The all-new Ford Explorer is sport auto’s “SUV of the Year”

The all-new Ford Explorer has been named “SUV of the Year” by Sport Auto Middle East magazine, one of the region's leading and veteran car publications.

The all-new Ford Explorer edged out other nameplates to win the "Afdal Award" as the magazine's SUV of the Year 2012, which was presented to Ford Middle East on the opening day of the 2011 Dubai International Motor Show.

“The Ford Explorer has a very strong following not only in North America but here in the region as well," said Larry Prein, Ford Middle East's managing director. "And being named SUV of the Year is quite a feat for the all-new Ford Explorer as it’s a clear vote of confidence that our One Ford plan is working to deliver vehicles people truly want and value, with industry-leading quality, fuel efficiency, safety and smart technologies."

During the award presentation ceremony, Gerard Saunal, Editor-in-Chief of Sport Auto said:  “There is no doubt about the overall performance, driving dynamics and smart technologies of the Ford Explorer – it is quite a character. The latest generation Explorer embodies the modern SUV on all fronts, and is a far cry from its predecessors. It has exceeded our expectations."

The all-new Ford Explorer has received various honours and recognitions, including the coveted North American Truck of the Year award for 2011, while its innovative and industry-first rear inflatable seat belt technology won the 2011 Best New Technology Award from the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada and has been named a Breakthrough Product Award winner by Popular Mechanics.