Ford Group Philippines has just launched the latest generation model of the Ford Explorer, promising to raise expectations in the for the SUV segment.

At the Rockwell Tent in Makati, Ford executives revealed the Explorer for the first time to the public, an SUV that combines a bold and sporty design meant for the needs of today's SUV customer.

The Explorer is an entirely new vehicle, sporting a new 3.5 liter V-6 engine capable of 290 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque. Matched with the new engine is a 6-speed SelectShift Automatic driving an intelligent 4-wheel drive system with terrain management. Ford touts that the new Explorer can deliver up to a 20% improvement in fuel economy compared to the old model.

"This all new Explorer adds class leading fuel efficiency to a legendary portfolio of performance and customer convenience," said Mr. Randy Krieger, Ford Philippines President. "SUV customers in general - and Explorer customers specifically - told us they want the freedom and empowerment Explorer always has stood for, with improved performance and significantly increased fuel economy."

The new Explorer comes with a myriad of high tech features including the MyFord Touch, Ford SYNC, Advancetrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control), dual panoramic moonroofs, front airbags and side curtain airbags.

Furthermore, Krieger expressed confidence with the new vehicle and estimated that sales of the new Explorer will surpass that of its predecessor by as much as 10 times. FGP has announced that the Explorer will have an introductory price of just PhP 2,350,000.

Ford Philippines annnounces best-ever monthly sales in September

At the same launch event for the Explorer, Ford Philippines executives also announced their best ever sales month in their history in the country, as 965 units were sold in September.

Compared to the same month in the past year (September 2010), Ford's sales have increased by 57%, largely attributed to the Ford Fiesta which sold 345 units this past month; also its best ever figure since being launched in October last year. The Everest also bucked up the figures with sales of 320 units in September.

"These terrific numbers provide us with enormous confidence as we launch the all new Explorer and gear up for the launch of the all new Ford Ranger early next year, two vehicles we know that our customers will love," said Mr. Randy Krieger, Ford Philippines President.