Wrap-Up Thanks to its redesigned seats, quieter cabin, and revised suspension, the already impressive Explorer makes for a much better daily driver, offering palpable improvements in comfort, ride, and handling.

Thanks to its redesigned seats, quieter cabin, and revised suspension, the already impressive Explorer makes for a much better daily driver, offering palpable improvements in comfort, ride, and handling. It’s not quite as cushy as a crossover vehicle, but then, what crossover vehicle offers a low-range 4WD system and a towing capacity of 7,300 pounds? Add in new safety technology and an environmentally responsible low-emission V6 powertrain, and the 2006 Ford Explorer makes a terrific case for itself when the need to tow, haul, and carry are high priorities.

Quibbles with interior materials, certain design elements, space utilization, and the new V8 engine, however, pale in comparison to the Explorer’s value equation. Granted, our Explorer Limited 4WD test vehicle was loaded with equipment at $45,275, but it’s clear that Ford’s sticker prices, though reduced from 2005 levels, continue to reflect a built-in plan for incentives and rebates. We’d like to see the Explorer’s price set closer to actual transaction values, but since American consumers have been conditioned to expect a big, fat, juicy rebate on every Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors product that rolls out of a factory, it shouldn’t be surprising that the tag in the Explorer’s window is high to help offset such “marketing” costs.

Regardless, the 2006 Ford Explorer is a solid, capable, safe SUV, perfect for a family of four with the added benefit of a third-row seat and seven-passenger capacity when needed, keeping it fit enough to continue finding that market sweet spot and go the distance against intense competition.