Automotive Reviews
Posts tagged 4×4
2006 Ford Explorer
Nov 23rd
How does a vehicle remain the best-seller for fifteen years, especially in a category that’s as hotly contested as the mid-size SUV market? Easy–by being the most versatile vehicle out there. Considering that there are about two hundred SUVs currently on the market, that’s saying something.
The Ford Explorer has always done a great job of filling the roles of several vehicles at once. It’s a family hauler, a rugged towing vehicle and a capable off-roader, all at the same time. For 2006, what looks like a light revision is actually a thorough reworking. This SUV’s body may look more or less the same behind those revised headlights, but the frame and interior are all-new. Don’t worry, Explorer fans, the truck’s versatility hasn’t changed, but some of its more annoying habits are no more. More >
2005 Ford Expedition King Ranch
Nov 23rd
Ford’s multi-talented Expedition SUV is competent, powerful, and updated for 2005 with a host of evolutionary improvements. This full-size SUV is more efficient, more powerful and safer, if not particularly exciting to the eyes. That’s probably part of the reason that Ford has expanded the F-150′s King Ranch trim package to the Expedition for 2005. New engines and electronic throttle control probably don’t excite Joe Consumer, but saddle-style Castano leather and big, Texas-style badges are sure to grab his eye.
Roomy and quiet, the Expedition is able to please trailer-towers and soccer moms alike. The design is conservative, with a boxy face and molded body-sides, and there are so many Expeditions running around that one barely notices them at the curb any more. The square, upright design is favored by customizers because it’s one of the few vehicles that doesn’t look completely cartoonish rolling on 22″ or 24″ wheels. The Expedition is available in six trim levels. More >
2005 Dodge Durango Adventurer
Nov 13th
The name badge said “Adventurer,” so we took the new Durango adventuring. We drove to the northern Michigan wilderness on a rescue mission, and we prowled urban Detroit, and Dodge’s “tween-”sized SUV showed equal ability at both tasks.
Redesigned in 2004, the rough, tough, do-it-all Durango adds the Adventurer model for this year. Aimed at active customers who take their SUVs camping and traveling, the Durango Adventurer (the name once graced Dodge pickup trucks) features additional cargo carrying gear and off-road protection. Add heated cloth seats and a HEMI V8 engine to the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for a nice adventure indeed. More >