Ford Explorer 2018 Philippines Review: Born to Explore

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.

The exterior of the PH-spec Ford Explorer has 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

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

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

>>> Click to find more reviews for other capable SUVs in the Philippines

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

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.

>>> See more Ford Explorer for sale at cheaper prices

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.

>>> Latest update: 2021 Ford Explorer: Expectations and what we know so far

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?