Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines Review: Born to Explore
Updated Dec 11, 2020
Editor's rating
3.5
User's rating
4.0
Find out latest price, specs, release date, interior, exterior and pros & cons in our in-depth review for the Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines.
1. Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines: Introduction
2. Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines: Exterior
3. Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines: Interior
4. Ford Explorer 2018 Review: Performance
5. Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines: Safety & Security
6. Ford Explorer 2018 Specs in the Philippines
7. Ford Explorer 2018: Price & Release Date
8. Ford Explorer 2018 Review: Pros & Cons
1. Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines: Introduction
We have known the Ford Explorer since the ‘90s when it was still fighting against the Jeep Cherokee. Today, it has gone through five generations along with a lot of changes. Even, the SUV has transformed itself from a mid-size to a full-size crossover SUV. Referring the Ford Explorer, many of you may instantly think of a great combination which is hard to found in any models.
In that SUV, we find the considerable size of a real SUV, the ride of an executive saloon and also, the premium of a luxury vehicle.
The Explorer has transformed itself from a mid-size to a full-size crossover SUV
Most recently, in 2016, the Explorer received a facelift version available with plenty of new features. Not only that, the next update is expected to come soon.
In this Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines Review by Philkotse.com, all aspects of the current-generation Explorer will be analyzed and at the same time, up-to-date information about the next-generation model will be likewise exposed.
Of note, our review is heading to the Ford Explorer 2018 Sport – the range-topping variant in the lineup.
Ford Philippines unveils the all-new 3.5L Explorer Sport With EcoBoost
2. Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines: Exterior
The exterior of the PH-spec Ford Explorerhas been purposefully tuned up to give the SUV a fresh new look. At first glance, the Explorer Sport can differentiate itself from other SUVs thanks to its blacked-out components like smoked LED headlights, a dynamic radiator grille, side mirrors, door handles and tailgate garnish.
On the whole, these traits are consistent with Ford’s new design language and have successfully contributed to a sturdy image of the Explorer. In some amount, it reminds us of a luxury Land Rover, from the imposing front grille to its boxy shape.
The new Explorer is coddled with a fresh new look
The Explorer Sport can differentiate itself from other SUVs thanks to its blacked-out components
Smoked LED headlights border a new dynamic radiator grille
At the back, a couple of new LED taillights attract our attention in addition to larger tailpipe extensions, giving the Explore a more robust and energetic look.
At the back, a couple of new LED taillights attract our attention in addition to larger tailpipe extensions
The side profile, on the other hand, also is dyed black in B-pillars and roof bars. Completing this amazing exterior design is a sleek set of 5-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels where the prowess is demonstrate.
Completing this amazing exterior design is a sleek set of 5-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels
3. Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines: Interior
Now, step inside and explorer what the US car maker brings to you. The Ford Explorer 2018 interior, afresh, is reminiscent of the premium British crossover by exuding luxury in design.
The interior is reminiscent of a Land Rover crossover by exuding luxury in design
The modifications undergone in this model are not significant when compared to the pre-facelift version, in the main. It can be shortly depicted in two words: “more black” and “more aluminum”. Despite that, the cockpit is still very gorgeous owing to the perfect combination of design, detail, material and accessibility.
Ah, on the center console, do you spot new physical buttons? In truth, they perform a lot better than the old sensitive ones. In particular, a dual panel moon roof will definitely make you fall in love with the SUV.
A dual panel moon roof will definitely make you fall in love with the SUV
Entertainment source is from an 8-inch compatible with SYNC Voice-activated communication and entertainment system powered by Sony system, and Bluetooth connectivity as well. Audio system is supported by a total of 12 speakers.
Besides, a 230V socket, USB charging ports, a slew of bottle and cup holders are all at your fingertips as convenience features.
Entertainment source is from an 8-inch compatible with SYNC Voice-activated communication and entertainment system
A 230V socket, USB charging ports, a slew of bottle and cup holders are all at your fingertips
One of good thoughts about the 2018 Ford Explorer's cabin is that there is lots of space to sit. As a fun fact, the Americans are bigger and taller than us, so it turns out to be good for Filipinos. If other SUVs in today market only sit enough 7 passengers on paper, the Explorer can let 7 people park comfortably in reality.
Even when sitting on the third row, the vehicle has got enough head- and legroom for you. On top of that, deploying, folding and stowing the seats are no painless at all just by pushing a button. In passing, the tailgate can be also closed with a button.
There is lots of space to sit in the Explorer
With seats down, a cave with volume of 2313 liters will be built. How amazing!
The Explorer has a cargo space of 2313 liters
4. Ford Explorer 2018 Review: Performance
The Ford Explorer 2018 Sport is motivated by a 3.5-liter V6 twin-turbo EcoBoost® engine which generates 365 hp at 5,500 rpm and 475 Nm of peak torque at 3,000 rpm. Power is channeled to the four wheels through a seven-speed automatic transmission. In the meantime, the paddle shifters allow you to change gears in and out with your eyes closed or shut.
Apart from manually selecting gears, driver can also opt for normal or sport drive modes. Other than that, depending on specific driving condition, you can choose among snow, sand, gravel and grass settings from a Terrain Management System.
Plus, the powertrain also enables the SUV to accelerate impeccably. That said, this SUV has the thirst of a bulky car, so it quaffs 4.8 km/L in normal city driving and approximately 10 km/L on the highway.
The potent engine is able to easily shoot the Explorer with good pace
For the most part, this potent engine is able to easily shoot the Explorer with good pace. All parts operate very smoothly and precisely. Due to the sport-tuned suspension system as well as the help of massive 20-inch wheels, nothing can block the way of Explorer.
The fitting suspension permits this hefty vehicle to confidently wriggle around bends and corners. Of course, tight roads are exactly challenged without adjustments.
This SUV has the thirst of a bulky car
If you are a real adventure seeker and thirst for the most challenging journey, it’s high time to gear up and join the game with the Explorer. Our SUV has power and dynamic features that promise to help you play hard and overcome toughest terrains.
To be frank with you, the new Ford Explorer 2018 is truly born to bring you breathtaking driving experiences.
It promises to help you play hard and overcome toughest terrains
5. Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines: Safety & Security
Honestly, we’re wondering whether we can list all safety and security features of the Ford Explorer Sport. It’s a very very long list:
Driver's Airbag
Front Passenger's Airbag
Side Airbag
Curtain Airbag
Knee Airbag
Electronic Brake Distribution
ABS (with Panic Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution)
Security Alarm
Immobilizer
Stability Control
Speed Sensing Door Locks
Electronic Door Locks
Lane Departure Warning System
Blind-Spot Detection System
ISOFIX
6. Ford Explorer 2018 Specs in the Philippines
Ford Explorer 2018 Specs in the Philippines
Overall
Name
Ford Explorer 3.5 Sport V6 EcoBoost 4x4
Year Introduced
2012 (Refreshed: 2016)
Body Type
5-door SUV
Price
₱2,978,000
Engine / Drive
F/AWD
Engine & Performance
Engine Size
3.5 L
Displacement
3,496 cc
Number of Cylinders
6
Number of Valves
24
Transmission Type
6-speed SelectShift Automatic
Powertrain
All-Wheel Drive
Max Output
365 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Max Torque
475 Nm @ 3,500 rpm
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
70 L
Fuel Consumption
7.3 L/100 km
Dimensions
Length
5,006 mm
Width
2,004 mm
Height
1,765 mm
Wheelbase
2,860 mm
Curb Weight
2,218 kg
Turning Circle
11.9 m
Number of Doors
5
Number of Seats
7
Suspension and Tires
Front Suspension
Independent, MacPherson Strut, Sport Tuned
Rear Suspension
Independent, Multi-link, Sport Tuned
Front Brakes
Vented Disc
Rear Brakes
Disc
Tires
Hankook Ventus S1 Noble2 255/50 R 20 H (f & r)
Wheels
Alloy
Exterior
Headlights
LED
Fog Lamps
Yes, Front
Auto Lights
Yes
Interior
Steering Wheel Adjust
Tilt/Telescopic, Electric
Steering Wheel Material
Leather
Seating Surface
Leather
Seating Adjustment
Electric (front, driver w/ memory)
Folding Rear Seat
60/40 (2nd row)
50/50 (3rd row, electric)
On-Board Computer
Yes
Convenience Features & Technology
Power Windows
Power Door Locks
Power Mirrors
Yes, with Fold
Power Steering
Climate Control
Front: Dual Zone
Rear: Manual
Entertainment system
Stereo
DVD
MP3
USB
SD Card
Bluetooth
12 Speakers
Steering Controls
Yes
Tire Pressure Monitoring
Yes
Power Liftgate
Yes
Terrain Management System
Yes
Safety Features
Driver's Airbag
Yes
Front Passenger's Airbag
Yes
Curtain Airbag
Yes
Knee Airbag
Yes
Side Airbag
Yes
Electronic Brake Distribution
Yes
ABS
Yes, with EBD
Panic Brake Assist
Yes
Security Alarm
Yes
Stability Control
Yes
Speed Sensing Door Locks
Yes
Immobilizer
Yes
Blind-Spot Detection System
Yes
Lane Departure Warning System
Yes
ISOFIX
Yes
7. Ford Explorer 2018: Price & Release Date
7.1. Ford Explorer 2018 Price in the Philippines
The Ford Explorer 2018 Sport is priced at ₱2,978,000. If compared to other SUVs in the same segment, that price is acceptable. For all that, it has too many things for us to “explore”. If you do not want to go over budget, take the 2.3-liter Limited EcoBoost 4x2 AT into account which is also ideal for out of town trips and hair-raising adventures.
The Ford Explorer Sport is priced at ₱2,978,000 in the Philippines
7.2. 2018 Ford Explorer Release Date
Yes, it’s certain that you have heard of the new Ford Explorer 2018 which is said to feature new design, a comprehensive suite of new techs and new powertrain features also. The next-generation Explorer should have come sometime this fall as rumors suggest; nevertheless, it appears we have to wait till next year to see the refreshed car.
Thus, remember to keep an eye on our Philkotse.com and we’ll make sure to let you know when we welcome the new Explorer to the open road.
At the last moment, are you able to note down some points that make the Ford Explorer stand out in its class? If you can, our Ford Explorer 2018 review can be said to be successful to some extent.
Will you put the Ford Explorer 2018 on your wishlist?