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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  Love my Explorer! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Mandy - April 19 - 10:38 pm

  I purchased my Explorer brand new from the dealership. I was contacted for minimal recalls that did not affect the driving performance. The only problem I ever had was a problem with my back window not wanting to roll up or down. It was out of warranty so I had to pay to fix it. During the warranty period I even had my stearing wheel changed because it started to show some worn spots. I think some of the people who complain about cars dont know how to take care of them. If you change your oil and fluids regulary you shouldnt have many problems.

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  Almost 300,000 and Still Going - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By philzleads - April 11 - 10:46 pm

  Bought the vehicle new in 1996. Mileage is now at 291,942. Just had the transmission rebuilt. The vehicle miles are mostly hiway miles. I have had the alternator replaced as well as the transfer case. Original exhaust, which needs some work as the bolt-on joints are rusted. Compressor for AC is not working, but I only use the vehicle for truck like duties, I dont mind. Use it mostly in winter/Fall for hunting trips. The temp gauge on the dash no longer works so either full heat or no heat. I have had to replace the bulbs in the dash behind the intrument panel numerous times. The engine, incredibly does not use oil as I have maintained it diligently. 6th set of tires.

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  New V8 Limited - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By RJ - April 11 - 3:56 am

  I have owned this SUV for 2 weeks. It has been in the shop for 5 days. Problem #1 leaking front differential seal. Problem #2 transmission shifts poorly. In the shop now. Even with these problems that will be fixed under warranty I like this truck. I traded a 03 Sport Trac that had no problems in 30000 miles. This truck has all the luxury one could hope for. It is very nice to drive. The dealer has been really nice and fast to work on the SUV issues.

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  Check it out...youll dig it - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By dex2112 - April 8 - 9:32 pm

  I bought this Explorer almost a year ago and have zero problems. I am very happy with it thus far. The 4WD plows throw snow and mud. The traction control is also great in icey conditions. I love the safety features for the family. Everyone who rides along is confortable and satisfied to the fullest. First times usually cant find the exit handle, but I think its kinda funny. The V8 has plenty of power, but hay I could always use a little more. My one compaint is the amount of interior plastic. Come on, cant we spring for something a little more solid.

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  Good all the way around - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By irongod - April 8 - 2:22 pm

  Bought this used with about 90k on it now its around 102k. Its red with tan interior. I have done a complete service on it as well as installed a k&n air filter. Will be installing a large stereo set-up. Explorers are great for that!

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  Explorer XLS - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By kristine - April 8 - 2:00 am

  I got this car on Sept. 2002. My parents bought it for me as a gift for my 16th birthday. My birthday is in February but we got it earlier for me to get used to it. We traded in my dads 2001 Mustang GT for it due to insurance prices. When we got it we were all shocked. It drove beautifully. The suspension was wonderful. No complaints at all.

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  Good Vehicle - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Lori B. - April 7 - 11:00 pm

  Minor problems, fixed under warranty, rear axle seals needed replacing, shocks needed to be replaced after only 1 year, aside from those issues, its a really great vehicle. Tried to trade it in for a new one. Market Value is incredibly low, couldnt trade it in. I guess Ill have to keep it. Sorry FORD, no new sale here.

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  The SUV that has it all. - 2008 Ford Explorer
  By Brad - April 7 - 8:08 pm

  This is my fourth Explorer and they just keep getting better! The features, versatility and the price cant be beat. The V-6 fuel ecomomy isnt great but, I get the same MPG that I got with my Acura MDX and I dont have to run premium fuel. The Sirius radio and Sync system are great. Towing two SEA- Doos GTXs takes a little effort, but the vehicles handles and stops well. The third row seats are great for kids under twelve and I love the power up and down feature. The second row seats recline but they do take a little effort to move up and out so people can get into the third row.

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  Lovin my new car/truck - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By brandi2596 - April 7 - 1:01 pm

  We just purchased our 07 Explorer and we love it. I have done about 1 years worth of research and had narrowed it down to either the Honda Odyssey or the Explorer. We choose the Explorer because we are still very young and wasnt ready to go to the mini-van yet. This Explorer so far has been great, drives smoothly, no sounds, very stylish and lots of extra room which is very important to us with having 2 small children. If you are looking for a new ride with plenty of room for your family, and cargo storage this one is it. Gas mileage is also pretty good, we get around 22 mpg which isn t bad considering that it is an SUV, although there is always room for improvement.

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  If quality is not an issue then buy one - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Jack - April 6 - 2:43 pm

  Today is a great day as I finally unloaded my Explorer for a new Lexus. I really liked the look of the Explorer however the parts quality is very suspect. Even though mine only had 50,000 miles the drivetrain acted as if it had 150,000 miles. How Ford could build a vehicle with such poor quality interior parts is beyond me. I guess thats why Toyota is eating their lunch.