Overview
Ford has made some changes to the Explorer for 2012 that are most definitely worth noting. Central to the changes is the fact that the 2012 Ford Explorer now uses a car like chassis as opposed to a truck like chassis. This new concept is thought to give the SUV a more comfortable and stable ride. On top of all that, the Explorer also has a stylish interior that can fit seven passengers with many electronic features. The three trim levels are still the Base, XLT and Limited. If you are serious about buying a 2012 Ford Explorer you should be able to get your hands on one for between $28,000 and $38,000.
Pricing
The Base Ford Explorer runs around $28,000. Considering all of the features you get in this trim level the price is excellent. The Base model comes standard with a 3.5L V6 engine that gets about 35 miles per gallon on the highway and 18 miles per gallon in the city. In addition, you will also get a full-on 4-wheel drive experience, an MP3 option, as well as traction control.
The XLT trim package will cost around $32,000 but will only have a few upgrades over the base model. Particularly, the satellite radio and navigation feature make it a more convenient and comfortable vehicle. If you are thinking of a Ford Explorer then you should be aware that the XLT is the most popular option. It gives the driver a blend of comfort and luxury as well as a high level of performance. The fact of the matter is that the XLT is the best-selling of all of the Explorer trim packages.
The Limited model is the most luxurious of the trim packages as it features everything that the XLT has to offer, only with an added DVD player, iPod feature, and a third row of seats. In short, the Limited is the luxury model when it comes to the Ford Explorer. As you could imagine, however, an SUV with this many high end features is going to be a bit costly. The price tag on the Limited is about $38,000.
Specs
Regardless of the trim level you choose, you can have peace of mind knowing that your Explorer is going to perform well. In fact, the 3.5L engine in the base model produces 390 horsepower and 255 pound feet of torque. Pretty powerful stuff! Furthermore, it can go 0-60 in 8.3 seconds. Even though the engine is quick and powerful you can be rest assured that the Ford Explorer is safe to drive.
Review
If you are interested I getting a top of the line SUV that performs well and gives the feel of luxury then you should look at the 2012 Ford Explorer Limited as an option. If you decide to make this purchase you will be glad that you did- you now have a car that you can depend on for years to come.
The bottom line is that the 2012 Ford Explorer is a wise option for a lot of people. It just makes sense if you have a family that you need to haul around or are always running errands back and forth. When compared to the Hyundai Veracruz and the Toyota Highlander, the Explorer more than holds its own ground.
Safety
All of the safety features that come standard will ensure that you are protected no matter what you are out and about doing. You get what you pay for, and the 2012 Ford Explorer is definitely worth every penny spent. All 2012 Ford Explorer models models come equipped with stability and traction control, as well as trailer a sway control. There are also front side airbags and side curtain airbags on all models.
