Ford Explorer XLT SUV 4x4 2011

Sharing its new car-based platform with the Taurus sedan, the redesigned Ford Explorer moves squarely into the crossover realm, pitting it against competitors like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot and Chevrolet Traverse.

Fuel economy improves, thanks to a smaller V-6 and an available turbocharged four-cylinder. Without last year's optional V-8, however, towing capacity drops to a crossover-competitive 5,000 pounds. Front-wheel drive and three rows of seats are standard; all-wheel drive with Ford's new Terrain Management System is optional. Ford's MyFord Touch system, with touch-sensitive controls similar to those in the restyled Edge crossover, is also optional.

Trim levels include the base, XLT and Limited. All three come with the V-6; the turbo four-cylinder will be optional on front-wheel-drive models.