The latest auto car news written in the Automotive News & Auto Blog | Car Industry News & Blogs ~ Wide Open Throttle reports...
The re-imagined 2011 Ford Explorer is now a Taurus-based crossover like the Flex, but the stylistic differences between the two cars could not be more pronounced.
The same is true if you compare the 2011 Explorer to the outgoing model, which wears more traditional SUV styling to go with the vehicle's higher towing and off-roading abilities. The 2011 Explorer has proven to be one of the most anticipated vehicle launches we've seen around the Motor Trend offices in a while and we want to know what you think: Does the new Explorer's design improve upon the 2010 model's bodywork?
In the front, the Explorer has a giant three-bar grille that's reminiscent of the one on the Taurus. The 2010 Explorer is far more conservative, with rectangular headlights and foglights.
Side surfacing keeps things interesting on the side view of the 2011 Explorer, but it's really the C-pillar that's most different between the two Ford SUVs. On the 2011 crossover, the body-colored pillar leans forward while the 2010 Explorer's C-pillar is more upright.
In back, that sense of motion established by the C-pillar continues, with the rear windshield angled forward, in contrast to the outgoing model. The new Explorer's taillights stretch much further onto the side of the car than the ones on the old car.
Dual exhaust and a chrome bar stretching from one taillight to the other finish off the exterior changes on the new Explorer.
While some might prefer the sheetmetal of the outgoing Explorer over the new one, the 2011 model slaughters the 2010 model on the interior. We'll let the photos do the talking.
Overall, though, has Ford improved the styling of the vehicle wearing the Explorer nameplate or are the automaker's designers simply trying too hard? Tell us in the comments section below.
Last time, the 2011 BMW X3 was our featured Refreshing or Revolting vehicle. Reception to the restyled crossover was mostly negative.
"It was ugly then and it's still ugly now," said vinnieboiblue.
Northof49th was more specific: "Revolting. Particularly the front. Looks like a child threw the pieces together."
Delspencerdeltorro was more positive: "They're getting warmer, but it's still revolting."
Photo order from top to bottom: 2011 Ford Explorer front view, 2010 Ford Explorer front view, 2011 Ford Explorer rear view, 2010 Ford Explorer rear view, 2011 Ford Explorer interior, 2010 Ford Explorer interior.
What do you think of this news about Refreshing or Revolting: 2011 Ford Explorer have your say below...
