The 2010 Explorer was actually the last Ford to use the Cologne V6. What’s interesting about this engine? It was produced, in various iterations, continuously since 1968. With a displacement range from 1.8 to 4.0 liters, it fulfilled a diverse role in motivating Fords throughout the late 60s, the 70s, and the 80s. Early models were mostly European Fords (thus the plant in Cologne, Germany). But later models started making their way stateside, until the Cologne V6 powered every small truck Ford sold. The latter-day explorers are the first and only iteration of the Cologne (aside from the specialty Cosworth) to eschew pushrods in favor of single overhead cams. So even drivers buying SUVs just a few years ago were buying into a family of engines dating back over 40 years. An interesting notion about where we came from, and where we’re going.