World's best-selling SUV raises the standard in the Middle East

The all-new 2006 model of Ford's classic mid-size SUV is attracting plenty of attention at this year's Middle East International Motor Show, with even more power, improved fuel economy and seven new, class-exclusive safety features. Also, for the first time in an Explorer, the gearshift is floor mounted. The nameplate is now available in three trim levels: XLS, XLT, and now Eddie Bauer.

Jim Benintende, managing director, Ford Middle East, said: "A key strength for Explorer in the mid-size category has been its value for money, and the 2006 edition builds on this with an array of great standard features like V6 power and independent rear suspension.

"That's why it has been the world's best-selling SUV for the last 15 years, and one of the most consistent performers for Ford in the Middle East in recent years."

Power and fuel efficiency are combined in the 2006 model. The Ford Explorer features a 4.0-litre V6 engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission that produces 210hp and 254ft-lbs of torque. With a 74 percent improvement in smog-forming emissions, the V6 emits about the same amount of pollutants as the vaunted Ford Escape Hybrid.

The optional three-valve, 4.6-liter, single-overhead-cam V8 shares the same cam timing and cylinder heads as the Ford Mustang GT and the 5.4-liter Ford F-150 engine, and has the first six-speed automatic transmission in the segment. The new motor is expected to give the Explorer up to 10 per cent better fuel economy and an additional 53 horsepower, taking its total output to 292 hp and 300 pound-feet of torque.

Benintende added:

"Innovation is key to the redesign of this model and is evident in every aspect, including power, driving dynamics and safety. The new Explorer has 10 advanced safety features as standard, and that's the most for its class. Seven of the 10 features are also new to the segment."

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) for 2005, the Ford Explorer already has one of the best impact protection ratings for mid-size SUVs. The 2006 model is expected to improve on the performance of its predecessor in next year's NCAP examinations.

Ensuring more peace of mind than ever for GCC drivers and passengers alike, the 2006 Explorer's standard safety technology includes side impact airbags in the seats; AdvanceTrac™ traction control with Roll Stability Control; a new, energy-absorbing steering column; and a new tyre pressure monitoring system to reduce the risk of dangerous blowouts.

The 2006 Ford Explorer offers optional Safety Canopy™ side air curtains that deploy in side-impact collisions and rollovers to protect front and second-row occupants. The 'roll-fold' technology deploys the curtain between the occupant's head and the window as it inflates.

"Glamorous nameplates like the Ford Mustang and GT have got plenty of headlines in recent months, but the established qualities of the Ford Explorer are equally responsible for driving the success we are experiencing for Ford in this region right now. The Explorer has been a mainstay for the Blue Oval in the Middle East, and the redesigned edition of the vehicle is great news for Explorer fans."