The once big and bold Ford Explorer is now a shadow of its former self, but the 2012 version of the Explorer Base nevertheless offers a practical and economical midsize crossover. Traditionally well-equipped, this hefty family-oriented ute sports unibody construction, a surprisingly posh, if not particularly spacious cabin that boasts simulated alloy accents, 3 rows of standard seating for up to 7 occupants and, with the rear seats folded, 80.7 cubic feet of useable cargo area. The entry-level edition also comes with 17-inch steel wheels, a roof rack and rear spoiler, cloth upholstery and front bucket seats. A power-adjustable driver’s seat, reclining second-row seating and floor mats in all 3 rows, as well as full power accessories and the useful MyFord trip computer, grace the Explorer Base, along with cruise control and telescoping tilt-wheel steering. Finally, this basic crossover is delivered with a 6-speaker audio system boasting an MP3-capable single-CD player.
Notable options for the Explorer Base trim include a Class III towing package, as well as Ford’s popular SYNC voice-activated audio and communications system, satellite radio and roof-rack crossbars.
A 3.5-liter variable-valve-timed (VVT) Flex Fuel (FFV) V6 engine powers the 2012 Explorer Base, under the tutelage of the standard 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission. Expect 290 hp and 255 lb-ft from this combo, with towing capacity maxed out at 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Mileage, meantime, is estimated at 17 mpg city/24 highway for this front-wheel-drive-only (FWD) crossover.
Ford has additionally made a 240-hp 2.4-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder (I4) EcoBoost powerplant available to the base Explorer for 2012. Matched with the uniquely geared 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission, the four-banger puts out 270 lb-ft of torque, can tow up to 2,000 pounds with the available Class III tow package and is estimated to get mileage of 20/28.
Traditionally a family-oriented ute, the Explorer Base offers standard 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, 3-row head airbags and front side-mounted airbags with head protection chambers. A post-collision safety system also comes standard.
11 GOOD DEALS
are available with average savings of $1,329 below market price
