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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  Not bad at all... - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Q - February 11 - 8:49 am

  I have only had my Explorer for 3 months now, but no major problems. It has high mileage, so the things that I will need to replace are expected when an SUV reaches this mileage marker. Roomy, comfortable seats, and it is fun to drive. Ford designed these Explorers to rev high off the line if you give it some gas, and that is what they do. Just wish it got a lil better gas mileage, its only a V6. It would be nice to have more horsepower and acceleration too. Ford has got to do something about that, I mean come on ... Pontiac makes a V6 that kicks out 260hp and still gets good gas mileage.

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  Fun ride, no complaints - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By NavyWife - February 10 - 4:23 am

  Love my explorer. Front seating is very comfortable. Rear is ok. Plenty of room for my husband and I and our 2 dogs for travelling. fun to drive. Very maneuverable. Great turn radius for such a large vehicle.

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  Ford Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Victorianlady - February 7 - 11:53 pm

  A practical but totally fun car to drive.

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  Just Average - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Jeff - February 7 - 5:32 pm

  I bought my Explorer about 6 months ago. Its a decent car for the money, though I do have my gripes about it. The biggest problem I have is that the leather seats have already worn a lot, and the car only has 8K miles on it. I had a 2000 Mountaineer with 80K miles on it and those seats were in better condition than this one already. Also, my mom has an SUV with a V8 and shes getting better gas mileage than me ... Ford could stand to take a few notes there.

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  Do not buy - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By ibo316 - February 6 - 5:30 pm

  I bought this through my friend who works for Ford in Detroit by way of the friends and family plan. I will never buy another Ford ever. The seats are hard, uncomfortable, and flat. Ford goes nuts over everything being electronically controlled like the transmission. The transmission fluid cannot respond as fast as the electronics. There is noticeable gas pedal delay when you slow and try to accelerate and when passing. The original front brake pads cause the rotors to glaze and then the dealer tells you that the rotors are warped. Do not fall for this if you do not ride the brakes like crazy.

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  Nice SUV - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By Al - February 4 - 10:28 pm

  I bought the Explorer new in April 1995. It now has 137K miles and is running really good. Had to replace the transmission at 85K (Ford helped with the cost) and upgraded to the 5 speed. Replaced all ball joints at 90K and lowers again at 134K. Other than that, followed maintenance schedule and oil changes every 3K miles. The engine still runs smooth. Its amazing after 11 years of driving how tight this vehicle still is. No rattles or squeaks, just a nice firm ride. Waxed every year and the paint is literally showroom new. This is a well built quality vehicle. Ive had five guys including myself and all our golf gear in here with no problem. And its great in the snow!

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  Loved the First ONe-bought another - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By explorer - February 1 - 2:00 am

  I had a 1994 Limited and had absolutely no problems with it....from the top of Pikes Peak to Death Valley and towing two horses through the snow....this car did it all. So why switch? Bought another.

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  Klauers Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Kathryn Klauer - February 1 - 2:00 am

  We bought this vehicle in October 2000. It has proven to be a very reliable family vehicle. Great for road trips, hauling large or many items. It has ample leg room for adults in the back seat and is by far the favorite vehicle to ride in or drive in our family. My daughter has said that because of the smooth ride this vehicle has, she does not experience car sickness when riding in the back seat as compared to riding in the back seat of her friends car. This vehicle is a complete dream to own and drive.

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  Explorer, not too shabby! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By packer kp - January 31 - 1:37 pm

  I love the comfort of the XLT, I think they look sharp also. I am not impressed with the city mileage 13.5 to 14 mpg. I have had it in twice for warranty tranny work so that scares me sometimes it takes a second to engage when putting it in gear. Overall I would say I am pleased as long as the tranny holds up.

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  keeps on truckin - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By jaykva - January 29 - 1:43 pm

  Just spent the day looking at newer, used SUVs and this 93 XLT remains with us. At 175K miles moved from DC to New Mexico, loaded down with stuff, dogs and clamshell on roof and got 21 MPG (cruise set on 70). Tranny died a week later, but thats to be expected (hey, it got us here!). $1800 rebuild was worth it. Still leaks no oil at 186K miles. Sure, the gas gauge has never worked, but thats about my only complaint, use the trip meter. Put new tires on it and rides much better. Original A/C compressor still works. Should go 250K for me or someone else, easily. Compared with newer Acura and Trooper SUVs and it wasnt much of an upgrade to spend between $6K-$10K more on a newer, used SUV.