ALL-NEW in the Explorer are side-impact curtain airbags, three channel ABS with electronic brake distribution and driver and passenger dual-stage airbags with tailored deployment characteristics. The new all-aluminium 4.6 litre SOHC V8 delivers 178kW. There is also a new maintenance-free, wide-ratio five-speed automatic transmission giving improved city and highway merging performance and better NVH. The Explorer's passenger compartment is 63.5mm wider and for the first time offers integrated third row seating. The fully independent rear suspension incorporates a space-saving porthole-in-frame design that allows for more interior space in the rear of the vehicle without sacrificing frame strength. On XLT, the optional safety package includes side-curtain airbags to help protect passengers from side impact.