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Next-generation Ford Explorer to be based on car platform

 
2 3,327 views Jan 2, 2007

Next-generation Ford Explorer to be based on car platform

Next-generation Ford Explorer to be based on car platform

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Ford is toning down the macho styling and size of the next-generation Explorer SUV. For years, the Explorer has been the poster-child for the SUV generation, but that’s coming to an end as consumers shift to crossovers. A report from Bloomberg claims that the new Explorer will be built on the Volvo XC90 platform instead of the truck-based platforms traditionally used for the Explorer. The new platform will also be shared with the Ford Five Hundred, Escape, and Freestyle.

It’s time Ford did something drastic with one of its flagship SUVs, which has had sales drop by 25% for most of 2006. The new Explorer will be closer to a SUV and drive like a car, the report claims. The move is proof that Ford is thinking outside the box when it comes to its SUV range. Considering Ford will still retain the Expedition – useful for customers that haul heavy loads – the Explorer doesn’t need to be another me-too product.



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Comments (2)

  1. By Sandra Gonzalez Posted: 1/4/2007 8:53pm PST

    I think they should leave the Explorer the way it is, they have a crossover SUV already. They should be trying to break into the offroad market, which Jeep already dominates, the members of the online forum I belong to modifies their Explorers for extreme offroad use, moderate offroad use, street use or leave them stock. Check out www.explorer4x4.com and see what a few modifications can to to a stock Ford Explorer
     
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  2. By Dannie Valles Posted: 2/27/2010 10:13am PST

    The change is a necessary one. The Explorer was a dinosaur, it definitly need an upgrade. Ford can't build cars and trucks to provide interest to a few hobbiest like sandra who like to modify their trucks and go off roading. When most of Americans consider running over a bush as they back out of their driveways of their mini-mansions off roading.
     
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