2008 Ford Explorer

NEW FOR 2008:

- New Ford Sync hands-free communications and entertainment system (late availability)

- New voice-activated navigation system (late availability)

- New 20-inch wheels (late availability)

- New capless fuel filling system (late availability)

- Standard one-touch up/down driver's window (late availability)

- Exterior colours: Stone Green Clearcoat Metallic, Vapor Silver Clearcoat Metallic and White Suede Clearcoat Metallic added

For 2008, the Explorer receives some of Ford's new systems, including its Sync hands-free communication and entertainment system, designed in conjunction with Microsoft. It also features the capless fuel system first seen on the Ford GT, which eliminates the need to remove and replace a fuel cap when filling the tank.

The Explorer is available with two engines, a 4.0-litre V6 with five-speed automatic, and 4.6-litre V8 with six-speed automatic. The V6 is standard and the V8 optional in the XLT and Eddie Bauer; the Limited model is V8-powered only. While U.S. buyers can purchase two-wheel drive versions, all Canadian models are four-wheel only.

Features on the XLT include 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, six-way power driver's seat, heated mirrors, trailer hitch receiver, side steps, roof rack, cruise control, power windows with driver's side one-touch down, power locks with keyless entry, tilt wheel, auto-dimming rearview mirror, 60/40 split folding rear bench seat, leather-wrapped wheel, floor mats, CD/MP3 stereo with SIRIUS satellite radio and wheel-mounted controls, automatic headlamps, fog lamps, speed-sensitive variable intermittent wipers, fixed-interval rear wiper, deep-tinted windows and low tire pressure warning system.

The Eddie Bauer Edition adds 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, lower accent two-tone paint, heated leather seats with eight-way driver and six-way passenger power adjustment, driver's position memory, power-adjustable pedals, garage door opener, simulated wood instrument panel insert, reverse sensing system, and six-CD/MP3 stereo with SIRIUS satellite radio.

The Limited adds seven-passenger seating, chrome mirrors, rear climate control with auxiliary rear heater, power sunroof, 60/40 folding second-row split-bench seat, and 50/50 third-row split-bench seat with power-fold operation.

A perennial company best-seller despite its size and price, the Explorer offers a comfortable interior, a smooth ride, good towing and off-road capability, plenty of cargo space, and the option of five- or seven-passenger seating. Should you prefer to keep your payload out in the open, the Explorer also forms the basis of the Sport Trac pickup-style SUV.