Fuel economy ratings for the EcoBoost are an estimated 20 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. Optional on front-drive models is the new 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine that makes 240 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, but is recommended to use premium fuel. With the 6-speed automatic this engine delivers class-leading 17/25 mpg city/highway EPA numbers in front-drive Explorers and 17/23 mpg in the 4WD versions it also accelerates from zero to 60 mph in roughly eight seconds and gives the Explorer a 5,000-pound maximum towing capacity. The 2013 Explorer’s standard engine is Ford’s high-tech 3.5-liter Ti-VCT (twin-independent variable camshaft timing) V6 that makes 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque.
Then again, few truck-based SUVs can match the 2013 Explorer’s outstanding fuel economy, exceptional cabin comfort, user-focused functionality and class-leading connectivity. Still, we wouldn’t put this vehicle up against a Toyota 4Runner, for example, whose body-on-frame architecture and hi/lo transfer case make it more conducive to serious off-road challenges. Our short time testing the Terrain Management 4-wheel-drive system netted some pretty impressive results, especially considering the Explorer’s modest 7.6 inches of ground clearance and somewhat soft suspension. The Explorer’s adept suspension is aided by a host of electronic assists designed to make this mid-size SUV handle like a lithe sport sedan. The rigid unit body has none of the squeaks and rattles so commonplace in most truck-based SUVs, while Ford’s Curve Control throttle intervention helps maintain a safe speed when rounding sharp corners. It takes only a few minutes of seat time in the 2013 Ford Explorer to realize this is no ordinary SUV.
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