When Ford first began talking about its then-upcoming 2011 Explorer there was much talk of an EcoBoost four-cylinder offering that would deliver optimal fuel economy, but until now dealers have had to make due with a V6-powered model only.
Despite the lack of an EcoBoost engine, Ford has already more than doubled its 2010 Explorer sales pace with 65,823 examples sold by the halfway mark, but now Explorer gains a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with direct injection and turbocharging technology, increased Explorer’s fuel economy from 17 city, 25 highway (V6 models) to 20 city, 28 highway miles per gallon.
The more efficient EcoBoost option will be limited to the front-wheel drive models and also sees maximum towing drop to 2,000 pounds, a change Ford expects to be of little concern for those seeking the powerplant in the first place.
The cost for the jump in fuel economy? Just add $995 to the price of the Explorer you had in mind, say the folks at Ford. In return you get an engine that is good for 240 horsepower at 5,500 rpm, as well as 270 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 rpm.
How does EcoBoost stack up against the competition?
Ford is quick to point out that an EcoBoost-powered Explorer will best the Honda Pilot and Jeep Grand Cherokee by five miles per gallon (highway), the Chevrolet Traverse by four mpg and the Toyota Highlander by three mpg.
The Ford Explorer with EcoBoost comes mated exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission and requires 87 octane fuel – not 91 or 93 octane premium fuel.
Ford says the EcoBoost Explorer is “launching now,” so expect models to begin arriving at your local dealers in the near future (Leftlane is awaiting a reply from Ford with exact dates).
