Considering a New 2007 XLT

[Sethboy]

I'm considering a new 2007 XLT.

whats the difference (functional not cosmetic/appearance) between the 16, 17 and 18 inch wheel sizes ?

One of my main nagging complaints is those stupid new (inside) door handles. im used to the 04 which has the other style.

also, im considering the v8 instead of the v6,

any thoughts appreciated

 

[TinytimTony8]

I think they fixed the door handles in the '07s so it is easier to open and close.

 

[shaker1]

One thing that escaped me was the 16 inch wheels come with "All Season" tires and the 17" upgraded wheels come with "All Terrain" tires. This was for 06, I suspect 07 is the same. I would guess the A/S tires are better for mainly street driving (quieter, better mileage) and the A/T better for their off-road capability.

 

[bobbyg123]

I too am considering an XLT with Ironman package. I've never been a huge Ford fan, but I tip my hat to them for going against the norm and offering an impressive option package (ironman) on their "low end" trim model.

18" rims
leather
heated seats
etc.

You can CURRENTLY get a V8XLT with Ironman package for around $29K, and this will surely drop in a few months once rebates and financing incentives kick in. Pretty darn good value.

 

[shaker1]

I suppose after swimming 2.4 miles in that frigid water you could really appreciate heated seats!

 

[djv]

I'm considering a new 2007 XLT.

whats the difference (functional not cosmetic/appearance) between the 16, 17 and 18 inch wheel sizes ?

One of my main nagging complaints is those stupid new (inside) door handles. im used to the 04 which has the other style.

also, im considering the v8 instead of the v6,

any thoughts appreciated

The 16's look small, and the 17's have a nice machined aluminum face. I have the 17's with the AT tires and the ride is very smooth and quiet. I also have the same AT tires on my F150 with 18" rims and have minimal tire wear @ 25,000 miles.

I got used to the odd door handles on our '06 XLT. In order to get the side-impact insurance safety rating, Ford designed them that way. Insurance on these Explorers is very cheap because they have so many safety features.

We have the V6, and I have no complaints about power or gas mileage. Smooth running and quiet. My friend has the V8 in his XLT, and with the V8 you get the new six speed automatic transmission. I noticed his six speed transmission shifted in-and-out alot more. It was very noticeable while towing a small dirt bike trailer on the highway. The six speed tranny could not hold 6th gear, so it was constantly jumping down to fifth. We had to flip-off the OD button, so we ran in fifth gear. Also, around town driving you will notice the extra shifting of the six speed V8.

We average about 18mpg with the V6 XLT, and I have gotten as much as 22mpg on highway trips. My buddies V8 XLT averages about 15mpg and he also gets about 20mpg on the highway. Both engines are good, but that six speed tranny drives me crazy. I prefer a 4speed tranny like one one in my F150.

 

[shaker1]

I am getting used to the door handles too. I agree on the mileage (18 mixed) and V-6 having adequate power. I suppose, if I planned on towing I would have held out for a V-8.

 

[07LoadedLimited]

I haven't ran into any issues with my door handles....I actually kind of like the new design. I have the 18 inch wheels and, in my opinion, there's no real functional difference....just a cosmetic one. I also have the V6 (towing package changed the rear gear ratio) and I find the acceleration to be acceptable for an SUV...it's not like I'm going to be racing anyone. The gas mileage could be better, but I plan on installing the KKM air intake asap.

Overall, I'm impressed with the Explorer and I get a fair share of "looks" and "compliments"....no big deal really, but it puts a smile on my face.