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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  Dont buy. - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By George Georgie - July 14 - 6:32 pm

  Do not recommend, not a big bang for your bucks, Go with twin turbo charge platinum.

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  New Ford Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Ronald Cash - July 10 - 10:00 am

  I owned an Expedition, than a sport trac, now a new Ford Explorer. They all were awesome with no problems, except for the brakes wearing out quickly on the sport trac and the poor quality leather. I absolutely love the quality leather interior, the spaceousness and the smooth ride of the new Explorer. If you do not have a huge family. The Explorer with third row seating is just as nice as the Expedition.

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  Poorly Designed AC - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By LA - July 2 - 3:30 pm

  I must start by saying I live in South Louisiana. Auto AC is critical for comfort. AC is a must about 340 days out of the year down here. Bought it used w/ 16K miles have about 22K. Purchased in the fall so didnt have the sweltering heat to truely test the AC when purchased. Noticed this summer the AC just wasnt cooling the cab off. Feels cold at the vent. Brought to dealer who said the same thing. Unfortunately, nothing can be done since nothing found (all levels in check). Ill be looking for a trade soon. Overall comfortable. Leather interior is nice. Paneling and rest of interior is just OK. Rides very well for SUV

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  Still Going - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By Chazmo - July 2 - 11:47 am

  Other reviewers and friends of mine have "knocked" the Ford Explorer but my Explorer has been very good to me. It is a rugged, well-built vehicle that has proven reliable over the years.

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  Great ride but loses its Spark - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By artwolf - July 1 - 6:18 pm

  I love this vehicle. but seem to have a little gremlin in the rlectrical system. Keep having components that will work for a while, then die, only to start working again later. Cannot trace the problem down. A real pain. Fuel cost is on the high side with only abou 16 mp/g on good days. But its paid for and looks great. 4WD tends to grind a bit and really kills the turn radius. But works like a charm when needed on ice and snow. Center cosnsole is vinyl not leather. Rear bass speaker practically impossible to change. Paint is not holding up to bird droppings. Abysmal acceleration in 6-cyl.

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  100 Anniversary Edition - Fantastic - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By drkgclark - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I bought this as a company car with the intent of selling it after the first year, but I have enjoyed it so much I plan on keeping it.

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  2000 Explorer Review - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By davidmay - June 26 - 10:00 am

  Very Satisfied with the Explorer. Very functional and an enjoyable drive. I drive 88 miles round trip to work daily, plus several road trips. All on- road. Very please with the reliability after the tire recall. Minor problems: AM Radio reception, antenna cable came loose. Radio display comes and goes. Understand that it is a common problem. $300 repair by Ford, But have found 3rd party mail in repair for $75.00. Will do that when the display fails altogether. Rear wiper will not work at times. Have not had that looked at yet. Currently have 65,000 miles and plan on keeping it.

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  Great American SUV! - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By CT Review - June 26 - 10:00 am

  We love our Eddie Bauer Explorer! The styling of the body and interior is excellent. The interior is extremely comfortable and spacious. Our previous vehical was a Jeep Grand Cherokee which we decided to trade in when the rear end went after only 60,000 miles as well as other problems. The duel climate control is a blessing and the 6 disc indash CD/stereo has tremendous sound. The controls on the steering wheel are an added bonus and simplify things while driving. Gas milage could be better (average 14 back roads and 19 highway) but what do you expect with a V8. Fords done a good job with the redesigned 2002 Explorer.

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  Great SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Geoff - June 25 - 1:53 pm

  I bought this car new in 2003 and it has been great so far. We have 47k miles and have put only $416 into it for regular service. It is due for a transmission service, fuel filter and tires so well probably spend another $600 pretty soon. Here are the quirks: The standard equipment tires create a lot of road noise. The rear hatch rattled but was fixed under warranty. From P to R the transmission has a catch and does not glide smoothly. The fuel gauge sometimes takes several hours to register a full tank after refueling. Gas mileage is average. Overall we are very happy with this SUV. Previously had a Cherokee that we put over $3k into by this mileage. I truly believe Ford makes a quality product.

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  Best yet, but.... - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By stan - June 24 - 6:48 pm

  This is my 3rd Eddie Bauer Explorer. I needed to special order to get a 5-passenger V-8 with the leather/suede interior. It was worth the wait. As the vehicle is routinely loaded with 400 - 900 pounds of cargo, the V-8 was a must. This Explorer has a base weight 500 lbs. more than the 98 V-6 it replaced and the V-8 is needed for decent performance when loaded. Around town mileage is about 13 with vehicle not yet broken in. This is about the same as my past V-6. The added size vs. the past model makes it the max. that will fit in our garage, and one mirror must be folded to do so. Good build quality and, overall, still the best of mid-size SUVs but see below for design-related concerns.