New for 2015
Changes for 2015 are limited to a new optional appearance package on XLT models and three new color choices: Bronze Fire Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Caribou Metallic, and Magnetic Metallic.
A Family Favorite
The Ford Explorer helped take the SUV mainstream, and over two decades after it first hit showrooms, Ford’s midsize utility vehicle is still one of the best in its class. The latest Explorer features refined styling, powerful yet efficient EcoBoost engine options, and a spacious interior packed with the latest tech.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2015 Ford Explorer is available with three capable powertrains that will be up to any exploring you might have in mind.
Standard equipment on most models is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 290 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. It’s available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and all Explorer models come with a six-speed automatic transmission.
No matter how many wheels are driven, the robust V6 is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. It also gets EPA-rated fuel economy of 20 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway)* with front-wheel drive, and 19 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 23 mpg highway)* with all-wheel drive.
For better fuel economy, the 2015 Explorer is also available with a 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine. An engine that small might not seem up to the task of moving such a large vehicle, but the EcoBoost produces a healthy 240 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque.
Available only with front-wheel drive, the four-cylinder engine is rated to two 2,000 pounds and gets an EPA-rated 23 mpg combined (20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway).*
Ford also offers a 3.5-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V6, the same one used in the sporty Taurus SHO sedan and F-150 pickup truck. Available only with all-wheel drive, the turbo V6 produces 365 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a tow rating of 5,000 pounds and EPA-rated fuel economy of 18 mpg combined (16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway).*
Features and Trims
The 2015 Ford Explorer is a five-door midsize SUV with seating for up to seven. It’s available in four trim levels with prices starting at $30,700.**
Even the base Explorer comes fairly well equipped, with standard features including a six-way power driver’s seat, 60/40 split-folding second row and 50/50 split-folding third-row bench seats, chrome exhaust tips, LED taillights, a rear spoiler, and 18-inch aluminum wheels.
Building on the base model, the Explorer XLT includes all of the previously-listed standard features, and adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, SiriusXM satellite radio, fog lamps, chrome exterior trim, and Ford’s Sync connectivity system.
The penultimate Explorer model is the Limited. In addition to the applicable standard features from the base and XLT models, it features dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, remote engine start, ambient lighting, power adjustable pedals with memory, 12-speaker Sony audio system, and leather upholstery.
In addition to the standard features from the preceding model,s the top Explorer Sport, which gets its own upgraded exterior styling, as well as sport-style perforated leather seats, and sport-tuned suspension.
Exterior/Interior
The Ford Explorer was one of the original mainstream SUVs, but the 2015 model gives this familiar name a major update. The Explorer is now a car-based crossover rather than a traditional, truck-based ‘ute, and the exterior styling reflects that.
There are more rounded surfaces, mrs sculpting, and a faster windshield line that are more in step with modern SUV styling trends. They probably help make the Explorer a little more aerodynamic than previous models, which had the silhouettes of houses.
Throughout its long career, the Explorer has also been a family vehicle, and the 2015 model is well suited to that task as well. With the standard front bucket seats and second-row and third-row benches, the Explorer can seat seven people.
A 60/40 second-row and 50/50 third-row split adds flexibility, and there’s even a power-fold option for the third row. There’s 151.7 cubic feet of passenger volume, and up to 80.7 cubic feet of cargo space with both the second and third rows of seats folded.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2015 Ford Explorer includes anti-lock brakes, AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, traction control, Trailer Sway Control, Hill Start Assist, and a full array of airbags.
Optional features include a rear sensing system, rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, inflatable outboard rear seat belts, park assist, and an Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning System with Brake Support.
Bottom Line
The 2015 Ford Explorer continues to offer the capability and utility that’s made the Explorer name famous.
Be sure to contact us online or visit 3Birds Template to schedule a test drive.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices listed are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs, or other dealer charges.
Image: Ford
