Heralding its new chrome grill, big and bright headlights, better fuel economy and lower emissions, the 2006 Ford Explorer has been named Truck of the Year by the Detroit Free Press. The Explorer’s new V8 engine, mated to a smooth six-speed automatic transmission, produces 53 more horsepower but 10 percent better fuel economy than the previous model. In addition, the base V6 engine's emissions are down an amazing 74 percent from the 2005 model and are certified to the same federal standard as Ford's gasoline-electric Escape hybrid SUV. The Explorer also features a wide array of standard safety features, such as antilock brakes, rollover-preventing stability control and front-seat side air bags. The front doors also feature a hefty four-inch foam block to protect occupants in a side impact.