Carmakers hit with 4Runner, Explorer // Not your average ute

With auto giants behind them, it's not surprising that the FordExplorer and Toyota 4Runner are among the most accomplishedsport/utility vehicles.

These two sport/utes look and feel significantly different.Here is what I found while recently testing them:

Explorer: The Ford Explorer has been the top-sellingsport/utility since its debut in early 1990, but Ford knows it mustkeep improving its champ to keep it ahead of the game.For 1997, the $20,085-$35,005 Explorer is offered with apowerful new single-overhead-camshaft V-6 and innovative five-speedautomatic transmission to help it stay on top.The new Explorer, which comes with two or four doors and withrear- …