radials on our tester, and bulging fender flares. The P235/75R15 tires are mounted on cast aluminum wheels.
The front suspension is independent, using Ford's recently introduced short- and long-arm design. At the rear--a
vestige of its truck heritage--is a two-leaf variable rate spring for each wheel. Disc brakes are used all around
and ABS is standard, features that give the Explorer an edge over many of its competitors.
The major exterior change for 1998 is a new liftgate. The glass-release handle is larger and the window is larger.
The taillamps, license plate attachments, the high stop light and name badges are new.
We liked the new rear liftgate a lot. There is a simple T-handle marked "Gate" on one side, "Window" on the other.
Turn toward "Gate" and the top-hinged door rises easily and parks up and well out of the way. Turn the handle
toward "Window" and the glass can be raised by itself. Another feature we liked is a convenient interior power
lock/unlock button on top of the left rear wheel-well for operating the door locks when standing at the back of
the vehicle. Privacy glass is part of the XLT package and more lightly tinted glass is standard on all models. Next Page