Ford SUV: An American Tradition
While Ford can proudly claim rights to creating the very first SUV ever, the Model T Depot Hack back in 1908, they can also claim to be proudly producing the best SUVs on the road today. Equipped with all the cargo space, passenger room and power needed to transport you and your loved ones to the ski slopes, the lake or college dorms, Ford has been outfitting American consumers with the proper vehicles to take them everywhere they need to go.
In today’s market, Ford offers 8 choices of SUV’s and crossovers. With rumors that the Bronco is to make a return, fans are rushing to Irwin Ford dealers to see if it’s true. You won’t need to look any further than Irwin Ford NH to check out the latest and greatest of Ford SUV’s. Trust the name that has built America’s SUV brand and automotive industry.
Bronco 1966-1996
The Bronco originated in 1966 as a response to the Jeep CJ and International Scout. Offered in a cabin, half cab and the less popular, roadster, which was eventually dropped to pick up the sports package. By 1978 the second generation came on a larger, redesigned package modeled after the shortened F-100 pickup. This was the last model to use a solid front axle. The Bronco received redesigns both in the beginning of its third generation in 1980 and in its fifth generation, 1992. Updates to size, transmission and powertrain were consistent with generation redesigns.
There was a Bronco II that was introduced in 1984 but lasted only until 1990 when the Explorer took over. Designed as a compact, smaller Bronco, it never saw the same success as its older brother. Ford would not release another compact SUV until the Escape in 2001.
Explorer 1991
The Explorer picks up where the Bronco left off and has become the iconic SUV. In its first generation, the Explorer sold over 300,00 units per year outselling Jeep and the Chevy Blazer. In its second generation, it sold over 400,000 units per year. By 1994, its third year of existence, the Explorer became the 9th best-selling car in the U.S. Impressive, no?
It remained the number one selling SUV in America until the gas prices started significantly rising and fuel efficiency started taking top priority. Since then, Ford has improved the Explorer’s fuel economy and taken strides to provide comfort, improve the drive quality and towing capacity that consumers have come to expect.
Expedition 1997
Where the Explorer took over for the compact Bronco II, the Expedition did the same for the Bronco. Built on the F150 platform it’s nickname as the “Big Kahuna” is certainly accurate. As the largest SUV in the Ford family, it is no wonder that Texas holds 20% of all Expedition sales. I have heard that everything is bigger in Texas.
Currently in its third generation, the Expedition is available in V8 options for towing capacity or V6 EcoBoost for fuel efficiency which still offers 365 horsepower and 420 best-in-class torque. As a luxury SUV, the Expedition is perfect for active families who live on the go and ready for another adventure. With available third-row seating providing plenty of space for extra passengers or cargo
Excursion 2000-2005
Introduced at the height of extra large SUV’s, the excursion was even bigger than the Expedition, leading the Ford SUVs in size. However, its size was sometimes too big. At 77.2 inches tall, it was sometimes too tall to clear certain garages. Powered by a standard 5.4L V8 engine, producing 255 horsepower and 310 lb/ft of torque, it also offered a V10 for the even heftier jobs. With 7.3L of Power Stroke turbo diesel produced 525 lb/ft of torque and could tow up to 10,000 lbs. Available in all luxury trims, the Excursion was top drawer.
While the cost of gas was low during its first couple years, rising fuel prices coupled with the size of the Excursion ultimately led to its untimely end.
Escape 2001
From the largest to the smallest, the Escape is the smallest on Ford's SUV lineup. Since entering the market in 2001, the Escape has marked Ford’s place in the crossover segment as well. With the acknowledgement that most SUV drivers do not need off-roading capabilities but do prefer the interior size as well and safety features and cargo room, the Escape was built to be smaller than all other SUV’s. Getting better fuel efficiency than other Ford’s, the Escape introduced a hybrid in 2005. By 2009, the updated hybrid was getting 34 mpg generated by a more powerful V6, but that wasn’t enough to sustain it. By 2013, both the hybrid and V6 were discontinued. The Escape did get a total makeover for the 2013 year that included a redesign as well as EcoBoost engine options to make up for the discontinued V6. Currently, the Escape is offered in three trims and gets about 32 mpg.
The Edge 2007
No, not U2’s silent bassist. The Edge is Ford’s midsize crossover larger than the Escape. Tired of putting out truck like SUVs, Ford decided to make a crossover that would still reflect their values of strength, power, comfort and luxury. The Edge immediately became a crossover for families. Starting out in 2007 with a V6 engine producing 265 horsepower, the strength was all there. Because of its relative youthfulness, the Edge comes standard with the latest in safety technology including hands-free liftgate, front 180 degrees camera, blind spot information and available lane change system. Completely redesigned and updated for the 2015 year, the Edge now comes with an EcoBoost 4 cylinder that acts like a V6.
The Flex 2009
As the full size in this crossover segment, Ford made the Flex its most distinguishable in appearance. With a large, rather boxy stature, the Flex reminds Ford buyers how flexible their brand is while remaining constant in providing the best in quality, power and strength. As a seven-passenger vehicle, it possesses the highly demanded third row with power folding seats. When the back to rows are folded, the cargo space opens up to 83.2 cubic inches. After receiving its last redesign in 2013, it too got an EcoBoost V6 engine providing 365 horsepower.