Ford Explorer: Full Frame or Unibody?
The Ford Explorer transitioned from a full frame to a unibody design in 2011. Prior to 2011, the Explorer was built on a truck frame, but from 2011 onwards, it has been built on a unibody platform. The move to a unibody design has resulted in improved fuel efficiency and a more car-like handling. The shift to a unibody platform has made the Explorer more of a crossover than a traditional SUV, offering a smoother ride and better fuel economy. The unibody design also allows for weight savings and improved cornering capabilities compared to body-on-frame rivals .
The change to a unibody design has proven to be successful for Ford, as the new Explorer has become one of the industry’s more popular SUVs. The move to a unibody design has paid off on the sales sheet, indicating that the market has responded positively to this transition.
In summary, the Ford Explorer is currently built on a unibody platform, offering improved fuel efficiency, a smoother ride, and more car-like handling compared to its previous full frame design.
Contents
- What are the best years for Ford Explorer?
- What year did Explorer become unibody?
- Which SUV is unibody?
- What body type is the Ford Explorer XLT?
- Is the 2015 Ford Explorer unibody or frame?
- Is the Ford Expedition body-on-frame?
- Is the Ford Explorer built on the f150 frame?
- Why is Ford Explorer so popular?
- Is the 2017 Ford Explorer a unibody?
- Do Ford Explorers have a full frame?
What are the best years for Ford Explorer?
A: For those considering a used Ford Explorer, the most reliable years are 1993, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2019. These models have demonstrated fewer issues over time, making them solid choices for a dependable midsize SUV.
What year did Explorer become unibody?
As Ford developed the fifth-generation Ford Explorer as a unibody crossover for the 2011 model year, the Sport Trac was phased out of the model line, with production ending in October 2010.
Which SUV is unibody?
Examples of unibody crossover-type vehicles include:
Honda CR-V. Jeep Cherokee. Ford Bronco Sport. Ford Explorer.
What body type is the Ford Explorer XLT?
MSRP
Exterior Colors | |
Drivetrain | Four Wheel Drive |
Transmission | Automatic |
MPG | 20 City / 27 Hwy |
Body Style | Sport Utility |
Is the 2015 Ford Explorer unibody or frame?
unibody
All 2015 Explorer models come standard with a front-passenger knee airbag. This current generation of the Ford Explorer, introduced for 2011, features a one-piece, unibody design rather than a ladder-type truck frame with a separate, bolted on body.
Is the Ford Expedition body-on-frame?
Built with body-on-frame construction, the 2022 Ford Expedition has more in common with the Ford F-150 than it does with other Ford SUVs.
Is the Ford Explorer built on the f150 frame?
No. Ford explorers are now unibody construction and are considered cross-over SUVs. For years, Explorers were built on Ranger frames, and as a result Ford found it hard to compete with similarly sized SUVs like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander in terms of ride and comfort.
Why is Ford Explorer so popular?
With its spacious interior, excellent handling, and wealth of safety and comfort features, it’s no wonder this SUV is so popular. If you’re looking for an SUV that can do it all, the Ford Explorer should be at the top of your list.
Is the 2017 Ford Explorer a unibody?
A linebacker with the speed of a running back, the 4980-pound Platinum is both the heftiest and quickest Explorer to go through our testing regimen since the model adopted unibody construction for the current generation that debuted for 2011.
Do Ford Explorers have a full frame?
Compared to previous models, these Explorers switched to a unibody frame. Whereas previous Explorers used a truck-based chassis, this new unibody design makes for better handling and a smoother, more car-like drive.