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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  Prepare to spend on repairs - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Kevin - November 15 - 3:07 pm

  Nothing but a money pit to keep rolling down the road. Purcahsed it with 19000 miles and have spent way too much to keep it running. Most problems are major expenses. Major drive train problems $$$$.

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  Very Satisfied....but - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By betaman - November 15 - 2:00 am

  The EB feels very comfortable...well built vehicle. The acceleration is surprisingly strong for a V6. The stereo/air control on the steering wheel is a plus. My only two complaints are the electronic driver seat...there is a little play in the chair. Its noticiable when you stop and accelerate. Also, there is a whine noise in the rear when the vehicles speed is at 55-60mph.

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  Better but not perfect - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By cwhitford - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Had a 98 XLT V6 and traded for the 02. Much improved ride and handling. Better stock stereo than 98, but an upgrade should have been offered like in the 04s. Transmission filter assembly had to be repaired. still shifts hard at times, bad smell from cat converter after engine pushed hard. dealer says it is normal. Overall happy with truck.

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  Next best to a GL 450 merc - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By john pearson - November 13 - 8:32 am

  We have driven #xplorers for 10 years and 5 models. The combination of a frame for trailering, the independent suspension, roomy, quick V8, three row seating fit the niche. Smallest SUV that can accompish the tasks of a bigger SUV. The mileage is 15/20. The handling/ride has improved. We did crack the stability control cog on the axle by hitting a curb. Seemed strange since the wheel was fine but the axle cog broke. Had the tranny fixed. Same issue as everyone else but a quick resolution. The engine was reflashed for better response (nice improvement) and the belt assembly replaced to fix a high rpm shift squeek. Overall if you want a refined and real SUV that is not too big this is it

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  Our 4rd Explorer, but Qual. falls short - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By caplanm - November 12 - 2:00 am

  This is our 4th Explorer. From an engineering point of view, it is the best. From a quality and reliability point of view, it is the worst, and quite possibly, the worst new vehicle which has ever sat in our driveway. The styling is excellent. The ride, handling, and comfort are stellar.

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  Great SUV - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By Ford07EB - November 11 - 8:38 pm

  Picked up the Explorer in March of 07, so far it has been one of the best SUVs that I have owned. Taking it to Vegas twice getting about 22mpg. Feels and handles great. Acceleration from 0- 40 great no problems at all. I opted for the V-6 engine since I only drive on the highway and dont do any heavy towing. DVD Entertainment system was a must for my 2 year old daughter. Overall I am very happy with my Ford.

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  Okay used suv - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By marcopolozx11 - November 10 - 11:00 am

  I just bought this Explorer for a winter beater, and so far so good. Fuel mileage really stinks though. I do roadside assistance for a living, so I really dislike the poor fuel mileage.

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  People with hobbies - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By mtb guy - November 7 - 1:56 pm

  Ive had my explorer for about a year now and i still hate it. first off im a mountain biker. When i tried to haul a trailer full of weight weenis CrossCountry mountain bikes the Explored bogged down. also there needs to be some fairly substantial mud flaps on this car. Very disapointing V8. No one can figure out where the inner door handles are and the outside look is about as plain as you can get. this car is unbelievably clumsy and lurpish in real 4 wheelin situations i dont trust it.

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  98 2dr sport 5 speed 2WD - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By hawc - November 6 - 1:41 am

  Purchased from a family member two years ago. Ive had to replace ABS speed sensor and both 02 sensors (FYI: if your ABS light is on in your Explorer then its about a 90% chance you just need a very inexpensive speed sensor which can be replaced in under fifteen minutes). The car has otherwise been reliable. Ride quality and handling are decent. Performance is lacking in the OHV 4.0 liter especially from a standing start. Its a lot of heft to get rolling afterall. Once your up to speed, performance is actually quite decent.

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  Big Ol Lemon - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By michigander - November 4 - 10:00 am

  Bought the 02 XLT used and within a month started to experience serious problems. Dealer (Scott McNamara) indicated it went through a detailed inspection. Have replaced both rear wheel bearings, front left wheel bearing. On a long road trip experienced loud noises and two independed dealers found problems with front and rear stabalizer bars, front and rear control arms, serious leak from oil pan and others, car was not drivable. Our cost would have been a total of $3000, over two months. Dealer did not back up this vehicle so we dumped it. Will never buy another Ford product. Quality is not job one with them.