I’ve owned: 1991 Explorer Sport, 1994 Explorer xlt, 1997 Explorer Limited, 2002 Sport Trac and now I own a 2005 Explorer XLS. I work utility construction and maintenance. The electricity and gas has to be on 24/7/365 and my Explorers get me to work. Average about 170,000 miles per vehicle. Ford needs to trim weight and utilize direct injection, turbo engines of a smaller displacement. DI turbo diesels would be nice too. If someone needs to haul a boat or an 8,000 pound trailer they can buy an F150 or 250 or 350 or 450 and if they have four friends and a lot of beer and pork rinds, buy an F350 Crew Cab with a V-10. But if Ford wants to rule the suv market it needs to downsize the Explorer or figure out how to keep the size but trim the weight. My 1997 Limited got 20 mpg hwy at 60 mph. The 2005 xls is lucky to get 17. That’s just plain dumb Ford. I have driven the Japanese crossovers and American crossovers and they do not feel and behave like my Explorers in 20 inches of snow over a 42 mile one way commute in the dark. This concept Explorer looks great but please lose the locomotive style front end! That look is hideous! Just graft the Flex front end on it and make the Flex about 700 pounds lighter so I can justify buying one for my wife. Or just graft the Edge front end on aa CX7…..

make it look more like the landrover and then you may have a home run!!!

Hi, this is a great concept car. I hope it will be built this way

i think its ugly and i would not buy one. I have always been a proud ford owner and always will be. I have had several different Ford models and have always had good luck out of them. All of them were unique in their own way. I think people have went enviromental friendly crazy. Dont get me wrong, I do want a clean enviroment, but I do think there is a different way of doing things. Also all of these so called electric hybrid cars, there is no power. If I want a new vehicle, I am going to still buy a F series, SUV, or a Mustang. I want horsepower!!!!

On the Explorer, don’t change model, cut price, make a V-6 engine to get 25 mpg, and V-8, get 20 mpg. Eddie Bauer model, beautiful car, cut price by 5,000 dollars, also make a Hubrid Explorer, Cadallac did it, so can you. I have a 2006. Love my car.

hybrids are b.s. Just the government and tree hugers going crazy. Clean air/ enviorment all a good cause. Stop out side bar b q’s, they cause more smog than cars. Shipping fleets cause major smog, where are the do gooders now. Cadillacs’ hybrid gets less than 20 miles per gal. mid teens..that is just non sense. You wnat to get on your soapbox, it’s the oil companies that blew the hell out of the world enconomy. You think the millions of suvs, trucks and preformance that were built were because noone wanted them. Everyone wanted them and still do, but corporate greed (oil co’s) blew that. So it’s much easier to blame the car manufactures, not the cause of the problem.

I purchased a new 1998 Explorer. It still runs good
and looks good. Get the concept Explorer SUV on the
market asap so I can buy one.

I think as a concept this is definitely a step in the right direction. Excellent design and some great features - are those pull out steps on the back bumper? My main concern would be model overlap. The Edge, Taurus X, Flex… all seem somewhat similar… what’s the main purpose of this vehicle beyond those - towing, off-road, etc.? It needs to stand out and stay affordable. Admittedly we don’t know Ford’s grand plan, but I for one have faith. I’m more interested in the 2010 Taurus for my next vehicle, if the 2010 Fusion doesn’t end up in my driveway first. But I do agree with other posters - the Bronco concept got a lot of attention and seemed like a good idea!

I agree with the other guy, what happened to the Ford bronco? Someone needs to come up with a vehicle that can compete with the Jeep Wrangler!!! have you ever tried to buy one used? Its cheaper to buy a new one! A bronco with a Strong v-6 and a V-4 would do well if it had a soft top. Have a heavy duty package so someone can tow or put a plow on it. Lets thing big engineers at ford. Your shareholders are waiting for the come back!!

I don’t like it. Too modern! I am on my second explorer and would like a third if they would…. Increase the horsepoer on the V-6. The truck is way to slow the A/C can’t keep up in the summer. 2. install a dam clock in the center of the console likethe infiniti has. Maybe a flip down compartmetn for one tr one to store there sun glasses so there not sliding all over the place. and a bigger change hold for quarters. forgoet about the dimes and niuclkes noone uses them anymore. I wonder if any fo the ford engineers ever rode in the back of an explorer for an hour or two? What a head ache! Can you guys fix that issue? how about rubber floor mats with deep threads instead of carpeting on the drivers side??

I’m intersted in ford explorer and i have seen one 1996, what’s your opinion.please comment-give me details, pluses and minuses

What happened to the Bronco concept? I have an ‘06 Jeep Liberty now. Will I be able to keep it and trade it for a new Bronco in the near futre?

when I will have the opportunity to buy the ford explorer america model. what month of 2008

okay why would you want to put a 4 cylinder in a suv
that is used to pull boats and mobile homes i think you
should keep the 244 cubic inch 4.0l V6 and just modify
it for better mpg some what like you did with the F150 5.4l i love fords and i love my 1991 ford exporer and plan on buy ford if you do right

I own an 04 Eddie Bauer Explorer. I love this beast. with the v8. perfect vehicle. This….I would not hesitate to buy it. if it came with the turbo 6 cyclinder oh yeah. This would be my next vehicle

I LOVE FORD BUT SMALL MOTORS IS BAD

one future, one comfort car…

Seems like an interesting car. The seats really don’t look that comfortable. And that picnic stuff in the back in my opinion is a no go. And the lights could use a redo.

Also are they still making the new Bronco’s?

when can I buy this model, explorer america?

I’m very interested in buy one Explorer, but just need to know when it is going to be avaible for Mexico, just to know how long time do I have to wait.

Really appreciate your answer.

Regards

Explorer America Concept:

ME WANT ONE!!! I don’t care what it takes or who you have to sacrifice, I’ll be right here eagerly awaiting its arrival in my local Ford showroom!!!!

I like what I read about the Explorer America concept car. Especially a 4 cyclinder engine with a turbo…long overdue!!! Bring it out NOW! I will buy…

I’ve been waiting for the SUV with the minivan doors. No need to kill the Explorer look, but change the doors to sliding — moms will buy this — it’s the real reason that we drive minivans!

I’ve owned 4 Explorers over the past 14 years. I still drive one

I think it’s cutting edge and it’s about time for a big makeover on the Explorer. I’m 50 years old and have always felt that FORD has played it safe when they have a model year change. When I see pictures of FORD’s European cars I always wonder why you haven’t built that model over here. In this concept I like the shape and window heights. The vehicle looks like a cross between a Toyota FJ and a Explorer.

you are totally right

ok–maybe on second thought—I like this design—I still would want to bump into anything with that front end……..that would be about a $4K fix bare minimum—I just checked out the new Honda Pilot…..dear lord…….that is the ugliest thing they have ever done—this new Explorer design is lightyears ahead–if you get a chance go view the new Pilot—they really messed that thing up!

very nice i love it

Its! About! Time! Finally a new fresh idea that I like. Ford first of all need to stay ahead of the game, because Toyota and GM products are kicking your you know what? I like the MK T , the Explorer and that small car you guys are coming up with all concepts! Make them! You won’t be dissappointed.

It’s remarkable how many comments come from folks who: 1. Have never seen a CONCEPT vehicle (i.e. Hello! The don’t actually build these things as you see them.) and 2. Can’t use basic English. One could hope that it’s just a lack of reading what you wrote, but we know better, don’t we?

Regarding this concept vehicle: This is simply to try out some new ideas and guage public opinion. It does forego the three bar grille — Thanks!

The reason why some people are upset about this car is that it strays so far from what the car was and why the loyal customers kept coming back to it. Most people, who are stirred up by it, are upset about the grill and the headlights and the fact FoMoCo is dabbling in the idea of making it into a crossover. It’s not for you to tell them that they can’t be upset about how drastically it is proposed to be changed. They have all the right in the world to be upset. If they care that much about the model’s future, let them. Have you ever owned an Explorer or even driven one? I know people that have two or three of them, because they love the engineering and design of the car.
This is a message/discussion board, and more importantly, the internet. People don’t use correct grammar all of the time, and why would you say such a thing? It just goes to show that you believe yourself to be better than everyone else, so if you are, why are you on an automobile discussion board? Are you the overall Grand Puba of the internet, who goes around and criticizes other’s comments? If so, we are graced by thine presence.
Thanks!

I PERSONALLY THINK THAT IT IS A FABILOUS NEW CONCEPT AND IT WILL DEFINATLY SELL IN SOUTH AFRICA WHERE STYLISH CARS IS EVERYTHING

ford needs to make this vechile it’s hot looking

I LIKE THIS SUV SAW IT AT THE AUTO SHOW IN NEW YORK I THINK YOU SHOULD CONSIDER MAKING IT MORE THAN A CONCEPT I WOULD BUY ONE

I dont know–I’m kind of up in the air on this design….I want to like it…..but is has some weird elements involved in the front end. I suppose it will be toned back a bit for production—JUST NO 3 BAR FRIGGING GRILL………….PLEEEEZZZEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!. god almighty they wear me out on that design—is everyone asleep or stoned over there in the design center?? Anyway, I just worry that its obsolete already with fuel prices headed to 4 bux and beyond a gallon. I think a massive re-do on the Escape would be money better spent. The Explorer still sells fairly well but unless they come up with one that gets a minimum 30 mpg then they shouldnt waste time with a stop gap measure because eventually they will have make something to adapt to the changing times. The S-max is a valid alternate in my book. Make that unit with 4WD and a jack it up a notch!

Very nice vehicle, saught it in NYC, very stylish, maybe need some work on rear side, but over all very nice, futuristic, modern SUV. Thank you guys for working this way.

I like the concept, but I’d be curious about the seat comfort…they seem very thin. I like the innovation and would love to see this car in production

Mama said “don’t buy no ugly truck”! Where have the days gone of “REAL” trucks and what about comfort? This is hideous!

IF YOU MAKE THIS CAR, YOU WILL MAKE SO MUCH MONEY. THIS IS THE COOLEST CAR I HAVE SEEN IN MY ENTIRE LIFE

For a little background I have been a loyal Ford owner since my first car almost 40 years ago including Mach 1, Mustang GT, Torino GT, Taurus wagon, Crown Vic, Ranger 4×4, F250 SD 4×4, several Expeditions and Mercury’s plus many others - by the way nearly all have been purchased new from the dealer.

I almost laugh out loud every time I see your Synch ads on TV. How sorry it is to see Ford stoop so low to be advertising such a trivial electronic gadget when all your customers (those that are still left) are looking for a better fuel mileage performing vehicle. Ford needs to put the same emphasis on raising the vehicle fuel efficiency as they have on improving vehicle safety. GM has leaped ahead of Ford in newer “real” technology on their vehicles that actually improve fuel economy.

Ford really seemed to be showing some leadership wth the 2005 introduction of the Escape Hybrid but notthing else even comes close for the next 3 model years.

I hate to pile on but does Ford really believe that the Flex will sell? Must be one of the ugliest designed body styles I have seen in years.

Sorry for ranting on but I have only purchased Fords for years due to my patriotism and desire to support one of the last few American companies out there but my next vehicle will probably be a Camry Hybrid - can you blame me?

It is not too late yet. Let’s pull this together!

For the first time in my life I have to buy something besides a Ford, a stupid Dodge, because Ford has abandoned us offroaders. If you are going to build this gives us some offroading capabilities.

This new design isn’t all that bad, but, then again, i feel it could ruin the loyal customer base of the Explorer. Try something a little different and create a balance that will keep customers from shying away from the Explorer, but also introduces them to a fresher, more updated style.

Awesome! Please make this vehicle. It is time to update the Explorer. The sooner the better as far as I am concerned.

I’m all for the great increase in fuel economy, but do we really need to kill the Explorer with this design. If produced I think it would be one of the ugliest cars on the road. Please stick with improving the current model’s fuel consumption, before creating this “thing” of an suv.

What abourtadding some head lights on the front? I had a 97 ford explorer and the head lights were sub standard. I brought a 04 ford explorer and the lights are excellent. Now we have gone back to candle watt power????

Ford build it and they will come.

I’ve been selling fords for the past 4 years and being able to see all of what’s came and gone this concept is by far the best looking. Now one thing you guys have to keep in mind is every concept is toned down before its actually put into production. I don’t see them going with those seats and the grill will not stay. Most of the concepts are simply used as a starting point for the new car. So you will see some of the features of the concept in the new explorer but thats all. I just hope they keep safty as one of the main focal points. They’re much easier to sell that way.

WHAT an ABSOLUTE disgrace to the revered Explorer name. I am the very proud owner of a fully optioned 04 Explorer Limited and was GREATLY disturbed by what I saw at the N.A.I.A.S in January. Like come on, HOW MANY crossovers does Ford need in it’s roster….

The Explorer and Expedition need to remain just what they are, TRUE lux s.uv’s…..

Kai, do you want to buy something that works, or something that will cost an arm and a leg to repair? land rovers are known for being massively expensive to repair, whether it is a head light, electrical or brakes. land rovers are crap. they dont work over here in north america, just like explorers dont work in europe

Explorer and Expedition are “LUX” suv’s? As in luxury??? What planet are you on?????? You want a luxury suv, then you buy a Land Rover!

I like this vehicle and would buy one if it actually hits the market. Most of these concepts are just that, a concept and they never see the showroom floor. Hopefully that isn’t the case. This vehicle is amazing

Seats look cool, but do not look comfortable for a road trip!

I have driven an Explorer my entire time of driving. I learned to drive on my father’s and I have a deep respect for the automobile. After driving every model change of explorer since 1991, the current Explorer is by far the best one yet, I now drive a 2006 model. I think that the designing is dead on for what defines the Explorer. I can honestly say I was heartbroken when I saw this concept. I am all for innovations, and granted i do not like throwing out fifty dollars to fill my tank, but do you really have to be so drastic.. so quickly? Could you not have the innovations while keeping more of the designing cues from Explorers from the past? I drive an Explorer for a reason, it is different than anything else on the road, but now this concept looks like a deranged Nissan Murano. Please for the Love of God, don’t make this the final say. Please don’t single handedly kill an American Icon.

I am driving Ford explorer since 1998, actually I own a 2005 XLT blue Ford Explorer, very beautiful and looks powerfly. The America Concept is an extraordinary design that i expect to drive as soon as possible. Its fuel effiency promises too much for the future of planet.

Ford is the Best on designing the bodies of all cars.

Could you send me more photos ?

Talk is cheap, JUST MAKE THE EXPLORER AMERICA! Look what Toyota did with the Scion…

I Love Ford Products and stand up for FORD and all it is and does for the American Public!!!! I am currently driving a 2006 Explorer. I absolutely LOVE FORD EXPLORERS. This is my 4th one!!!! Ford shoud get more credit than it does. It was one of the first American Auto Makers to go green. They were also one of the first ones to make their ROUGE Plant Facitlity Eco Friendly. Go FORD!!!! My Dad retired from Cleveland Castings Plant. I drive my Explorer and Mustang with PRIDE!!!!

I am a financial advisor, stock holder, and ford driver. I really like the direction that I see ford heading with the newer vehicle line up. I really like the exterior styling of the concept explorer. I feel that the interior will be toned down a little for production but love the forward thinking.

I am anxious to see on a different note if the coming years brings changes to the new mustang such as a stiffer line surrounding the side vent styling much like the concept vehicle had.

Keep moving in the right direction.

I like it, my goal with my next vehicles is get something that can safely transport my family of four with all the necessary luggage when need be. Something that will lesson this country’s dependence on foreign oil (especially that lunatic Chavez) so 22mpg minimum (24mpg or 25mpg would be a very easy sell). My wife wants something with sliding doors, I’ve mentioned this to her and she likes it. I want a four wheel drive, if it’s as capable as the current explorer I’m sure it’ll work. I like the 2/4 high/4 low switch, I would like a locking differential. I don’t like the high hood line; I want to be able to see as much of what is close to me as possible (I have 2 little ones!) excessive chrome doesn’t impress me. I do like the keypad entry system.
I think you should consider reducing dealer counts - there are so many they can only make money by gouging people on service.

Though the concept is not a complete flop, I would like to see a more traditional type of grille. its just not workin for me. the rear end is a little rough as well. What i think America would love is another Bronco. look at cardomain.com… broncos and bronco IIs are huge! people miss them. i have a Bronco II. When I am out of college and look to buy a new car, I would without a doubt by a Bronco. It wouldnt have any negative impacts financially. But with that in mind, if the Bronco were to come back, people would want a more realistic type of car… not like the previous concept from a few years ago. Thank you.

-Dakota

I think I like the grill.

The explorer consept is awesome, I want one..

The Ford Explorer America is a good concept vehicle as a crossover. Build it, people will buy it. However, to replace the explorer in the suv line up, bring back the bronco with a four door version. The suv line up would be rediculous if you could only buy an Escape, small suv, or the Expedition, full size suv. Ford needs a mid size suv to compete with the GM and foriegn automakers.

Ford, change the front end a little bit so it doesn’t look like a fat dogs face. LOVE the interior and the rear sliding doors are a great idea. The way the seats are connected to the center “rail” is a great idea. Would be so easy to keep floor clean and find kids dropped toys.

i would love to have a ford explorer sport,
with an inline 4 cylinder, souped up like a
toyota or honda 4 cylinder. i enjoy the four
full size doors in my ford explorer sport trac,
and when i drive it, folks say, man that is one
cool pick up. i love it! i say yeah, my wife,
bought it for me, she says i am way to cool
to drive a regular old pickup, i need something
cool looking so she bought me a ford explorer
sport trac. i should also mention i like the
baja subaru trucks too, besides mine. rhleigh.