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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  Beware of the Good Looks. - 2013 Ford Explorer
  By mrbobh - March 8 - 1:38 pm

  I rented this car for a week and cant figure out who would buy one. We wanted a vehicle that could comfortably seat 4 people and 2 children in car seats. We could not install the car seats and have access to the rear seat. The middle seat does not slide. Rear seat too small to hold car seats. My 64" son had to crawl in thru the liftgate. My Ford Touch System - Overly Complex. Transmission had a constant wine. Turn signals needed to be pushed 2 clicks up or down to stay on. Large Turning radius made parking a chore. I own a Mazda CX9 - this SUV cant compete with it. Check out and drive the competition before you buy this. Beauty is only skin deep.

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  Homerun with Explorer - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By htown35 - March 6 - 9:53 am

  I brought my 2012 Explorer in December 2011. I have the XLT Model with Leather, 20 in Rims, Power Liftgate and Dual Power Seats. I love my new explorer. Only 2 problems.... Recall for Engine Cooling at 5K and had to replace the brakes under warranty at 7K. I currently have 10K miles on it. I get a lot of compliments on my explorer. I like the ride, styling and comfort. I do not have MyFord Touch so I dont have any of those issues. I think Ford did a good job overall. First new Ford!!

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  Explorer XLT - I love it - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By htown35 - February 26 - 12:08 pm

  I brought my 2012 Explorer XLT with leather interior, 20 in rims and power liftgate in Dec 2011. The only issues I had was replacing the brakes (covered under warr) at 8,000 miles and a recall for engine cooling. Currently I have 10,000 miles. I like driving my Explorer. It gets a lot of attention with its 20 in rims and dark exterior color. I have gotten 25 MPG on the highway and about 18 in the city. It always has enough power and all features work correctly... Its quiet and I feel very safe in it.

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  Do not Buy a Ford Explorer 2003 - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By 1auto4auser - February 18 - 5:19 pm

  Previously owned ford explorer earlier year. Did not have any signifcant issues for the most part. This model major transmission problems. Not built to last more than 100,000 mi. heard clicking noise dealer could not find problem. paint on roof and hood is chipping off. Poor paint job Dealer rebuilt front bearings at 30,000mi Transmission now has to be replaced. Transmission, bearings and transfer case poor quality. Ford should recall this vehicle I wish I had read the reviews on this vehicle

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  Love it! - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By allies - February 14 - 10:36 pm

  This was my first vehicle purchase. Ive never been fond of Fords, but this vehicle definitely changed my opinion. I love how smoothly it handles, its incredibly comfortable and I find the fuel economy to be quite well (averaging 17+ MPG in the city). Im starting to run into some issues at 87,000 miles, all minor and relatively cheap fixes - but my biggest hassle was with the fuel pump. Finding a replacement was extremely difficult. Overall I think its a great little SUV and definitely fits all my requirements for what I need. Its a comfortable, reliable ride, and has lots of hidey-holes where you can keep tool kits, travel bags and other knick-knacks hidden and out of the way.

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  Excieted at first but disappointed now - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By g2a2k - February 12 - 7:25 pm

  The ride is extremely smooth and quiet, especially on highway. The Interior is luxurious with upgraded seats. Well engineered on this aspect. With that said, Ive had nothing but problems with MyFord Touch system and it has gotten worse lately. It continually locks up and freezes the entire system to include climate control, entertainment, and telephone. It soon after goes into a never ending loop of resetting that only works part of the time. I have all but given up on using voice commands as the voice recognition in it is poor at best. Despite getting the updates and having it at the dealer numerous times, the problems continue.

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  Bad....Bad...Bad.,:( - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By ashleypetty93 - February 11 - 5:33 pm

  I had the 2000 Ford Explorer, I was all great when first got it...but after a while anything and every thing could go wrong:/....The space was great but the SUV is a hazard...The o2 sensor was very bad in it and we changed everything we could...but nothing(doom doom doom) The Explorer would die on us when ever it felt like it wanted to...I dont recommed this SUV..Thanks:) But it is a very bad car dont buy...and gas just sucks up on it..

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  The energizer bunny couldnt have done better - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By woodinva - February 8 - 5:26 am

  My daily driver and has NEVER let me down because of conditions. Currently the vehicle has 335k miles and has had 1 tranny replacement at 180k miles by AAMCO it has had ball joints replaced with the kind that have grease fittings.It has had all shocks,bearings replaced an repacked and she keeps MICHELIN LTX-M/S on the vehicle and we change the oil every 5k miles and the tranny fluid every 75 ki miles. We change antifreeze every 3 years and hoses 3vry 6 years. Serpentine belt every 75k miles. rotate tires every 3rd oil change. PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE is the key to getting these vehicles to last a long time.

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  Explorer - 2011 Ford Explorer
  By patrick66 - February 5 - 5:03 pm

  The 2011 Explorer must have the worst electronics of any vehicle in history. I bought mine in April 2011. After a few weeks, the audio system was a mess. The speakers would cut out intermittently. It eventually got to the point that there was almost no sound on the left side. After a spending nearly a year of regular visits to the dealer, Ford finally replaced the wiring on the left side of the vehicle. but now the left side has muffled sound, and there is an occasional humming sound in the speakers on the right side. Now the dealer refuses to deal with the problem, and customer service at Ford says there is nothing they can do. Last Ford for me.

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  Very Pleased - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By whereismyhair - January 31 - 8:26 pm

  I am really happy with my Explorer. I think it is a good looking vehicle, I get 23 mph even when the 4wd is on (I live in the UP of Michigan and use it in the snow), and I like how it drives. The speed control with the auto slow down is great and it helped stop me when a car recently stopped suddenly in front of me on the highway. I have towed with it, filled it with a very large light item and many smaller heavy items and still it drives fine. I traded a F150 for it and dont regret doing it.