her foot below the center of the rear bumper to open or close the liftgate
- Industry-exclusive 500-watt Sony Audio System
- Active Grille Shutters: Upper and lower fascia openings close at highway speeds to reduce drag. At low speeds, the shutters open to deliver airflow to cool the powertrain
- Air curtains: Standard air curtains create a high-pressure region of air that impacts the outer surface of the wheels and tires. The result is airflow held close to the vehicle body, minimizing drag
Delivering EcoBoost performance
Explorer Platinum and Explorer Sport are equipped with a standard 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 that produces 365 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 350 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,500 rpm. All Explorer engines are mated with a six-speed SelectShift® Automatic transmission.
Base, XLT and Limited models are equipped with a standard 3.5-liter V6, and drivers can upgrade to the available 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that produces 280 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 310 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000 rpm.
The 2.3-liter EcoBoost has a notable improvement in horsepower and torque over the outgoing 2.0-liter. The front-wheel-drive Explorer retains its EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 28 mpg on the highway, which is best-in-class. For the first time, customers choosing a four-cylinder Explorer can also opt for four-wheel drive and trailer towing capability.
“The new Explorer isn’t giving up its reputation as a leader in highway fuel efficiency, which is especially key for customers who want a vehicle that is also a capable trail warrior,” said Groeneveld.
