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 2016 Explorer XLT - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By John D. - January 7 - 2:26 pm

  Very comfortable, refined, and looks great. Only have 1000 miles on it so far, but it is performing excellently.

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  Ford Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Alex Esconde - January 6 - 10:00 am

  This is a great vehicle. It is surprisingly smooth for a SUV. I have had it for two months, and dont really have any major complaints except for the interior materails (the leather and plastic seem prety cheap). I would definately recommend buying this SUV.

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  Love it - usual problems - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Chuck - January 5 - 8:37 am

  My EB has 130,000 on it now. Have had typical problems that would be found on any vehicle regardless of the make. Brakes, shocks, squeaks and rattles, etc. All of these things I consider normal for an older vehicle. Ball joints are a problem and very expensive because theyre part of the entire upper control arm assembly. Replacement is fairly easy for a backyard mechanic, but $200 labor for each side from a dealer wouldnt be out of the question. Gas mileage is better than my best friends V6 EB. I average 22 hwy and 17 city. Keep the vehicle well cared for and it will treat you well. Overall, Im very satisfied and would gladly buy another.

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  Ford Girl - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By SpeedDemon - January 3 - 3:13 pm

  LOVE my Explorer. Tons of spunk, can leave almost any other vehicle sit at a stoplight with my 4.6 v8. Previous cars were a Crown Vic, Mark VIII and a 95 Cougar all with the 4.6 v8, but only a 4 speed tranny. The 5 speed tranny on the Explorer utilizes the power of the 4.6 much more efficiently between 40 & 80 mph. Dont drive much - got this for hauling my birds and cats. The flat fold of the back seat makes hauling all the pet carriers much easier.

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  solid suv - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By dannylv - January 3 - 10:00 am

  after about a year of researching used mid-sized suv trucks i decided on the explorer and i couldnt be happier. it has everything we need, having a newborn and a 6 year old, with the optional 3rd row seat and 2nd and 3rd row air. the 210 hp engine provides plenty of power and doesnt lag even with the a/c pumping full blast out here in the desert heat.

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  GreatCar - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By Fordfan - January 1 - 11:14 pm

  One of the best vehicles Ive ever owned. Very reliable, only two failures in 95,000 miles the radio display and a $100 EGR part.

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  Slick, quick, and legit - 2017 Ford Explorer
  By mminitti - January 1 - 10:01 pm

  This SUV has it all. A punchy V6 that acts quickly and behaves as billed. It is fast and responsive! The torque is great. Its MPG is a bit underwhelming, but what it lacks in efficiency, it makes up in performance and agility. Ive never been disappointed in the engines performance when I have needed it. The ride is amazing as well. There is virtually no cabin noise, even at speed in excess of 70 mph on the highway. Parking this beast is a bit tedious. It does feel larger than it actually is, but the external sensors and radar gadgets make parking and maneuvering easy over time. The comfort and luxury of the cabin rivals that of much higher end SUVs. This cabin has it all; heating, cooling, massage, dual zone, memory seating, etc... The ride and driving experience is great. One big downer.. SYNC 3. It still misses on seamless integration and reliable operation. It seems clunky and at times, unresponsive. It also seems to affect the quick response of the vehicles radar sensors. Its not horrible, but it is an annoyance. All in all, this SUV is insane! Our family cannot be more happy with it.

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  Very nice, but twitchy - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Wes - December 31 - 2:38 pm

  We purchased the Explorer in 2004, with only 62,000 miles. It was joy a drive, and very comfortable, but I wondered why so low mileage. Did not take long to figure it out. Its almost possessed in terms of twitchy issues. When its hot outside (which is 6 months a year in Vegas) the car will sometimes just not start, then wait 5 to 10 minutes and it will. The mechanic was baffled, but after researching it online, discovered its a vapor lock in the fuel pump or pressure sensor. $800 to replace it according to the dealer. In the winter the excluder seals whistle. According to Ford it is a noise not a defect, but would cost $1500 to make it go away. but when its not acting up its a blast to drive.

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  I cant believe it!!! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Explorer II - December 31 - 10:00 am

  You could have knocked me over with a feather if you would have told me Id be buying another explorer. I just had a 93 for 9 years and was ready for another vehicle. I was origninally thinking of a BMW X5 but the price was way out their, especially in this economy. I took the 02 explorer for a test drive and "thats all she wrote", I was sold. Rides like a luxury car and feels the same. Would not even know you were in an SUV. Ill know more in the upcoming New England winter but I would think this babys gonna perform as advertised, magnificently. So far, so good and am quite satisfied.

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  product manager - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By iwurn - December 31 - 10:00 am

  great truck, fun to drive, good visibilty, good power , good handling