Ford Launches Leaner Explorer SUV After First Redesign in a Decade
- Money maker finally gets modern makeover as segment sales soar
- Redesign results in leaner look, shedding of 200 pounds
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Ford Motor Co., losing ground in the sport utility vehicle business it helped pioneer, is rolling out the first redesign of its bread-and-butter Explorer since President Obama was in his first term and the auto industry was recovering from a debilitating recession.
This latest Explorer -- unveiled Wednesday by Executive Chairman Bill Ford at Ford Field, the stadium home to his family-owned football team, the Detroit Lions -- lands as the auto industry may be heading into another downturn. It’s crucial the redesign is a hit as Ford defends its turf in a still-growing and lucrative segment and embarks on a costly, years-long restructuring.