MSRPs for the 2009 Ford Explorer 4WD range from $26,995 to $37,705 - slightly less than average for its class. It has been designed and manufactured to compete with the Chevy Trailblazer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota 4Runner. It rates in fuel economy at 14/20 mpg city/highway and seats 5 comfortable in the base model. An impressive 5-star frontal crash teat rating has been granted by the NHTSA. The basic warranty leaves you carefree for the first 36,000 miles or 36 months.

The Ford Explorer is classified as a mid-sized SUV and has undergone few changes since its total redesign in 2006.The current generation has a tighter, sportier suspension system; more responsive steering; a new braking system and is both smoother and quieter than previous generations. When taking corners, even at considerable speeds, there is little lean. All tires grip the surface well and are also assisted by electronic stability and traction control systems. Flat-folding rear seats allow owners to haul mad gear for all of their outings and travels.

The 2009 Ford Explorer 4WD is a big, heavy vehicle. As such, it grants drivers and passengers a firm, stable ride that feels solid and instills confidence. Optional seating configurations turn the standard 5-passenger ride into one that accommodates either 6 or 7 passengers. The Ford Explorer outshines most of its class in terms of towing ability; it can pull along up to 7,310 ponds of boat, RV or lumber-laden trailers. That compares well to the considerably pricier Jeep Grand Cherokee with a Hemi. Payload ratings sit equally impressive at 1531 pounds.

Voice-controlled navigation, 20-inch wheels, power adjustable pedals and the Ford Sync entertainment and communication system are all standard features on the Limited trim. There is also a capless fueling system offered that is becoming a seemingly-insignificant, yet surprisingly-cool feature. Independent rear suspension puts rear passengers in the smooth zone - even when towing heavy loads. Trims are labeled XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited. The standard power train for all is a combination of a 4.0L V6 with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Of course, an optional V8 is available as well. The 4WD system is low-geared, full-time and can be dry pavement.

Optional features, especially for the Eddie Bauer and Limited trims, are quite impressive. Let's just say that you can custom design the Explorer 4WD that you have in mind without problems. Appearance-wise, the 2009 Explorer looks like a scaled-down version of the F-150. However, it adds in lots of chrome and almost-oversized lamps. Combining these features with the squared mirrors gives the Explorer a Lexus-like look that even the younger, hipper crowds are falling heavy for.

Overall, the 2009 Ford Explorer 4WD is a perfect midsized SUV for families that do a lot of towing. That what it is designed for and that is who it serves best. Solid value and dependable performance are defining this Ford-tough SUV - and sales are looking very well.