Driving Impressions:
If there's one shining aspect of the 2006 Ford Explorer, it's the driving experience. That 292-horsepower V8, while not the most powerful in the class, does a fine job of propelling this seven-passenger SUV through sluggish city streets and into high-speed highway passing lanes. The steering isn't terribly communicative, but it offers acceptable feedback and offers a tremendously tight turning circle. Four-wheel disc brakes provide sufficient stopping power, though drivers will certainly feel the Explorer's heft during sudden halts; stopping on a dime is ideal, but this ‘ute requires a silver dollar.

For those unfamiliar with Southern California roads, understand that there are plenty of recessed sewer covers, lots of rippled freeways, out-of-nowhere dips, and sloppy patch-it jobs. Perfect for testing a vehicle's suspension and ride quality, both of which score well on the 2006 Explorer. Cruising along at speed on those rough streets, Ford's most popular SUV absorbs bumps and irregularities with little effect on the driver and passengers, all while the suspension remains composed. Despite the plethora of cheap plastics inside, the cabin stays quiet, with a notable absence of squeaks, rattles, though a fair amount of wind noise makes its way inside. Engine noise is well muted.

– Thom Blackett

Driving Impressions:
The Explorer's ride actually surprised me, being very comfortable over the rough streets and freeways of Southern California. The power is smooth and linear, and pulls hard when requested to do so. I like the steering as well, it is not overboosted like some others, and the turning radius on the Ford Explorer blew me away! No doubt this would come in handy in tight off-road situations. The brakes aren't stellar but gave me sufficient feedback to feel comfortable.

The worst aspect of the driving experience comes from dealing with poor design issues. All of the second and third headrests must be in the down position to get a good view of the traffic around you (providing of course you have no passengers; if you do you're out of luck), and the oddly shaped side mirrors don't offer the view I would like to see. Despite cheap interior materials, the Explorer was quiet with no squeaks or rattles but I seriously doubt it will remain that way over time. Road and tire noise was negligible.

– Ron Perry