2012 New Ford Explorer

[spynz]

Yeah spynz, we bought it around the same time so it was around 24K for the complete package.

Nagdi-distribute din ng WeatherTech floor mats ang Blade which I guess they got them from Hart Int'l (Mother's in Santolan) as well.

My friend got those generic floor mats in Ace Hardware, 1st & 2nd row only. Exact fit daw but he forgot the brand. Price was around 2K.

What i like with weathertech is that it moulds around the flooring. Fits perfectly.

[spynz]

TO 2011-2013 EXPLORER OWNERS:

I called FGP today to complain about the "SMELL DURING HARD ACCELERATION" although I have already advised my dealership about it.

I have also complained about how slow FGP is in terms of updating the My Ford Touch (MFT). I'm currently running the Sync VersionGen2 v.3.0.2. There are two updates out already: v3.2.2 and v3.5.1. The two updates are supposed to fix the bugs and improve the overall performance of the MFT. So far, madalas mag hang ang MFT ko when an IPOD is plugged. Ang tagal din mag INDEX ng MFT.

I will update you all once FGP calls me again. *crossing fingers*

Dragon - I think we can also DIY the MFT updates. You will just log in to fordsync. You can see the latest version in it and download in your pen drive.

[spynz]

Guys I've ordered a functional shark fin from U.S which will replace our antenna. It cost around $96 inc. shipping.

[dragonexplorer]

Dragon - I think we can also DIY the MFT updates. You will just log in to fordsync. You can see the latest version in it and download in your pen drive.

We sure can but I was told by FGP that my warranty will be voided. Go figure! I've been so tempted to do it myself *sigh* If anyone has done so, then please share experience naman. I've read it takes 40 mins while the car is on.

[macsd]

Guys I've ordered a functional shark fin from U.S which will replace our antenna. It cost around $96 inc. shipping.

Bro,

This is what i like. Please post a pick after mo magawa. I saw a video over the internet someone did his explo sa US. Ang ganda ng lumabas at pwede ko ng bilihan ng cover ang explo pag shark fin ang antenna. I just would like to know if the stations are all clear pa rin beyond metro manila.

[spynz]

Bro,

This is what i like. Please post a pick after mo magawa. I saw a video over the internet someone did his explo sa US. Ang ganda ng lumabas at pwede ko ng bilihan ng cover ang explo pag shark fin ang antenna. I just would like to know if the stations are all clear pa rin beyond metro manila.

I saw it as well sa explo forum. Maganda siya but i heard some complains regarding radio station reception. But i think it was mistakenly installed. The only farthest route i made is Pico de Loro Cove which even our stock antenna may suffer bad reception.

[numbah5]

Guys, here is niky's review of the Explorer Ecoboost, featured at the website of Top Gear Philippines (yoohoo niky! Are you now a contributing editor of Top Gear Philippines?)

Review: Ford Explorer 2.0L GTDi XLT AT with EcoBoost

It has been a year since Ford Group Philippines first released the new Explorer, yet the waiting list at dealerships is still months long. While it may not be as ubiquitous as the cheaper diesel-powered competition, it's still a sensation among premium SUV buyers. This is likely because the V6 Limited offers class-leading features at a class-leading price. The new GTDi EcoBoost, on the other hand, costs a lot less while promising similar performance and better economy. But what do you give up for going green?





STYLING

You don't need a translator to tell you that this Oppa is very Gangnam. Whether GTDi or V6, the Explorer definitely gets its swagger on. There is a bit of Land Rover here, a bit of Ford Edge there and a whole lot of truck in between. Maybe too much truck.

That massive front chin scrapes parking curbs everywhere. The 18-inch alloys are very sporty, but look somewhat lost in the huge wheel wells. And in case you forget what you're driving, Explorer badges are everywhere even on the headlights.





INTERIOR

By any reckoning, the Explorer is huge. The doors and ceiling feel miles away. The trunk is usefully large with the third row up, and enormous with the third row down. About the only part of the Explorer that's not XXXL are the front footwells, which are pinched by the massive front wheels.

While the XLT lacks the power-fold third row and dual sunroofs of the Limited variant, it still gets power front seats and lots of creamy leather. Everything else is covered in high-quality plastics and trim, except the squishy (waterproof) armrests.









ENGINE PERFORMANCE

Ford's new Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection technology gives the 2.0-liter "Ecoboost" a healthy 240hp and 366Nm of torque. Some throttle lag and over-run are observed in stop-and-go traffic. But this variant is much peppier and more responsive than the V6. It's only past 120kph that it feels less potent, pulling less urgently to the 180kph speed limiter, but most owners won't mind.

With the long-legged six-speed automatic, the 2.0 delivers outstanding highway economy at 10-14km/L. But the 3-5km/L we got in traffic is identical to the V6. There's no getting around the fact that the Explorer is a very heavy truck.





RIDE AND HANDLING

The GTDi's ride is more compliant than the V6's, thanks to the smaller wheels. This is a welcome comfort over country roads. With a ******* of torque going through the economy-biased Michelin Green-X front tires, the handling is not quite as settled as the V6's.

Not that this will matter to most buyers. It is still worlds better than the previous truck and comfortably above par for the class. About the only real-world nits are the side mirrors two sizes too small for a vehicle the size of a compact bus. Without the rear camera, parking would be a hopeless exercise.





EXTRA FEATURES

Along with that rear camera, the GTDi comes with traction control, hill descent control, voice command, the MyFord Touch infotainment console, and a dual-LCD instrument cluster with a bevy of display functions. Bluetooth, SD, USB, iPod and AV auxiliary options can also keep you busy. To be honest, I found myself looking at the "PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR SURROUNDINGS" warning more often than I'd like to admit.

While I found MyFord Touch frustrating at launch, the current software upgrade is more responsive than before despite the odd hiccup. Yes, you can update your Explorer just like a smartphone. Now, if only you could plug it in, too.



THE VERDICT

While it's not electric, the "Ecoboost" does a fair job of saving gas. But in heavy Philippine traffic, the real-world difference is negligible. It would thus seem foolish not to opt for the fully-loaded V6 Limited instead, except if your daily commute includes the entire stretch of the NLEX.

Whatever flavor you get it in, the Explorer is a grand bargain, and it's no wonder that Ford can't bring them in fast enough to satisfy buyers.



SPECS: FORD EXPLORER 2.0L GTDi XLT AT with EcoBoost

Engine: 2.0-liter DOHC I4 turbocharged gasoline

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Power: 240hp * 5,500rpm

Torque: 366Nm * 1,750-3,000rpm

Drive layout: FWD

Seating: 7

Price: P2,250,000

Score: 16/20

Photos by Niky Tamayo

[yapoy86]

hindi ba maliit yung 2.0L engine nyan sa laki ng explorer... kung may diesel option yan panalo na yung 3.2 i5 sana

[dragonexplorer]

Still looking for matting? I've come across a seller of Husky Liner Weatherbeater for 2011-2013 Explorer in **************. They are selling the whole set for P18,360 (1st+2nd+3rd+Cargo). They're located in QC (0917)8578707 and look for Bobby. Bobby also said I can just get the set without the cargo for P15,000. I was going to buy the set but I decided to buy from the US and have it shipped here via a consolidator instead since I'll be buying other stuff too.

Just thought I'd share this =)

[boracay7777]

Still looking for matting? I've come across a seller of Husky Liner Weatherbeater for 2011-2013 Explorer in **************. They are selling the whole set for P18,360 (1st+2nd+3rd+Cargo). They're located in QC (0917)8578707 and look for Bobby. Bobby also said I can just get the set without the cargo for P15,000. I was going to buy the set but I decided to buy from the US and have it shipped here via a consolidator instead since I'll be buying other stuff too.

Just thought I'd share this =)

Thanks. will think about this. pwede bang iuwi from US? will be going for a short trip kasi, how much is it there?

[niky]

hindi ba maliit yung 2.0L engine nyan sa laki ng explorer... kung may diesel option yan panalo na yung 3.2 i5 sana

Turbo. The 2.0T kicks ass in this variant. More punch and power than the same motor in the Volvo S60 and more power than the Hyundai Kia 2.2. Yes... the engine is big enough.

At numbah5... Still starting out... Ask me in a few months.

[macsd]

Turbo. The 2.0T kicks ass in this variant. More punch and power than the same motor in the Volvo S60 and more power than the Hyundai Kia 2.2. Yes... the engine is big enough.

At numbah5... Still starting out... Ask me in a few months.

Bro, would it perform the same way if it's fully loaded with 7 adults & loaded? I've proven it on the limited, it has slight delay on the punch but will get there in a few second with more to give. nagkaroon ng slight delay sa hatak due to weight load.

[niky]

Bro, would it perform the same way if it's fully loaded with 7 adults & loaded? I've proven it on the limited, it has slight delay on the punch but will get there in a few second with more to give. nagkaroon ng slight delay sa hatak due to weight load.

It has more torque. It's already quicker off the line. Only issue is if you use the power available, economy drops like a stone.

[boracay7777]

Parang napansin ko na hindi maganda tunog ng pinto pag sinasara, hindi solid. Also, ok lang ba pag pinatay nyo makina nakabukas pa aircon? We do this since we sometimes do remote starting para naka aircon na papunta ka pa lang.

[spynz]

[IMG][/IMG]

Nice Ex...

[macsd]

Parang napansin ko na hindi maganda tunog ng pinto pag sinasara, hindi solid. Also, ok lang ba pag pinatay nyo makina nakabukas pa aircon? We do this since we sometimes do remote starting para naka aircon na papunta ka pa lang.

My practice still prevail as i shut-off the aircon (compressor) before the engine. Come to think, leaving the compressor on is only to make sure that if you use the remote to turn the engine on , malamig na ang cabin. How many times will you use this function or you would know if you gonna use this function by the time you park & on that note, that's the time you can leave it ON. If i park under a shade, no need to leave it ON.

[boracay7777]

My practice still prevail as i shut-off the aircon (compressor) before the engine. Come to think, leaving the compressor on is only to make sure that if you use the remote to turn the engine on , malamig na ang cabin. How many times will you use this function or you would know if you gonna use this function by the time you park & on that note, that's the time you can leave it ON. If i park under a shade, no need to leave it ON.

but is there a downside from not turning the AC off before turning engine off?

[niky]

but is there a downside from not turning the AC off before turning engine off?

Extra wear to the battery if your car has a turnkey ignition and you leave it in the ON position a few seconds before starting the engine.

Turning the AC off first might make your battery last... Oh... an extra few days on top of the one to two year lifespan.

[boybi]

It was always my practice to turn off everything before killing the engine. But my batteries always break down a few days after warranty.

[3ple4]

*niky: Since you mentioned in your article that the ride of the Ecoboost is more "compliant" (meaning mas ok?) coz of the smaller wheels, ok din ba to change the Limited's wheels to 18" as well? Baka better ride and FC?