Since its introduction, the Ford Explorer has delivered confidence and customer-oriented design. It leads the mid-size SUV segment in sales, and remains the first choice when looking for a vehicle that will serve family adventures well. For 2008, Explorer adds new technology and safety features while still meeting the needs of SUV customers with its generous interior and capable towing performance.

For the 2008 model year, Ford Explorer gives a nod to increasing customer demand for seamless connectivity, offering two new technologies – voice-activated navigation and the industry-exclusive Ford Sync hands-free communications and entertainment system. Additionally, the 2008 Explorer debuts Ford’s new capless fuel filling system. Ford Safety Canopy? also becomes standard on all 2008 Explorer models to provide increased confidence and security.

Ford Explorer is available in XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited trims. All Explorers are produced in Louisville, Ky.

Never Lose Your Gas Cap Again
The 2008 Ford Explorer will be the first to market with a capless fuel filling system. This technology not only eliminates the inconvenience of forgetting to put the gas cap back on after fueling, but also saves time during refueling by doing away with unscrewing and replacing a fuel filler cap.

The system could prove to benefit the environment as well. The capless fuel system provides a much better seal than a cap, as it isn’t opened until the fuel pump nozzle is inserted. When capless fueling is completed, the nozzle is removed and the system seals shut automatically.

Refined Design and Added Conveniences
Explorer features solid proportions and a planted stance and projects a large presence — most noticeably in the front end. The grilles, with two distinct styles wrapping the large, 7-inch Ford blue oval, make the strongest statement.

New for 2008, XLT models now include standard body color bumper and wheel lip moldings for a more classic, seamless appearance. The Eddie Bauer and Limited editions also see slight refinements in exterior design. Eddie Bauer models receive standard Pueblo Gold colored accent step bars and Limited adds a standard chrome accent step bar. Finally, the exterior palette is updated with three new finishes: Stone Green Clearcoat Metallic, Vapor Silver Clearcoat Metallic and White Suede Clearcoat.

For 2008, several convenience features find their way into the vehicle, including:

• Ford Sync, Ford’s industry-exclusive, voice-activated hands-free in-car communications and entertainment system. This available system fully integrates mobile phones and handheld media players into the vehicle using Bluetooth technology and USB connectivity.
• Available voice-activated navigation system. Explorer’s available navigation system can be voice activated for more convenient hands-free operation.
• New standard conveniences. One-touch up/down driver’s window (late availability) is another newly added standard features on all levels for 2008. Limited models also receive standard power adjustable pedals with memory and Homelink.

Smooth, Efficient Power
Explorer’s optional three-valve, 4.6-liter V-8 delivers 292 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. It is mated to the first 6-speed automatic in the segment, with a wide, 6.04:1 gear ratio, enabling the engine to spend more time in its optimum power band — either at peak power for acceleration or at peak efficiency for optimal fuel economy.

The V-8 delivers low emissions as well. It qualifies for the stringent Tier II, Bin 5 federal standard, which is compliant with California’s Low Emissions Vehicle II (LEV II) standard.

Explorer’s standard 4.0-liter V-6 engine is also very clean, meeting federal Tier II, Bin 4 emissions requirements to achieve Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle II (ULEV II) status. Explorer benefits from the smooth ride effects of an exceptionally stiff frame. Aiding in the comfort of the ride are an independent front suspension, independent rear suspension with trailing arms and a four-wheel disc brake system with standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake distribution and electronic brake assist. Explorer also boasts a 1,520-pound payload and up to a 7,290-pound tow rating.

The Safety Leader
To meet federal safety regulations and Ford’s even more stringent internal safety targets, the 2008 Ford Explorer offers advanced safety technology as standard equipment, including:

• Safety Canopy side curtain air bags
• Advanced Restraints Module and Dual Front-Crash Sensors
• Five-Level Front-Passenger Sensing System
• Adaptive Load-Limiting Safety Belt Retractors
• Front-Passenger Seat Adaptive Air Bag Tether
• Adaptive Air Bag Venting
• Adaptive Stroking Steering Column
• Front-Seat Side Air Bags
• AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control)
• Dual-Stage Front Air Bags
• Driver-Seat Position Sensor
• LATCH child restraint system in rear outboard seats

These standard safety features contributed to Explorer’s recognition as the only full-size SUV to receive the government’s highest frontal crash test rating for six consecutive years.

Milestones

1990	Explorer introduced as a 1991 model, redefining the mid-size sport utility vehicle segment

1993	Explorer Limited introduced; Explorer appears in movie “ Jurassic Park “

1995	Extensive redesign, including use of independent front suspension

1996	5.0-liter V-8 with all-wheel drive becomes available

1997	4.0-liter V-6 introduced

1999	Exterior update

2001	Explorer lineup expands with the introduction of the Explorer Sport Trac

2002	New platform featuring independent rear suspension with available 4.6-liter, V-8 and third-row seats

2005	AdvanceTrac ® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control) is made standard

2006	Major update with new frame, new independent rear suspension and new adaptive safety features
	Explorer named a finalist for 2006 North American Truck of the Year

2007	Consumer Guide names the 2007 Explorer a Recommended Buy among mid-size sport utility vehicles