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:

• 

  A great SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By M.G. - August 3 - 10:00 am

  I REALLY ENJOY DRIVING THIS SUV I DRIVE ON 95 A LOT AND THATS ALL YOU SEE ITS A VERY COMFORTABLE DRIVE AND ALL THE POWER YOU NEED!

• 

  3 Year Review - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By SWilliams - August 1 - 9:42 pm

  Bought the Eddie Bauer 2-wheel drive V6 back in May of 03. I have been pleased with the truck so far. I only have two minor complaints. One, on occasion it takes the computer around 50 miles on to compute the fuel remaining in the tank. Second, I have had two window motors go out, not a big deal, but pretty annoying. One problem for people with small kids is that it is next to impossible to put a rear facing car seat in the middle position in the back seat. Its actually more convenient in my Saab. My wife gets fiery red every time she puts in the seat in her Eddie Bauer. She has been pleased with the automobile overall, and would recommend it to anyone like I would.

• 

  Very good car - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Mohamed Morsy - August 1 - 12:14 am

  It is definitely one of the best cars I have ever owned. It is very stable on the road and it feels very safe to drive. However, they were some problems such as the rear lift got stuck, the center lock motors problem, the paint peel from the hood. but it is still one of my best cars because of its spectacular mechanical performance.

• 

  Amazing Truck - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By chrisava7 - July 31 - 4:26 pm

  Coming out of a 99 Explorer XLT and going into a 06 Explorer XLT I was worried. I was unhappy with my older one and the ride stunk. The is one amazing truck though I feel like I am driving a car. You can not tell how fast you are going. You can catch yourself doing 80 quickly. The interior has everything right in reach and the material is high end. The door handles are a really big thing when someone gets into it. It took me about a day to get used to it and now I love them. Also, the stick shift on the floor is so much better you have something to rest your hand on!

• 

  Beautiful car, strong, will get you anywhere - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By Nick Bloch - July 30 - 5:19 am

  I did have to replace the transmission, but once I did, the car worked beautifully. Tows well, handles well, 4X4 in the snow works great. Its comfortable and the sound system works amazingly. I love this car.

• 

  Not All That Great - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Jim - July 28 - 3:10 pm

  Underpowered, fuel eating V-6. Not very comfortable to drive, blinker lights go to signal detent too easily when you select them for changing lanes. R\rear window wiper switch hard to locate and turn on. Power seat buttons hard to operate without opening door. You can feel the torque converter or something like it when you slow down from 70 to 55 same with going down a steep hill. Rear hatch leaks when it rains. All in all in my opinion this is not such a great vehicle for the money.

• 

  It does what is can - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By rustygray - July 26 - 11:22 am

  I bought mine used from a dealer. I got a great deal, and the vehicle has been solid, fun to drive, and it starts daily, and with better tires and new shocks, it handles pretty well . But it is an SUV not a sports car, so as with any high centered vehicle, driver responsibility is a must. Mine is a 5 speed, and easy to toss around, slide sideways, and fun in the mud and dirt. Keep the oil changed, rotate tires, and air filter every 3k miles, should be okay.

• 

  Agree with Edmunds Short List - 2017 Ford Explorer
  By TomKM - July 26 - 4:55 am

  of Pros and Cons. I like the car and in general think it should be a 4 star. However, at this level, and with several option packages loaded on top of the XLT model, it can be some of the non-critical factors that adversely affect the rating. The packages included Technology, leather seats, and a few other add ons. It is a great road car for freeway driving. I like the radar that warns of crossing traffic when backing into street. I like the looks, and I have been a fan of Ford Trucks and SUVs for a long time.So heres what I dont like: A bit ponderous and big-feeling for a 9 foot wide single garage door - I felt more at ease entering the garage with my Ford Expedition and Chevy Suburban. The foot-kick sensor to open the tailgate functions eractically, making it pretty annoying if not useless. Plus, when I walk behind the rear when the vehicle is parked in the garage, but at least 12 inches away and in now way kicking or swinging a leg towards or under the bumper, the tailgate periodically beeps its warning and starts to open - if not for the beep it would engage the still-closed garage door, but with the beep I can lean on the rising tailgate and force it to reverse itself and close. The touch screen controls too many functions, less than ideally intuitive: talk about distracted driving when trying to figure out to modify a setting, particularly one not used frequently. So I recommend reviewing/setting all the touch screen controls you are likely to use during a trip moving out of "Park."

• 

  I Love my Explorer - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By John - July 21 - 8:14 pm

  I have had my Explorer for six years and have not one thing go wrong with my truck. No rust, but I always keep it in my garage when not in use. The only thing that I dislike is the harsh ride when not carrying any load in it.

• 

  XLT is for Me - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By FordFan - July 19 - 4:16 pm

  Bought my Explorer brand new in 2001. At exactly the 5 year marker (to the day) I pushed it past 100,000 miles. Love it, Love it, Love it! Ford rebuilt the transmission after 6 months ownership and no issues thereafter. Extremely reliable and great for long drives. V6 saves lots of money over the V8 and has just as much bhp.