(October 27, 2011) DEARBORN, Mich. — America’s love affair with the Ford Explorer is stronger than ever with more than 100,000 Explorers sold this year – making it the fastest-growing midsize utility in the nation.
 
“The Explorer continues to be one of the strongest vehicles in the Ford portfolio, and we are excited to see it surpass the 100,000-sales plateau for the first time since 2007,” said Amy Marentic, group marketing manager. “The success of this vehicle is further evidence we are delivering products that people want.”
 
This year the all-new Explorer has had stronger retail sales growth than any midsize utility, having either tripled or quadrupled sales in all regions of the country. In total, U.S. retail sales of Explorer are up 290 percent compared to the same period in 2010.
 
“With best-in-class fuel economy and technology like MyFord Touch, terrain management and the world’s first second-row inflatable seat belts, Ford has shown that our dedication to customers’ needs is paying off,” said Marentic.
 
Explorer’s retail share performance has also increased dramatically. Through August of this year, Explorer accounts for 6.3 percent retail share of the midsize utility segment, a 4.5 point share increase over last year, making it one of the best-selling midsize utilities in America.
 
Explorer sales in the U.S. have exceeded 100,000 for the first time since 2007.
 
The utility segment has changed over the last decade. In 2000, utility sales accounted for approximately 20 percent of the market. Today, utilities account for just over 30 percent of all vehicles sold in the U.S., an approximate 50 percent share increase in the last 10 years.
 
“We know many consumers have a strong need for utility vehicles, even as rising gas prices made fuel efficiency one of their top concerns,” said Erich Merkle, Ford sales analyst. “Ford answered our customers’ needs in the utility segment by offering its all-new 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine in the 2012 Ford Explorer and Edge.”
 
The Explorer powered by EcoBoost delivers a class-leading EPA rating of 28 mpg on the highway, besting Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander by 3 mpg.