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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2006 Ford Explorer, My Best Choice - 2006 Ford Explorer
By Max Bryant - April 5 - 10:50 pmI was really into the 2005 Explorer and was really tempted to buy it because as we all know some car makers can really screw up a great thing, but waiting for the 2006 was the best choice I could make. As soon as I got in the 2006 everything was right there, in easy reach. As i test drove the vehicle, it was so quiet and has a tight turning radius. But the thing that shocked me was when I test drove I punched the gas and it took off with no hesitation and then I slammed the brake from 60 and took my hands off the wheel and... STRAIGHT. I was sold on that and then when I took a corner doing 35, I said "Im taking this home". If you think Im lying, try it. I "GUARANTEE" you will be shocked!
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2003 XLT 4x4 V8 - 2003 Ford Explorer
By jrfan - April 4 - 7:03 pmThis SUV is great. I love the V8s low end torque that rivals the venerable 5.0, but blows it away over 3000 RPM. Gas mileage is tolerable considering the V8, those of you that want 30 MPG should be buying cars anyway. 4 LO is very strong. This is my 5th Ford and I feel like Im driving a luxury vehicle. I test drove a 4Runner, Durango, TrailBlazer, and a Pathfinder - they dont even compare. Between the Toyotas cheesy {luxury} interior and fake V8, Durangos terrible build quality, TrailBlazers look and performance, I was surprised at the Explorer. I am a truck guy and this was my first SUV. Overall it was a great buy.
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Ford Explorer XLT - 2004 Ford Explorer
By Steve Crane - April 4 - 3:14 pmGood Gas mileage for class of vehicle. I love the 3rd row seat, and roomy interior. I have had no mechanical problems with this vehicle.
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Explorer Sport 4x4 - 1998 Ford Explorer
By markandleigh - April 3 - 8:40 amMy wife loved this vehicle for 3 years until she got a Nissan Pathfinder. The Explorers ride is bonejarring and it drifts a lot on the highway. It seems like you are always fighting it instead of having a nice relaxing cruise (yes, the alignment is ok). I have had a few problems out of it, but overall it has been fairly reliable. Did I mention a very poor resale value? We have lost thousands of dollars when compared to other import SUVs.
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Approaching 7,000 miles - 2004 Ford Explorer
By JPD - April 3 - 2:00 amI drive commute over 100 miles a day and the Explorer offeres a stable, comfortable ride in heavy traffic. This is my second Explorer and I hope I can drive this one for 8 years as well.
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A great SUV for a great price - 2004 Ford Explorer
By lawyermommy - April 3 - 2:00 amThis is the most economical of choices in buying an SUV. You get a lot of car without breaking the bank! We got this with 0% financing, and still cant believe our luck! Not only does it get really impressive gas mileage (were averaging about 19 mpg) it has enough room for all of our junk! My SIL has a Durango- and she gets about 9-12 mpg- and doesnt seem to have as much room in the loading area. I love it!
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2004 XLT - 2004 Ford Explorer
By xxxxxxxxxx - April 3 - 2:00 amGreat power with the V6 and nice ride as far as a typical American built SUV. Lots of space...third row seating is a nice feature.
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Ford Forgets About Quality - 1998 Ford Explorer
By SLP - April 2 - 10:00 amA very nice looking vehical with good accerlation. Ok milage on highway but could use some improvment around town. Dealer mechs need better training. (had to tell them how to fix problems, they did not look very hard for known problems) Simple items like wiper pivots and motors, door locks, radio controls, etc. have had to be replaced soon after purchase. All has worked well since! Ford needs to pay more attention at the vehical factory.
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1991 that I cant get rid of - 1991 Ford Explorer
By james martin - April 1 - 8:16 pmI bought my 1991 from a person who took good care of it for 2 years. Before that, a soccer mom thrashed it. I got it with180k miles on it and now has 203K, and it runs as strong as ever. I have had tranny work done, but come on over 200K most 1st generation 4runners have had engine and tranny transplants. Simple mods like a K&N filter, exhaust, and other cheap mods give it close to 175 hp. I can burn tires easily! Great truck!
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Exploder - 1991 Ford Explorer
By JayBird - March 30 - 2:10 amI still have my 91 Explorer along with 2 others just like it.. The vehicle is great! Its large for passengers, road trips, camping out, and off roading. It has 205,000 miles on the body. I rebuilt the engine at 193,000 miles and since I have owned it I have only replaced the mufler, alternator, headgasket, ball joints, and automatic 4x4 hubs. The vehicle handles fairly decent. lots of power for a 4.0L V6. Ride comfort is incredible! Massive amounts of intierior room! Off road it handles pretty good but its not recomended. You will lose $869 in hubs so please anyone who owns one change the hubs to manual locking ones. The whole spindle unit and all cost $256 total one time price!
