Explorer adds a new engine and transmission for 1997. A SOHC 4.0-liter V-6 joins the OHV V-6 and 5.0-liter V-8. The new SOHC engine produces 205-hp and 245lb-ft of torque. This is an increase of 45hp over the OHV V-6. Ford is offering a new 5-speed automatic transmission on both V-6 engines. Explorer's equipped with the V-6 engine benefit from a revised Control-Trac system that offers Low/High/Auto modes for operation of the 4-wheel drive.

What Changed:

Explorer adds a new engine and transmission for 1997. A SOHC 4.0-liter V-6 joins the OHV V-6 and 5.0-liter V-8. The new SOHC engine produces 205-hp and 245lb-ft of torque. This is an increase of 45hp over the OHV V-6. Ford is offering a new 5-speed automatic transmission on both V-6 engines. Explorer's equipped with the V-6 engine benefit from a revised Control-Trac system that offers Low/High/Auto modes for operation of the 4-wheel drive.