The Ford Explorer’s new-for-2016 list includes a turbocharged EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine, and the Premium trim-level. Composed ride and handling and on-demand engine power were dependable performance attributes during a week-long test drive of the Explorer Platinum 4WD. The driver’s exterior visuals had a big assist from the Explorer Platinum’s standard blind spot vehicle detection system. Explorer Platinum includes a fold-flat front passenger seat, and its lengthy safety equipment list includes available inflatable safety belts. That industry-first safety feature is for outboard riders in the second row.

Engine choices for Explorer are a 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder (replacing a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost), a 3.5-liter V6, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 (Sport and Platinum model trims). Engines mate to a 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Cargo volume exceeds 81 cubic feet behind the front row. There is more than 43 cubic feet behind the second row, and 21 cubic feet behind the third row. The 112.6-inch wheelbase 4WD Explorer Platinum powered by the 365 horsepower/350 pounds-feet of torque EcoBoost V6 collects estimated miles per gallon of 16 city/22 highway and carries a base MSRP of $52,970.