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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  Loves this car conditionally - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Jim Ives - September 3 - 2:59 am

  I went to the Explorer Limited after having a MKX. What I like about the Explorer is the light steering, the room with all the seats down, and the third power folding row seating. I have the two seat configuration in the 2nd row to allow for moving them back or forward for more legroom in the third row. I wish the auto fold didnt fold and tilt. I usually only want to fold the second row rather than tilting. What Im not pleased with is the short drivers seat, and the narrowness of the seat. Far more uncomfortable than the MKX. Im not the smallest person, but not overly large either, and they feel like a kids seat rather than an adults seat. I think they are more suited to a lean person. I am also not pleased with the power plugs. They are nicely placed, and I like the 110 plug in the front console. The problem is they arent always on. They shut down not long after shutting down the car. When camping, I need an always on plug to recharge a lithium ion battery I have, which means I have to run the car for 3 hours to recharge it. This was not the case In my MKX. I like the adjusting pedals as my wife has shorter legs than me, I like the 3 seat memory buttons, and the power tilt wheel. I also think the voice recognition has improved. The phone hang up button works much better than my MKX. All in all, I like the car with just the few issues I show above. If they fix those items, I would buy another one.

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  Love My Explorer - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By Ford Fan - September 2 - 9:00 am

  I purchased this car under Fords Certified Used program. It looked brand new when I tested it. Driving it gave me the feeling that this was a solid, well built auto. I purchased the Limited because of all the features and options. Its a great value! In the four years Ive had it Ive only changed reasonable parts: ball joints and brakes. I had to replace the radio but with Fords extended warranty I was covered. This warranty also paid for the ball joints. Otherwise the car runs quiet with the V8 and I take it on all my long trips. Its got everything!

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  This car is the best - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By danhitman - September 2 - 2:00 am

  Once I started driving this baby, I never want to get off of it.

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  2003 Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By rey - September 1 - 8:30 pm

  Overall this SUV is good for picking up kids. The rear AC really helps The dealer warranty is valuable since I bought it the rear AC fan, ignition switch and cruise control have failed. The $800 per year service charge will be worth it.

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  One of the Greatest trucks - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Daveh - August 31 - 10:00 am

  This is one of the greatest trucks Ive owned or driven. All of my friends also agree with me. It drives great, and the interior is second to none. Its no BMW, but it is one of the best built American cars today. Once again, Ford out does GM.

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  Good vehicle - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By fireat60 - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Vehicle is very comfortable and well built

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  It really is the best Explorer - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Pudley - August 28 - 8:10 am

  Having had Explorers in the past I was skeptical about how different the 2006 model could be. The difference is dramatic. This vehicle is solid and quiet. Finally Detroit is not just playing catch up with the European and Japanese car companies. This vehicle is every bit as good and in some cases miles better than the competition.

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  Never again! - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Jeffrey - August 26 - 2:53 pm

  A year ago I traded in a Toyota Camry for a Ford Explorer, a mistake I will not soon forget. Explorer was fine for about 6 months. Since then, Ive had a check engine light, ABS light, and Battery Light come on all the time. Dealership has "fixed" the issue twice. Also, there is a noise and vibration coming from under the drivers seat and the dealer cannot figure it out. The leather Ford used in the XLT model is awful - I have cracks everywhere. Also, my wife has a Buick Rainier V8 suv and she gets better gas mileage than I do in a V6...go figure? I will never buy another Ford product, nor do I recommend them to anyone.

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  My First SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Angela Malo - August 26 - 10:00 am

  We live at the end of a long driveway. Two winters agao, I got stuck in the driveway 2 tmes due to heavy snow. I told my husband that I was not going to get stuck again. AFter having already a 4WD Ranger, we decided to purchase a 2002 Explorer. I have had the explorer for 11 months, and I love it. It was a great purchase...................

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  Ive converted - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By cbh - August 26 - 10:00 am

  I have always driven foreign made vehicles. Id researched and test drove new vehicles the likes of the Toyota Highlander, Honda Odessy, and Nissan Xterra. For the heck of it, my wife and I went to test drive the new Ford Explorers (I liked the new body style). We were sold. We traded in our 98 Honda CR-V for the bigger Explorer. The 4.0 liter V6 pulls hard at the low end and the ride is awesome thanks to the independent rear suspension. We simply wanted a larger vehicle and it has been overly impressive. I am very pleased with the overall quality.