2006 Ford Explorer Sales at 15-Year Low

Ford Motor Co. is falling short of sales targets with its latest version of the Explorer, which has outsold all other sport utility vehicles for the last 15 years.

Sales of the 2006 Explorer totaled 12,122 in October, the lowest since April 1990, when the SUV was rolled out.

The new SUV has won praise for a smooth ride and revamped interior while being criticized for an exterior that resembles the 2005 model. Declining sales of large and mid-size SUVs have contributed to deepening losses at Ford.

Ford shares fell 40 cents to $8.13.