The original Ford Explorer was to SUVs what the Model T was to cars. It was the model that got America hooked on driving trucks instead of minivans and station wagons.
In a world with lower gas prices, the Explorer would probably still be doing well. It offers what truck-based SUV buyers want with a conservatively handsome design, relatively good handling and good all-around quality.
Unfortunately for Ford, that's some other world - not this one.
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