Early next year, one of the safest vehicles will hit the market in the form of a 2013 Ford Explorer. Now, we know what you are probably thinking, with features such as MyKey and a blind spot alert system, the current Ford Explorer seems safe already. While this is certainly true, any parent will tell you that when it comes to protection, "good" just isn't good enough. That is why Ford has equipped the next Explorer model with safety features that go above and beyond what we've seen so far.

First up is an entirely new system called "Lane-Keeping Driver Alert" which lets drivers know when they've drifted out of their lane or crept to close to the edge of the road. When danger is detected, an audio signal sounds in tandem with steering wheel vibrations. For those who are really falling asleep at the wheel, a coffee icon appears on the dash and two alarms go off if the correct measures to rectify the vehicle's position are not taken.

Though not entirely new, the MyKey safety control system will get significant updates guaranteed to make moms and dads smile. Here are just some of MyKey's new features:

-          Speed chime alert set at 45, 55 or 65 miles per hour
-          "No Belts, No Tunes" - mutes audio volume until vehicle occupants buckle up
-          Early low-fuel warning beginning at 75 miles to empty
-          Ability to block satellite stations with mature content

Interested in learning more about Ford Explorer safety features? We at Jerry's Ford would love to answer any questions you may have. Feel free to contact us online or visit us in person at 847 East Market Street Leesbug, VA 20176. And while you're there, don't forget to check out our complete new Ford lineup!