As an Uber driver, selecting the right vehicle is crucial for providing passengers with a comfortable and efficient ride while ensuring profitability. One vehicle that has garnered attention in recent years is the Ford Explorer.
In this guide, we will delve deeper into the various aspects of the Ford Explorer, discussing its suitability as an Uber vehicle, examining its features, comparing it to other popular options, and offering additional tips for potential Uber drivers.
Contents
Overview of the Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV in production since 1990. Over the years, it has evolved through multiple generations, with the latest models offering a range of advanced features and capabilities. Some key attributes of the Ford Explorer include:
- Spacious and comfortable interior
- Powerful engine options
- Advanced safety and infotainment features
- Competitive fuel efficiency
- Versatile cargo space
Suitability of the Ford Explorer for Uber
When evaluating the suitability of the Ford Explorer as an Uber vehicle, it’s essential to consider factors such as passenger comfort, fuel efficiency, reliability, and overall cost of ownership. Here’s a closer look at how the Ford Explorer fares in these areas:
1. Passenger Comfort
The Ford Explorer offers seating for up to seven passengers, making it an excellent option for Uber drivers who frequently transport more prominent groups.
The spacious cabin provides ample legroom and headroom, ensuring a comfortable ride for passengers of all sizes. The Explorer’s interior is outfitted with high-quality materials and well-designed ergonomics, contributing to a pleasant ride experience.
The Ford Explorer also features advanced climate control systems, including dual-zone automatic temperature control and rear auxiliary climate control, ensuring passengers remain comfortable throughout their ride.
Moreover, the Explorer offers a range of seating options, including power-adjustable front seats and available heated and ventilated front seats, further enhancing passenger comfort.
2. Fuel Efficiency
While the Ford Explorer may not boast the exact fuel efficiency figures as smaller sedans or hybrids, it offers its class-competitive fuel economy.
Depending on the engine option, the Explorer can achieve up to 27 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway and 20 mpg in the city. This makes it a reasonable choice for Uber drivers who prioritize passenger capacity over maximum fuel efficiency.
3. Reliability and Maintenance
The Ford Explorer has a reputation for being a reliable and durable vehicle. It’s built with high-quality components to withstand daily wear and tear, making it a suitable choice for Uber drivers who spend long hours on the road.
However, as with any vehicle, routine maintenance, and timely repairs are essential for ensuring the Explorer’s longevity and performance.
In terms of maintenance, the Ford Explorer is equipped with an Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor system that helps drivers stay informed about when oil changes are needed.
Additionally, the Explorer features a comprehensive suite of available driver-assist technologies, such as Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, and a Lane-Keeping System, which can help prevent accidents and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs.
4. Overall Cost of Ownership
When considering the overall cost of ownership, factors such as the purchase price, insurance premiums, fuel expenses, and maintenance costs must be considered.
While the Ford Explorer may have a higher initial purchase price than smaller sedans or hatchbacks, its versatility, passenger capacity, and durability can help offset this cost over time.
The Explorer’s competitive fuel efficiency can also help reduce ongoing fuel expenses.
Ford Explorer Features
To better understand the Ford Explorer’s suitability as an Uber vehicle, let’s take a closer look at some of its key features:
1. Engine Options
The Ford Explorer offers multiple engine options for different driving needs and preferences. These include:
- A 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-four engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque
- A 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine producing 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque in the Platinum trim, or 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque in the ST trim
- A 3.3-liter hybrid powertrain producing a combined 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque
These engine options provide ample power for smooth acceleration and confident highway merging, ensuring a comfortable ride for passengers.
2. Cargo Space and Storage
The Ford Explorer offers versatile cargo space, up to 87.8 cubic feet of storage capacity when the second-and third-row seats are folded down. This is particularly useful for Uber drivers who frequently transport luggage or large items.
Additionally, the Explorer features various storage compartments throughout the cabin, including door pockets, a center console bin, and rear-seat cubbies, providing convenient storage options for passengers’ belongings.
3. Infotainment and Connectivity
The Ford Explorer comes equipped with the SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and an available Wi-Fi hotspot.
This provides passengers with various entertainment options and ensures seamless smartphone integration during their ride.
4. Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for Uber drivers, and the Ford Explorer boasts various advanced safety features. Some of these include:
- Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of driver-assist technologies such as a Blind Spot Information System, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Automatic High Beams
- Available Active Park Assist 2.0, which can help drivers navigate tight parking spaces
- Available Reverse Brake Assist, which can help prevent collisions while backing up
These safety features provide peace of mind for passengers and help reduce the likelihood of accidents and associated repair costs.
Comparing the Ford Explorer to Other Popular Uber Vehicles
To better understand the Ford Explorer’s suitability as an Uber vehicle, let’s compare it to some other popular options in the ridesharing industry:
1. Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is a popular choice among Uber drivers due to its exceptional fuel efficiency, achieving up to 58 mpg in the city and 53 mpg on the highway.
However, the Prius offers seating for only five passengers and less cargo space than the Ford Explorer. If fuel efficiency is your top priority, the Prius may be a better choice.
However, the Explorer is worth considering if you require additional passenger capacity and cargo space.
2. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is another popular option for Uber drivers, offering seating for up to five passengers and fuel efficiency of up to 32 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway.
While the Civic provides a comfortable ride and has a lower initial purchase price than the Explorer, it lacks the passenger capacity and cargo space that the Explorer offers.
3. Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan that seats up to five passengers and achieves a fuel efficiency of up to 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway.
The Camry offers a comfortable ride and a reputation for reliability. However, like the Honda Civic, it lacks the additional seating and cargo capacity of the Ford Explorer.
Final Thoughts
The Ford Explorer offers a spacious and comfortable ride for passengers, making it a suitable option for Uber drivers who prioritize passenger capacity and versatility.
While it may not boast the same fuel efficiency as smaller sedans or hybrids, its competitive fuel economy for its class, reliability, overall cost of ownership, and advanced features make it an appealing choice for many rideshare drivers.
Considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can make a well-informed decision about whether the Ford Explorer is the right vehicle for your Uber driving needs.
Hey there! I’m Dave, an experienced Uber driver and the driving force behind this blog. Since 2015, I’ve been sharing my wealth of knowledge and practical advice on all things Uber.
From maximizing your earnings to navigating surge pricing and choosing efficient routes, I’ve got you covered. I’m passionate about empowering fellow drivers, creating a sense of community and support.
Join me on this exciting journey as I guide you through the ins and outs of the rideshare world, helping you become an Uber expert. Let’s hit the road together and unlock the secrets to success in the world of Uber.
