In 2002, Ford sold more than 430,000 Explorers. This macho trucky SUV, often featuring V8 power, was a big hit with American families, becoming the de facto station wagon of a generation. Sales declined every year thereafter, then fell off the cliff after the fuel-price spike of 2008. As Americans turned to smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles to fill their family needs, Explorer sales dropped to 52,000 in 2009. Ford saw the writing on the wall and decided to rethink this long-time favorite. For 2011, Ford has completely redesigned the Explorer, keeping its off-road ability and much of its towing capacity, but redefining the driving experience. Are those changes for the better? Let’s find out.
