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The next-generation Ford Explorer was recently spotted, and the latest test mule was sporting the 2011 Explorer production front end on the body of a Taurus X crossover SUV. Ford's mules usually feature body panels from various production models, and previous Explorer mules were spotted with both Taurus X and Flex body panels. The 2011 Explorer will ride on Ford's unibody D3 chassis, with production slated to begin in summer 2010 at Chicago's Torrence Avenue plant.
In the powertrain department, the Explorer test mule was sporting a dual exhaust setup, which could indicate the mule is packing Ford's 3.5L twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6 underneath the hood. When the 2011 Explorer goes on sale, it is expected to be offered with both the 3.5L V-6 and a smaller, turbocharged 2.0L I-4.
Source: SEMA eNews