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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  Good at first - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By pudd21 - March 20 - 10:11 am

  I loved my Explorer! I had no major problems until I hit 100,000 miles and then it fell apart. Had problems with the rear wiper, driver door locks, transmission, spark plugs, radio light, knocking sound in the engine and all of it happened in about three months. Its now in the shop and hope to trade for a newer model when it gets fixed.

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  XLS 15month 33k mile update - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By tomx15 - March 20 - 2:00 am

  Own a XLS V-6 w/Auto for 15months with almost 34k miles. Front seats not comfortable. Interior/exterior great design. Mileage is 17MPG none better w/70% hwy miles. Warranty service: replaced anti-lock brake sensor; crack in half tailgate under Ford logo - Whole rear window of tailgate is going to be replaced! Hope this thing lasts..

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  Made a great decision! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Walter - March 19 - 3:38 pm

  I love this vehicle. The reliability is great! I get 19 mpg overall and consider that decent for the type of vehicle I am driving. I tow a boat with no problem at all. The ride is complementary and the overall service this vehicle provides makes it a pleasure to own. I did have a transmission recall but that was taken care of immediately and the service dept was quite respectful. The ride is comfortable, the vehicle is easy to drive and control in inclement weather and (With Caution) I feel very safe on the road. I made a great purchasing decision and plan to keep this SUV for some time to come. I would not hesitate to buy another in the future.

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  Great Truck - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By JD - March 13 - 5:13 pm

  Great SUV so far - 47000 miles and still going, I still have the original tires with more miles to go. No problems since day 1.

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  Nice Ride - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Dan - March 12 - 12:57 pm

  Having already taken a ride in the Toyota 4Runner (small headroom) and the Chevy Trailblazer (engine whine), I decided to hop into an 05 Explorer. And Im glad I did. The driving experience is a remarkable upgrade from the 97 Explorer. Its a very easy vehicle to drive and maintain (cheap insurance compared to 4Runner). Also, Im getting about 19.1 MPG with a 65% highway, 35% city driving experience which is great compared to the Tahoe.

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  Problems - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By William Mitchell - March 10 - 10:00 am

  Since I brought this vechicle, I had to replace the transmission twice (It needs replacing again), I had to replace the struts and brushing twice (It needs replacing again). I only put around 20 somthing thousand miles on it since I had, and it has been the worst vehicle I had ever brought.

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  No problems at 22,000 - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Joseph E - March 10 - 10:00 am

  Traded in an Escape for the Explorer. Escape was too small and went through a transmission in 6 months. Build quality of the Explorer was much better and havent had any problems with it. Very smooth ride. Dont recommend long trips if your stuck in the back seat.

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  LOVING the Explorer Sport - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Ryan - March 8 - 2:41 pm

  We had a 2011 Explorer, and Im very pleased to say that every little thing that annoyed me in the 2011 model has been totally addressed in the 2016. Real buttons for climate controls, remote start works from more than 10 feet away, and automatic climate control works much better, for example. Im a "driver" and I enjoy a vehicle that can handle itself properly and isnt "lazy". The Sport checks all the boxes. Im very pleased with the throttle response, which is typically terrible in an automatic transmission vehicle, but it is very good in the Sport, making the explorer feel very eager. The ecoboost engine really pulls nicely, especially from 40-80+ mph. Steering response is great, and the explorer stays nice and flat in the turns. Good solid road manners over uneven surfaces. The interior is very comfortable. I love the red stitching on the black leather, looks very sporty. Fit and finish is very good. I purposely bought our Explorer without the adaptive cruise control and collision warning system, because I hated those with a passion in the 2011 we owned. Literally HATED them. Ford has nailed it with the 2016 Explorer Sport. I only have one complaint. The drivers footrest is a little cramped. Thats it. That is the ONLY thing I can think of to complain about. Its a really great vehicle.

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  They keep making them Better! - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By Pulleydog - March 5 - 8:47 pm

  07 E.B. Explorer 4x4 V8 is our 5th Explorer/Mountaineer since 1997. Our new Explorer is the best riding and quietest by far. We do get some wind noise on the highway but the interior cabin is very quiet. We opted for the preferred Suede seating. Its soft to the touch and my wife I are happy because neither one of us like leather (it all feels like Vinyl to us.) The ride is very comfortable. Access to controls are good. We dont know if the climate control has a problem or if theres a design issue, but we have to keep the temp at 76 or higher to stay warm. Not thrilled about the huge headrests in the 2nd row - blocks view so we folded them down. V-8 doesnt seem as powerful?

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  Love my Explorer - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By hiyall - March 5 - 5:38 pm

  Bought my Explorer new and have loved it for almost 11 years. It has performed like a champ on LA roads and in mountain and snow conditions. Recently, had to have radiator replaced 3x. It seems the new replacement Ford radiators are no good. They have each still been under warranty but the last one was only one day from being out of warranty. Sadly, I now plan to replace my Explorer because I dont want to chance having to replace the radiator again on my dime. This truck has really hauled everything for me and rides especially well when the back is loaded. If you are thinking of a 96 Explorer I say go for it. Mine still performs well & looks great inside and out.