Ford Explorer

New engines, more extensive use of lightweight metals, and a patented shift-on-the-fly terrain management system highlight the next-generation model as the former frame-based SUV re-emerges for 2011 as a unibody crossover SUV.

Derrick Kuzak, Group Vice President of Global Product Development for Ford, said the reinvented Explorer still “can go where the pavement doesn't” but with better fuel economy.

Replacing the 2010 Explorer's 4.0-L V6 and 4.6-L V8, which produced 210 hp (157 kW) at 5100 rpm and 254 lb·ft (344 N·m) at 3700 rpm and 292 hp (218 kW) at 5700 rpm and 315 lb·ft (427 N·m) at 4000 rpm, respectively, are a 3.5-L V6 and a 2.0-L EcoBoost inline four.