Explorer Nose Job

AutoBlog points out that the new front end design on the 2006 Ford Explorer is not terribly exciting. I find the bling annoying, it looks out of place. To me and many others, the design looks like it was cribbed from Audi. Couldn't J Mays and co. think of something more original?


2006 Explorer


2006 Audi A3


2006 VW Jetta

In the good news department, the Explorer gets the 4.6L-3V motor, common with the Mustang GT, with a large HP boost from 239 to 292. Torque goes from 282 to 300 ft-lbs. If they didn't add too much weight, that means that fuel economy should go up a little, which would be a welcome improvement on the Explorer.

Update: The new VW nose also has a family resemblance!