Our 1995 Explorer had an easy-to-read instrument panel with fully illuminated controls and switches, along with new seat trims, upholstery styles and door panels (leather on the Limited). The steering wheel had lighted speed-control switches, enabling us to easily use cruise control in low-light conditions without putting ourselves in danger.
Also new this year are large-bezel radio controls with much larger rotating knobs and push-button selectors. They?re a great deal easier to use than the previous small-chassis radio controls.
The Explorer?s floor pan mounts a revised slide bar for the seat tracks. And there is an additional 12-volt power point for electronic accessories.
An optional console between the front bucket seats contains cupholders, a message center, a small storage compartment, a tissue dispenser, and ashtray, a set of rear radio controls, a designated space for the optional 6-CD changer, and space for an optional Ford Electronics flip-out, voice-actuated cellular phone.
One version of the optional center console even has a hot-and-cold air blower with upper and lower registers. All of the plastic interior trim panels have been redone and have a richer, more integrated look.
There are some new creature-comfort optionals added to the Explorer?s long list; a power rather than manual moonroof, automatic climate control, an illuminated entry system, a voice-activated cellular telephone, a three-position reclining rear seat, and an integrated child seat built into the right rear seat.
There?s also an optional 6-CD player installed in the center console in place of the previous in-dash, single-disc player.
With all-new instruments to look at and use, a lower hoodline, and a smoothed-out interior, our Explorer XLT was a delight to drive. The front suspension has eliminated a lot of the old Explorer?s annoying ride habits, especially the pitching and rocking we used to experience at freeway speeds. It?s quiet and relatively plush (for a truck) with a bit of body roll in sharp turns.
The 4.0-liter V6 is certainly no substitute for the Jeep Grand Cherokee?s optional V8 or GM?s 200-hp V6. Still, Ford?s engine copes with the heavyweight Explorer?s bulk without straining, though it is still a bit grindy and noisy. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, quietly and positively.
The rack-and-pinion steering is a good deal more precise than the old system, and it doesn?t require a lot of correction in freeway driving. Even though the Explorer is a large, heavy vehicle, it felt lively and was responsive even at low speeds.