Sunday, November 06, 2005

New 2006 Explorer Limited


CIMG0351
Originally uploaded by reboot95.


I did it, I really did it I have bought a new car. It is a 2006 Ford Explorer Limited. A really good looking and performing vehicle in my opinion.



The Good

  • The V8 really does have more power than you think.

  • The Gas mileage is as good as my V6 98 Eddie Bauer Explorer

  • It has a great ride for an SUV

  • Still set up high

  • Nice Styling

  • DVD based GPS navigation with first in class Street names announced for turns

  • Roomy

  • Heated Steats


  • A whole set of electronic stability, traction control features




Some misses


  • Door handle in a strange place, but it is there because of new side impact beams

  • A bit pricey

  • Still not great gas mileage

  • I've heard it does not have any skid plates

  • Speed electronically limited to around 100 mph

  • My 98 has a few features that this one does not.

  • They moved the place you put gas in to the right side, I keep pulling up on wrong side.





So what is the final verdict this is a good successor to my existing Explorer. I feel like I've taken a step up and am over all happy. None of the other SUV's I looked at had the right mix to make me plop down my money. The V8 at first does not really feel like it is that much stronger than the V6 in my 98, but when you have the right combination of speed and gear selection it will throw you back in the seat with some authority and you think yeah this engine did come out of a Mustang. The engine is a 4.6 Liter 3 valve per cylinder variable timed V8. The 6 Speed automatic is a bit slow and misses some punch at certain speeds. But once you get it right you go yeah it does have nearly 300 HP! The DVD Based GPS navigation system is pretty cool it has a bright readable screen only direct sunlit with the moon roof open makes it hard to see. It has voice prompts and will give you street names for turns this is supposed to be another first in class. It is very comfortable and the ride is a lot better than the 98. I'm looking forward to the first snow to see how the electronic controls systems help out with less than optimal traction. I've had it out in a hard rain and there was really no issue with traction or handling. Over all it had enough features to convince me to spend the money



Click on the picture at the top of the post to see the flicker gallery.