Ford gave Jeep and its Cherokee a shake-up when it introduced the four-wheel-drive Explorer a couple of years ago.
The American-built Explorer was chock-full of goodies that were only optional on the Jeep and it was priced to compete with its American rival, which had enjoyed strong sales since being unveiled
in New Zealand in 1996.
Both vehicles shared dated underpinnings but Ford banked on its equipment levels - dual airbags, anti-lock ABS brakes - to eat into Jeep's market.
Jeep had launched the Cherokee with a driver's airbag only. Anti-lock brakes were an option, a decision that was criticised given that Jeep was aimed at buyers who wanted to tow boats and trailers.
Jeep has updated its Cherokee over the past couple of years but the Explorer gained an early foothold for its standard equipment.
Now Ford has taken its 1999 model Explorer - on sale from last week - a step further with self-levelling suspension, additional safety features and an overall upgrade.
The new suspension system has been aimed at the towing market. It uses a compressor to increase or decrease pressure to the gas shock absorbers depending on the load.
Conrad Healy, the Explorer brand manager, said: "Engineers from Ford's light-truck programme in the United States worked with us during development to ensure the new suspension handled the wide range of New Zealand conditions.
"An engineer from the American shock absorber supplier, Arnin, also participated and together the three teams devised a new suspension configuration specific to New Zealand Explorers, which we believe has resulted in an outstanding vehicle ride and handling."
The Explorer XLT is powered by a 4-litre V6 engine producing 153kW and mated to a five-speed automatic transmission driving Ford's full-time four-wheel-drive system. The drivetrain is unchanged.
Styling changes include reworked front bumpers and headlights and new running boards. The roof rack has been strengthened to carry a heavier load.
There is a choice of two interior packages, with velour trim as standard. The leather upgrade also includes a six-stack CD player and chrome exhaust extension.
The standard model costs $56,500, the leather upgrade $59,500.
