2008 Ford Explorer 4WD Review

While Ford is in the process of paying off a huge $82.6 million lawsuit for its part in the rollover of an Explorer that paralyzed a woman, it continues to march ahead with its latest edition, the 2008 Ford Explorer 4WD. However, the newest Explorer is being marketed with "exclusive roll stability control." Obviously, Ford has created this marketing campaign to attempt to counteract the awful publicity from the lawsuit. Leaving behind the idea that one may become a quadriplegic; the Explorer 4WD boasts power, performance, and a new trim level.

The 2008 Explorer can be fitted with either a 4.0L V6 SOHC or even a 4.6L SOHC 24V V8, in which the V6 gets 210 horsepower, while the V8 gets a whopping 292 horsepower. However, the Explorer is not equipped to run on E85 gasoline, a feature that many of its competitors are putting in the forefront. With an estimated 14 city MPG and 20 highway MPG, the Explorer falls short of the competition. Nevertheless, the choice of either the 5 or 6-speed automatic makes up in transmission selection what it lacks in fuel economy.

The exterior has undergone minimal change. However, a new trim, the Explorer Ironman, comes with a rugged body kit and innovative "nostril" grille that gives the Ironman a tougher facade. The interior comes equipped with SYNC voice technology that provides handsfree access to a cellular phone and MP3 capable stereo system. An introductory subscription to SIRIUS satellite radio is also standard. News-obsessed buyers will be happy to know that they can access a number of all-day news stations on SIRIUS. An in-dash navigation system is also available for an extra fee. Another available option is the 7" DVD system that allows rear passengers to watch their favorite movies during long rides.

The 4WD option is not standard on any of the trim levels. Although, the 2008 Explorer does come with an optional 4WD ControlTrac. This is yet another attempt of Ford to redeem themselves from the effects of the lawsuit. Also, Ford has developed a system called AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control that presumably keeps the SUV firmly grounded on the road. An interesting addition is the tinted windshield that protects both driver and passenger from the sun's solar rays. However, if this is Ford's attempt at being green, they've definitely fallen short.

Ford has stayed true to the Explorer model, its competitors are making futuristic leaps and bounds. Assuming that Ford has been caught up in their rollover scandal, they've made an impressive effort to redirect the public's attention to the Explorer's finer qualities. However, will it be enough to get the buying public back in the rollover king? Only time will tell.