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Well, forget about the My Ford Touch system. I declared I’m not much of a fan of it when I test drove the Ford Edge a few months back. Unfortunately, it is the same system that’s used in the Explorer; once you have used it for awhile you get used to it, and I do like the in-dash informational displays but I do not like the missing hard buttons for items I would like to quickly turn off and on, like the heated seats.
On to the remainder of the interior — what can I say besides excellent? I suppose I could say a lot more. I have come to the conclusion I’m too small for these large vehicles, though, resting my arm on the right side armrest makes it impossible for me to reach the left and vice versa. Yes, I know both hands should be on the wheel, but on long highway drives I like to rest a bit and these larger SUVs and trucks are so large I find it difficult to get comfortable.
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So, I guess I am saying there is lots of room up front; the second row also offers a considerable amount of space while leaving even the third row accessible to human beings with actual legs! Yes, adults can fit in the third row of the Explorer without too much trouble. And this leaves a rather large cargo area to boot, when the third row is stowed when not in use for a flat load floor from the back to the front seats. As far as utility and passenger volume, there is no question that the Explorer has it in spades.
The Explorer also has gizmos and toys in spades as well, with items such as blind spot detection, collision avoidance and radar guided cruise control. Most buyers probably will not spring for the extra features, but I can vouch for them as being great luxury items to make long hauls a relaxing experience.
An unexpected highway trip today by my significant other resulted in some feedback that is worth sharing. She thought the Explorer was easy to drive, although hard to park, as it is huge. Highway cruising was nice and she specifically mentioned that it was comfortable. She averaged 10.5L/100km on her trip, carrying a very heavy, and very full, tool chest full on her return trip — not bad!
