Explorer buyers wishing for everything can now avoid the hassle of checking every box on the options sheet.
Pros:
Handsome exterior
Stunning interior
Solid chassis
Cons:
Spending 53 large for an Explorer
Not a go-anywhere off-roader
MyFord Touch still needs work
2016 Ford Explorer
The current fifth-generation Ford Explorer went on sale in 2010 as a 2011 model. It remained largely unchanged until the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, when a refreshed model was shown. That vehicle went on sale in 2015 as a 2016 model and also introduced the world to a new top trim, the Explorer Platinum, offering buyers pretty much everything on the options list, and then some, as standard equipment.
Exterior
Up front, the 2016 Explorer features a redesigned front fascia as well as an all-new hood. The grille and lower bumper have been re-designed, with new fog lamp surrounds that mimic the headlamp housings of the new F-150.
The headlamp enclosures were re-shaped, while LED low-beam headlights are now standard across the lineup.
The changes in back are more subtle, with a new lower bumper fascia and re-designed taillamp bezels that cover new LED lamps.
The use of chrome remains sparing – on the lower body sills, door handles, exhaust finishers and a thin strip that runs across the tailgate between the upper portions of the taillights.
Interior
Inside, the Platinum trim model is closer to a Lincoln than a Ford. The instrument panel and doors feature aluminum and ash trim, while wood trim and a heat function is added to the familiar leather-wrapped steering wheel.
And while it might be easier to list what's not standard, here is a bit of what does come on this model: fast-charging Smart USB ports, both parallel and perpendicular park assist functions, adaptive cruise control, a 500-watt Sony sound system, front and rear cameras with washers, hands-free liftgate, adaptive cruise control, blind spot information system, cross-traffic alert, inflatable seat belts, multi-contour front seats wrapped in Nirvana leather with micro-perforation, quilted seats and trim and a panoramic sunroof.
Like past Explorers, we found very little to quibble about. Our only nit-pick involved the large 8-inch touch-screen in the center console. The amount of information it’s required to convey to the driver can, at times, be a bit overwhelming and finding just the right area on it to place your finger can be distracting.
Under the hood
Before 2016, you either had to choose the Sport to get the big engine or the Limited to be swathed in luxury. This year, the Platinum offers the best of both worlds as it comes with Fords 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 that churns out 365 horsepower and 350 lb.-ft. of torque.
On the road
The Explorer remains well-plated on the highway, and its suspension soaks up potholes and railroad tracks with aplomb. Cabin noise is nearly library-quiet at all speeds and turns and evasive maneuvers are executed with a minimum of fuss.
Keep in mind that at 4700 pounds, even with 365 horses under the hood it’s hardly something you’ll feel like tossing around, but then again drivers so inclined would probably not put an Explorer on their shopping lists, anyway.
The Bottom Line
The refreshed 2016 Explorer Platinum looks even better on the outside. Truth be told, when we first spied one on the road we mistook it for a Range Rover. The interior of the Platinum trim is also equally stunning. In fact, the fun-to-drive quotient notwithstanding, the latest Ford Explorer Platinum raises the bar of the full-sized crossover utility class to a new level.
Despite its $53,915 price tag, it looks to us like Ford has yet another winner on its hands.
