Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a sport-utility vehicle sold in North America and built by the Ford Motor Company since 1990, as a replacement for the smaller but related Ford Bronco II.
The Ford Explorer was instrumental in turning the SUV from a special-interest vehicle into one of the most popular vehicle types on the road. Model years through 2010 were traditional mid-sized SUVs, with the redesign for the 2011 model year classifying it as a full-sized crossover SUV. It is slotted between the larger Ford Expedition and the smaller Ford Escape. Although outwardly similar, the Explorer and Ford Edge do not share platforms.
The Explorer has also been involved in controversy, after a spate of fatal rollover accidents involving Explorers fitted with Firestone tyres. Both two-door Explorer Sport and four-door models of Explorer have been sold.
Part-time four-wheel drive is an available option. A specially modified Special Service Vehicle version is also available from Ford Fleet for law enforcement agencies, fire departments, and EMS agencies. The 2011 Ford Explorer was named North American Truck of the Year.
