2018 Ford Explorer Gets Modest Updates

Ford has revealed its 2018 Ford Explorer, which offers a handful of mild updates for the new model year. Cosmetically, it’s virtually unchanged, with only minor tweaks, but there are a few notable features.

The SUV has a new Safe and Smart Package option package that will bring some cool safety and tech stuff. The package includes adaptive cruise control, which is able to detect moving vehicles ahead and change cruise speed if needed. There’s also collision warning feature with braking support to help prevent accidents involving the car in front of you. A blind spot information system triggers warnings if a car is in your blind spot, and rear cross-traffic alert helps you tell if cars are coming when backing out of a parking spot. Lane keeping assist helps keep you in the lane as you drive and can provide steering torque to get the vehicle back in the lane when needed. Other features include rain sensing wipers and auto high-beam lighting.

While the engine options are unchanged, with a 280hp 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V6, a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6, those who opt for that EcoBoost V6 will also get quad exhaust tips for the first time.

The 2018 Explorer will also get four new colors: Burgundy Velvet Tinted Clearcoat, Cinnamon Glaze, Platinum Dune Tricoat and Blue Metallic, as well as five new wheel options. The SUV will arrive in dealerships this fall.