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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  Enough with the alarms and sensors! - 2014 Ford Explorer
  By Melanie Broga - January 26 - 6:42 pm

  I bought a 2014 Explorer and liked it ok, but sold it for 2 main reasons that were just too annoying. Reason #1. Enough with the idiot alarms. Im adult, and I know how to drive. If the car is on, and you hop out of your car because you forgot your sunglasses, or youre running into the cleaners, or the atm, and you have the key in your purse or pocket, the car horn gives 2 loud honks in your ear because it obviously wants to remind you not to get on a plane with the key in your purse. Then theres the "vehicle from right, vehicle coming from the left" alarm and the dreadful "youre about to hit somebody" alarm (even though the car in front is turning), and "for your safety please stay alert to road conditions when operating entertainment devices" while my passenger is plugging in her phone to the USB, and lastly, the "tailgate is coming down" alarm. Driving this car with all of its sissy alarms raised my blood pressure and made me feel more tense for no reason. Im also a little annoyed that my husbands late model jeep doesnt have these alarms, so why, Ford, why?? Reason #2: The front console was insanely sensitive. We often had the cord to our iphones touch it and suddenly the heat is on full blast, or it switches sources- from FM to CD. While the car handled well and was well equipped for cargo and towing and power, the everyday driving experience with the reasons listed above made us unload it.

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  Cant stop a Ford - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By Ford Tough - January 26 - 12:11 pm

  I was given my 91 Explorer from a friend. The car had been sitting for 2 years without the doors even being opened, much less started. I opened the door cleaned the battery terminals and cranked the car, it started right up and has ever since. Its amazing after sitting neglected that long it started right up and I detailed it and it came clean and the paint even shines as does the leather. Its an amazing car I got mine for free but Id recommend anyone buy an Explorer!

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  Love my Explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By gails - January 21 - 10:00 am

  One of the deciding factors when choosing this car was the 3rd back seat. Although it does not offer a lot of leg room and requires a bit of climbing to get into, it is perfect for kids. The kids can easily climb in the back and the adults can sit in the rear seat confortably. This vehicle has proven to be very reliable. I have experienced a couple of hiccups thoough, in the past 27 months or so. I had to replace a switch for the passenger side window (it fell in the door), the a/c adaptor plugs arent working but I have not fixed yet, things like this. But nothing major.

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  Delight to drive - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By nopolsky - January 19 - 9:30 pm

  I was especially surprised how well the stability control worked in the snow. We got a ton of snow recently and when I looked out the window I began to regret not getting the 4x4 option. Anyway, out in the snow I went... The explorers RSC option kept the veh going in a straight line without swerving and tight in the corners without the rear going out. I was really pleased, why didnt Ford have this before.

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  Bulletproof, reliable truck - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By AdmiralHappy - January 17 - 7:04 pm

  Just hit 223,000 miles with no major issues. Radiator replaced by shop after being damaged by mechanic, but other than that, all original parts. Regularly serviced. As a valet, Ive had plenty of competition to compare my car to, and have found the 1st generation Explorers to be one of the most agile and reliable vehicles around. Ive parked a couple of Explorers with over 500,000 miles with original engine and transmission, and the owners still ... and mine feels like it could go as long, too! Exterior in good shape, some dings and dents but paint holds up well ... interior in even better shape, looks ten years younger than it is. Gas mileage is lackluster, but hey, no vehicle is perfect.

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  Common yet reliable - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By Lukas - January 16 - 2:42 pm

  My first truck. Big, bulky, gas consuming auto yet I can finally fit all along with my family. Mechanically sound and solid, I love the 5-speed manual transmission with hydraulic clutch - no problems there, good pick up yet sluggish if you do not know how to handle it. Clean and powerful engine. Explorer is extremely popular truck around and I was afraid Ford builds quantity and not quality - I guess I was wrong, absolutely no mechanical problems. The gas prices are the main concern as this truck likes to consume. I get better mileage with manual transmission but fill up costs me a bundle

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  Ford Explorer XLS - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By Jason - January 12 - 9:43 pm

  I have owned my Explorer for a year now and I actually like it. Its a 1999 XLS. I like the style of the XLS because it gives you the sporty look of the sport version in a four door. Although it is under powered on the highway with its OHV 4.0 V-6, it does well off road and with towing situations. Overall it is a good dependable truck but would fare better with the OHC engine or the v-8.

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  Why did I buy this? The Worst - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By msqvc513 - January 11 - 7:11 pm

  First complaint is the two doors and how you have to get out to let people in and out theres no way around it. Kinda stinks when its raining you know? Then you gotta be a bit of a contortionist to get back there and out, and they dont give you much space for this. Crummy little windows in the back make you claustrophobic. Okay and THE GAS MILEAGE is horrendous. That car eats better than I do! The rusty side steps, its just unacceptable and embarrassing. Its stuffy in there, no way around using the air vent and the A/C and heat are always either freezing or baking you alive. The roof rack paint is peeling. What else? The rusty drums that had to be replaced at 50k miles, the way it stalls in the cold.

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  Catch the wind! - 1992 Ford Explorer
  By flowernymph - January 11 - 4:08 am

  I have had great luck with my Explorer but that only really bad thing is, it is a WIND CATCHER! I drive in many areas of high wind and it is always a deal to handle. Otherwise, it is great.

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  1994 Explorer Eddie Bauer 4WD - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By Ryan - January 9 - 2:19 am

  This vehicle has a nice balance between off road functionality and on road drivability. The Interior is comfortable as well as versatile. The 4.0L V-6 is a little underpowered, but highly reliable, and does supply enough torque for moderate towing. The SUV has a good turning radius, and visibility allowing comfortable driving in tight areas and heavy traffic.