Overview & Reviews

The Ford Explorer is widely regarded as the catalyst that started America's love affair with the SUV back in the early 1990s. Certainly there were SUVs before the Explorer, but they were mostly utilitarian in nature. The Explorer was the first go-to SUV for the Everyman. Throughout its life, the Ford Explorer has delivered versatility, a reasonable amount of comfort, affordability and, perhaps most importantly, more style than a station wagon or minivan. New or used, the justifiably popular Explorer should be part of any serious SUV search.

Current Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a large three-row SUV that can accommodate up to seven passengers. There are four trim levels: base, XLT, Limited and Sport.

Though even the base version comes well-equipped, moving up the list provides luxuries such as leather seating, the Sync voice command system, a rearview camera, keyless ignition/entry and upgraded audio systems. In addition to its potent engine, the Sport trim features a sport-tuned suspension as well as unique interior/exterior trim details. Optional highlights (depending on trim level) include a navigation system, a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control, a heated steering wheel and even an automatic parallel-parking system. Stability control and a multitude of airbags are standard, with blind spot and collision warning systems available on upper trims.

A 3.5-liter 290-horsepower V6 is standard on all but the Sport trim, which comes with a turbocharged version good for 365 hp. Optional on all but the Sport is a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter, 240-hp turbocharged four-cylinder. All engines are hooked up to a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard on all but the Sport, which has all-wheel drive standard. The latter is optional for all other Explorers equipped with the 290-hp V6.

In reviews, we've found the Ford Explorer to be one of the best choices for a family-oriented SUV. It drives well, gets good fuel economy for its class and still retains the versatility that made people like SUVs in the first place. Fitted with most of its optional high-tech features, the Explorer is also one of the most advanced SUVs available, luxury brand or not. The Explorer's most notable downside is that it doesn't provide as much third-row and cargo space as some rival large crossover SUVs, and its MyFord Touch electronics interface can be finicky to use.

Used Ford Explorer Models
The current-generation Explorer bowed for 2011. Among the big changes was a switch from body-on-frame to unibody architecture for more carlike driving dynamics and improved space efficiency. Changes have been minimal since; the turbocharged four-cylinder engine wasn't offered until 2012, while the powerful Sport trim didn't debut until the following year.

The third-generation Explorer ran from 2002-'10. A longer wheelbase and an independent rear suspension allowed room for a fairly accommodating third-row seat while also improving ride and handling performance. A 210-hp V6 was joined by a new 4.6-liter 239-hp V8, and both were matched to a five-speed automatic transmission. Initial trim levels included the XLS, XLT and more upscale Limited and Eddie Bauer.

For 2003, a few new trim levels debuted, including XLS Sport and the NBX (no boundaries experience -- we're not making that up). The latter came with all-terrain tires, special trim and a Yakima roof rack. An off-road package became available as well, complete with a beefed-up suspension and skid plates. The following year, equipment levels were shuffled, stability control was made available on most trims (previously it could only be had on V8 models) and Limited and Eddie Bauer models got a quad bucket seating option. The stability control system was upgraded with roll stability control for 2005.

For 2006, a substantial update took place that included revised styling inside and out, an improved frame, enhanced safety systems and a more powerful V8. The latter made 292 hp (up from the previous 239 hp) though the 210-hp 4.0-liter V6 continued unchanged. The V8 came paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission. Safety equipment was upgraded, too, as front-seat side airbags and stability control were made standard on all Explorers. More recent Explorers benefited from the arrival of the voice-activated Sync music/phone interface (2008) and a revised navigation system (2009).

In general we liked this Explorer and found value in the excellent ride and handling characteristics, comfortable and roomy cabin and, on V8 models, strong power and high towing capacity. Though later outclassed by newer crossover SUVs in terms of comfort and design, this Explorer is a solid pick, particularly if you plan to use a V8 model for towing.

Model years 1995-2001 represent the second generation Explorer. Though neither as refined nor as powerful as the generation that followed, this group is still a respectable choice for an SUV. For most of this generation's run, three engines were available: a standard 160-hp V6, an optional 210-hp V6 ('97 and later) and a 210-hp 5.0-liter V8. The familiar XL, XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited were the available trims, and there was a two-door Explorer known as the Sport. Editorial reviews of the time noted that the Explorer had a comfortable cabin and decent utility but fared poorly in terms of road handling and off-road ability.

The original Ford Explorer debuted in 1990 as a 1991 model, and it replaced the Bronco II in Ford's lineup. It achieved instant success in a market that it ultimately defined, if not created. Based on the Ford Ranger pickup, the original Explorer had the winning combination of size, style and utility that people wanted in an SUV. It came as the volume-selling four-door or a less popular two-door. Initially, just XLS and XLT trim levels were available. In 1992, an Eddie Bauer edition joined the lineup, and a Limited model followed shortly thereafter. For power, these Explorers had a 155-hp V6. Output went up slightly to 160 hp in 1993; this was also the year Ford made antilock brakes standard equipment.

User Reviews:

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  New design, Better Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Two Ford Owner - May 3 - 10:00 am

  Great to drive, Great comfort, Always turn heads.

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  Happy Owner - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By jaime - May 3 - 10:00 am

  First ever Explorer and Love it. Lots of room, great get up and go, fun and easy to drive. Make sure to check the manufacturing dates - model changed after 1/28/02

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  Another Great Explorer - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Dennis Sivells - May 2 - 5:13 am

  This is the third Explorer I have owned and is the best so far. I got a Limited which is loaded up and it has not disappointed me in any way. Love it!

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  What the ???? - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Brazil08 - April 26 - 10:52 am

  Have had problems with rear differential leaking since the first week we had it. It was used and past the warranty so we paid to have it repaired. It was leaking again in a month and is still leaking. We live overseas so I searched online for a diagram to match up with the Portuguese part terms to make sure I order the right things. I was shocked at the amount of websites I found with people having the same problem. Also had emergency brake removed last month and saw others with same problem. Radio has issues with CDs sticking and transmission feels like its slipping. Have not had hatch crack. Squeeking sound from rear over bumps and in front when steering even though maint. is current.

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  Pretty good truck - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By amo - April 24 - 8:58 pm

  I bought my Explorer with 33,000 miles, now Im approaching my 2nd year of owning and have 98,000 miles on it. Very comfortable for driving 100 miles each way to and from work. My alternator went out at 60,000 miles. Replaced battery. Bought the truck and the A/C wasnt working and had to have it serviced twice, now the A/C finally works. Stereo could be better, I replaced the speakers with inifintis. The brakes need to be replaced again: got them done at 36,000. Annoying clicking noise when moving at a slow speed. Poor gas mileage. Im going to a Honda soon.

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  Nice Style - Poor Quality - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Bill - April 24 - 12:48 pm

  Get the V-8. I get 20 mpg on a trip at 65. Nice looking truck but poor Ford quality - Ive had it 4 mos with 2 major breakdowns. No problems with the transmission. The dealer was great and Im glad I got the extended warranty. The 18 chrome rims look great. Ive previously had Pilots - not as nice looking but far more reliable. I am impressed with the ride and how quiet it is at highway speeds.

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  Solid - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By Hubbell - April 24 - 4:19 am

  Purchased new in 1996 it is my wifes primary vehicle it has been driven across the US twice hauling trailers from 3-5K both times.

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  Great SUV--if a little quirky - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Sammybosox - April 22 - 3:00 pm

  Traded in a 2002 4Runner to get the new Explorer. Never looked back. Great interior space--my dogs love it-- and the Audiophile sound system is better than anything Ive heard from the factory. Ride and handling is great, almost no body lean or roll during cornering and power is outstanding. Got the V8, its worth the extra money and the gas. Interior is a little strange looking; the dash is kind of lumpy and the materials look cheaper than they probably are. But fit and finish seem good, and its super quiet. Would recommend the Explorer to anyone looking for a new SUV--and the dealership has been awesome.

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  Great value for the price - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Jeff - April 22 - 8:56 am

  Im amazed at other reviewers complaining because they bought a used vehicle and it had maintenance problems. If the hood wont stay up, replace the supports for $20. After a decade or so they might have worn out. Overall, other than the radio, this is a well designed vehicle which when properly maintained will last and last. The V6 has almost as much horsepower as the V8, but gets almost the same milage as well, so you might as well get the V8 and its increased towing capability. Mileage will depend on how you drive it, Im getting 20 MPG combined, and I know of one man whos getting 30 MPG (mostly highway).

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  2002 Explorer Review - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By TJ2509 - April 21 - 11:00 pm

  A vast improvement over the previous Explorer in Ride abd engine performance. Visibility is improved, and instruments and accessories are better arranged.