The 2002 Explorer/Mountaineer

Ford engineers further improve ride, handling, and safety while increasing the vehicles' power.

The new Explorer and Mountaineer have been given a new suspension system, enhanced safety systems, and a new optional V8 or improved standard V6 engines. The vehicles' improved ride and increased power are just as evident as its new third-row seating configuration.

Ford engineers gave the Explorer/Mountaineer an independent rear suspension (IRS) system in place of its former solid-axle design. The IRS provides a better ride and improved handling because each wheel reacts independently to bumps in the road, moving both up and rearward to absorb bumps and reduce impact harshness. The IRS system is extremely stiff laterally, while offering more longitudinal compliance. According to the company, traditional solid-axle designs typically offer high longitudinal stiffness because the axles are bolted to leaf springs and, thus, offer imprecise lateral control.