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More Content, Greater Value to be Hallmarks of 2006 Ford Explorer

By: Paul Dodd | Ford Communications Network

The 2006 Ford Explorer has options like a power-fold third-row seat and a DVD navigation system. For more information, go to fordvehicles.com.
DEARBORN, Aug. 2, 2005 -- The 2006 Ford Explorer will be available in four different trim levels and will cost less than the 2005 model by an average of $1,750. The reduction in sticker prices will range from a $635 savings on the XLS model to $3,900 on the Eddie Bauer edition.

There will be new options available on the Explorer for 2006, including 18-inch chrome-clad wheels, a DVD-based navigation system, a power-fold third-row seat with a 50-50 split, leather-trimmed bolster with Preferred SuedeTM seat inserts on Eddie Bauer models and a one-touch moonroof. Later this year, SIRIUS satellite radio will be available as a factory-installed option on the 2006 Explorer.

Here is a look at the four trim levels available on the 2006 Ford Explorer:

2006 Explorer XLS ($27,175 base series MSRP, incl. $645 destination charge)

Standard equipment includes remote keyless entry system; speed control; driver's message center with compass and outside temperature indicator; power windows, locks and mirrors; air conditioning; floor console with storage; rear vents and power points; Cargo Management System; AM/FM stereo with single CD/MP3; driver manual lumbar support, and tire pressure monitoring system warning light.

2006 Explorer XLT ($28,870 base series MSRP, including $645 destination charge)

Standard equipment includes XLS content, plus 6-way power driver's seat with manual lumbar support; chromed 4-bar grille; unique bumper and trim treatment; 16-inch machined aluminum wheels; fog lamps and puddle lamps; leather-wrapped steering wheel; and overhead storage console and second row dome/map light.

2006 Explorer Eddie Bauer ($30,845 base series MSRP, including $645 destination charge)

Standard equipment includes XLT content, plus distinctive Eddie Bauer styling with unique two-tone bumper and trim treatment; unique chromed 3-bar grille; Pueblo Gold running boards; silver roof side rails with black end caps; 17-inch painted aluminum wheels with all-terrain tires; automatic headlamps; woodgrain interior accents; leather-trimmed seats (available with Preferred SuedeTM insert at no charge); 10-way power driver?s seat; four-line message center with trip computer; electrochromic rearview mirror; and remote keyless entry with keypad.

By adding the new Eddie Bauer Luxury Package, customers also receive dual zone electronic automatic temperature controls; Audiophile with 6-disc in-dash CD/MP3 player and AM/FM radio; steering wheel audio/climate controls; leather-trimmed heated front seats; 6-way power passenger w/manual lumbar and recline; and power heated exterior mirrors with puddle lamps for $1,700.

2006 Explorer Limited ($33,160 base series MSRP, including $645 destination charge)

Standard equipment includes Eddie Bauer content, plus distinctive styling with a chromed 4-bar grille; unique bumper and trim treatment; chromed roof side rails with black end caps; 17-inch chrome wheels; unique woodgrain interior accents and monochromatic appearance; heated front seats; driver memory seat; 6-way power passenger seat; Audiophile with 6-disc in-dash CD/MP3 player and AM/FM radio; dual zone electronic automatic temperature control; and leather-wrapped steering wheel with redundant audio and climate controls.

Customers can opt for even more authentic 4x4 capability for an additional $2,225, available for each trim series. For an additional $1,200, those looking for more power and performance can select the optional new 4.6-liter three-valve V-8 engine (292 hp and 300 ft-lbs torque) mated to the 6-speed automatic transmission. In addition to delivering higher towing and payload limits, it boasts up to 10 percent better fuel economy under EPA highway driving conditions for 4x4 models.

Year-Over-Year Base Price Comparison*
2005 Model
2005 MY
Base Pricing
2006 Model
2006 MY
Base Pricing
Difference
Explorer XLS $27,810 Explorer XLS $27,175 $(635)
Explorer XLT $30,645 Explorer XLT $28,870 $(1,775)
Explorer XLT Sport $32,015 Explorer Eddie Bauer $30,845 $(1,170)
Explorer Eddie Bauer $34,745 Explorer Eddie Bauer $30,845 $(3,900)
Explorer Limited $35,630 Explorer Limited $33,160 $(2,470)

*--All prices for 2005 and 2006 models include $645 destination and delivery