What year did Ford change Explorer body style?
The Ford Explorer, one of the most popular SUVs in the United States, has undergone several body style changes over the years. The most significant change occurred in 2011, when Ford introduced a completely redesigned Explorer with a more modern, car-like unibody construction, moving away from the previous body-on-frame design.
The Evolution of the Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer was first introduced in 1990 as a replacement for the Ford Bronco II. The original Explorer featured a body-on-frame design, similar to a traditional truck, and was available in both two-door and four-door configurations.
In 1995, Ford introduced the second-generation Explorer, which featured a more rounded, aerodynamic design. This model remained in production until 2001, when the third-generation Explorer was introduced.
The third-generation Explorer, produced from 2002 to 2010, saw a more angular and boxy design, with a more pronounced front grille and a more upright stance. This model continued to use the body-on-frame construction.
The 2011 Body Style Change
In 2011, Ford unveiled the fourth-generation Explorer, which represented a significant departure from the previous models. The 2011 Explorer featured a unibody construction, similar to a car, rather than the traditional body-on-frame design. This change was made to improve the vehicle's handling, fuel efficiency, and overall driving dynamics.
The 2011 Explorer also featured a more modern, streamlined design, with a lower, more aerodynamic profile and a more sculpted exterior. This design change was part of Ford's effort to make the Explorer more appealing to a wider range of consumers, including those who were looking for a more car-like SUV experience.p>
Since the 2011 redesign, the Ford Explorer has continued to evolve, with subsequent generations introducing new features, technologies, and design elements. However, the core unibody construction and more car-like driving dynamics have remained a defining characteristic of the modern Explorer.
