The fourth generation of the Ford Explorer was introduced in 2011, and brought a number of significant changes that made it quite different from the original 1990 Explorer. The 2014 Explorer is now has car-like unibody construction rather than a traditional body-on-frame design. As more people’s taste towards drift to non-truck-based crossover utilities, this was a big change. The elimination of a V8 option and the appearance of a standard Eco boost 4-cylinder engine was also a major departure from the past.
What's New for 2014
Significant advancements introduced on the Ford 2013 Explorer Sport, are now are available on the 2014 Ford Explorer. These performance-oriented upgrades include a solid-mounted electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) rack with improved feel, providing more responsiveness to drivers both on- and off-road, and larger brakes for shorter stopping distances and better performance when towing.
The latest-generation SYNC system with MyFord Touch featuring Wi-Fi capability is available. Auto headlamps are now standard, and new options include second-row heated seats and adaptive cruise control.
Choosing Your Ford Explorer
The Explorer is a front- or all-wheel drive vehicle powered by a choice of two engines. The naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 puts our 290 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque, and delivers 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. Also available is a 2-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder with 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque delivering 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway in front-wheel drive vehicles.
If you want the powerful 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, the Sport model is the only way to get it.
Four different Explorer models are offered
Optional features include navigation, MyKey programmable parental controls on driving speed, a blind spot system, hill start assist for more confidence on uphill grades, a power liftgate with height control, plus Curve Control, which can slow the vehicle by up to 10 mph if it senses a curve is being taken too fast.
The Explorer offers some segment-exclusive features including inflatable second row seatbelts and a terrain management system for bad weather or off-roading.