2011 Ford Explorer - Exterior - Automobile Magazine

During the reveal, executives and engineers used the word "capability" almost as often as they did "Explorer," yet the smaller engines and a fuel-economy focus come with undeniable compromises. Maximum towing capacity drops from 7115 pounds to 5000 pounds while the four-cylinder tops out at 2000 pounds of towing. The low-range transfer case follows the V-8 out the door, but there is a new terrain management system -- essentially adaptive throttle, torque bias, and stability and traction control -- with settings for snow, mud, sand, and pavement, along with hill-descent control. Compared to the outgoing truck, the Explorer is 5.4 inches wider and 3.7 inches longer, but is 0.9 inches lower, while maintaining about 8 inches of ground clearance. Despite the size increase, weight has been reduced (by an unspecified amount) with the switch to unibody construction. A brand-new look
In addition to departing from the traditional SUV formula, Ford has also left behind the classic boxy style of the Explorer. Contrary to Ford's claims, we don't see a drop of influence from previous Explorers in the new truck's styling. With the rest of the pillars blacked out to blend in with the glass, the thick, slanted, body-color C-pillar creates a cantilevered look for the roof. Darkened rocker panels that wrap around the wheel wells visually lift the Explorer while reducing the height of the body sides. The grille draws inspiration from the Taurus and will come in either a brushed-aluminum look or body color. The shapes and details are all attractive, but taken as a whole, the Explorer's design seems rather unharmonious. Base models ride on 17-inch steel wheels with covers while the XLT trim uses aluminum 18-inch wheels and Limited models come with 20-inch wheels. A roof rack is standard on all Explorers.