Wheelbase, or the distance between the front and rear axles on your vehicle, affects your car’s balance and handling. If you’re in the market for a

Ford Explorer

, the best-selling SUV has a wheelbase measurement of 119.1 inches.

When we’re on the hunt for a new vehicle, factors most drivers consider such as price tag, safety features, and power performance usually go to the top of the list. But what about the wheelbase of your future ride—and why does it matter?

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What is the wheelbase of a Ford Explorer?

The 2022 Ford Explorer has a wheelbase of 119.1 inches. This wheelbase measurement, along with a 7.5/10 rating from Car and Driver and a peppy turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, proves the Ford Explorer handles well overall. But if you want better road grip, consider the ST-Line or

trims that feature suspension upgrades for improved handling.

MORE:

Car loan for Ford 2022

Why is wheelbase important?

Let’s get back to the basics: what do we actually mean when we say wheelbase? Wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles of your vehicle. To put it another way, it’s the distance between the center of the front wheels and the center of the back wheels.

The wheelbase measurement of your vehicle plays an important role in terms of ride and handling. But it also factors into how much cabin space you’ll have in your vehicle.

A longer wheelbase usually comes with a spacious interior, thus creating a comfortable ride for you, your passengers, and any cargo you may require. It also provides more stability, especially when you’re driving at high speeds. On the other hand, a shorter wheelbase tends to handle sharper turns at higher speeds—which might prove to be a more exciting drive.

Key Takeaway In addition to cabin space and handling, wheelbase also establishes how safely your vehicle can navigate through various road conditions.

MORE:

How to build a custom Ford Explorer

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How has the wheelbase changed over the Ford Explorer model years?

The Ford Explorer certainly has evolved over time, and those changes include its wheelbase. Here’s how the Explorer wheelbase has changed over six generations:

First generation (1991 to 1994): 102.1 to 111.9 inches

Second generation (1995 to 2001): 101.7 to 111.6 inches

Third generation (2002 to 2005): 113.7 to 113.8 inches

Fourth generation (2006 to 2010): 113.7 inches

Fifth generation (2011 to 2019): 112.6 inches

Sixth generation (2020 to present): 119.1 inches

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How does the Ford Explorer wheelbase compare to other models?

The Ford Explorer comes standard with a 119.1-inch wheelbase across all trim levels. But the best-selling SUV dominates compared to other Ford SUV models. For instance, the

Ford Escape

jas a 112.2-inch wheelbase. Even the latest

Ford Bronco

falls behind, with a wheelbase length that ranges from 100.4 to 116.1 inches.

The only two Ford SUVs to surpass the Explorer’s wheelbase length are the mighty

Ford Expedition

, with a standard length of 122.5 inches, and the even mightier

Ford Expedition Max

, which boasts an impressive 131.6 inches of wheelbase for all trim levels.

Long wheelbase vs. short wheelbase: which is better?

Like most things in life—it depends! As we have discussed so far, a long wheelbase is vital for superior handling when you’re behind the wheel. In contrast, a short wheelbase offers a sportier ride that’s easier to maneuver, especially around sharp turns.

Still, a long wheelbase provides many perks besides handling. It creates more interior space to provide a comfortable ride for you and your passengers, which is why you’ll notice that most luxury cars tend to have longer wheelbases. It’s also ideal when it comes to safety since you’ll have an easier time controlling your vehicle when the weight is evenly distributed overall.

How to save money on car insurance for your Ford Explorer

No matter how much safety your long wheelbase will provide you, it’s still crucial to further protect yourself (and your ride!) with the best car insurance coverage around. And comparison super app

Jerry

is here to make the process as hassle-free and smooth as possible.

Here’s how it works: just download the Jerry app and sign up within 45 seconds. From there, you’ll unlock multiple customized quotes from top insurance providers. Choose a new policy that works for you and Jerry’s team of expert agents will get straight to work switching you over—and we’ll even help you cancel your old policy.

How much can you save? On average, Jerry users save over $800 on car insurance every year when they make the switch!

“I thought my previous insurance rate was the best I could get, since I have a luxury SUV. After
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