Activated by sensors planted in the B and C pillars, these side bags deploy independent of front bags. The rollover sensor, available later in the 2001 production year, enhances side airbag deployment by measuring whether the vehicle is leaning, changes in lean angle and whether the two combined indicate eminent rollover. If no one is sitting in the passenger seat, that bag will not deploy. Front airbags are concealed within simple dashboard styling. Explorer's straightforward dash design has a segmented look with a functional central control panel.
All switches are within convenient reach and easy to manipulate.
The speedometer could use a size boost, but bold numbering helps compensate for smallness. Its output is 240 horsepower at 4,750 rpm and 280 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. Torque in excess of 250 foot-pounds is generated at a low 1,500 rpm, giving it the grunt to tow a trailer weighing up to 7,300 pounds. It produces 210 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and 250 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. Both engines are paired with a new five-speed automatic transmission.