(Enlarge photo)
The 2002 Explorer looks more like a shrunken Expedition than a refined version of the old model. We particularly like the restrained cladding, integrated bumpers, and bold egg-crate grille. This photo shows the available chrome-finished steel wheels. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
It might look simple, but on Explorer Eddie Bauer and Limited models, as well as the Mountaineer, all those buttons controlling the stereo and automatic climate control can be tiresome. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
Much cleaner in appearance than the previous Explorer's, the new truck's rear end boasts a standard Class II towing package, and can be equipped with a reverse sensing sonar system, shown here on this Eddie Bauer. Also visible in this shot are the available aluminum alloy wheels. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
With both the second- and third-row seats folded down, Explorer and Mountaineer can carry 81.3 cubic feet of cargo on a load floor that slants slightly upward as it approaches the front seatbacks. For more space (88 cubes) and a flatter load floor, buy a five-passenger Ford without the third-row seating. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
Thanks to a giant rear liftglass, it's easier than ever to load groceries without opening the entire tailgate. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
Last year these were known as puddle lamps. This year, it would be fair to call them floodlights. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
A "porthole-in-frame" independent rear suspension design allowed the rear load floor to be lowered and the rear differential to be raised. The result is a more composed ride, better handling, improved ground clearance, and space inside for two extra passengers without increasing the vehicle's length or height. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
Standard on every Explorer and Mountaineer is the Safety Canopy system, which inflates these head airbags to cover 75 percent of the side door glass. Later in the year, a rollover protection system will debut, able to sense an imminent rollover and keep these airbags inflated for up to six seconds, providing maximum protection. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
Mountaineer is, for the first time, stylistically distinct from the Ford Explorer. With a satin-aluminum finish on the grille, a two-tone paint treatment, unique wheels, oversized headlights and creased front sheetmetal, Mountaineer imparts class and style. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
Decked out in satin-aluminum accents, Mountaineer's high-tech interior look is preferable to what comes in the Explorer. However, on sunny days, reflections off the chrome-ringed Mercury logo on the steering wheel can temporarily blind drivers who fail to wear sunglasses. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
Taillight "protectors" come on every Mountaineer. While they do manage to give the Mercury a look distinct from the Ford, we'd have preferred amber turn signal lenses and the old truck's signature red reflector strip across the bottom of the tailgate to this cheesy look. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
Molded-in containers in the door panels come in handy for those who regularly tote a 20-ounce water bottle. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
(Enlarge photo)
Accessing the third-row seat is relatively painless, but the flat lower cushion and dearth of legroom won't please adults. (Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company)
|
|
