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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  Great solid all around vehicle - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Scott - January 8 - 9:39 pm

  This Explorer is fun to drive. I have not bought American in over 12 years. This vehicle is great!! I highly recommend it. Great value for the money.

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  Good 1st Vehicle - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By Bre - January 7 - 2:42 am

  We bought the car with 80,000 miles already on it. I got it when I was 16. One wreck and one ticket. 3 transmissions and 3 sets of brakes. Minor problems with horn, antenna, etc. Mud tires look pretty good on it.

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  2003 Explorer XLT - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By gespino - January 7 - 2:00 am

  I drove my brothers Explorer this summer and really liked it, I purchased my own 2 weeks ago and am glad I did. The XLT Sport package is a really nice set up. Its 4.0L V6 packs more than enough power, and it drives really well. And its only 4inches longer and 4 inches wider than my Passat (trade).

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  Ford is the best - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By whoran - January 7 - 2:00 am

  I have this SUV for 10 months now and everything is perfect. I have not had any problems with this vehicle at all. It is extremely comfortable and versatile. The v-6 has more than enough power. The 4WD and the ABS/Traction Control are a dream. You wouldnt even know there was any snow on the ground and this past weekend we had 2 feet of it.

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  Squeeky When Its Cold - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By mpf202 - January 7 - 2:00 am

  At temps around 25-35 Degrees there is a noise that I believe to be the panels of the hatchback rubbing against the rear side panels. A little annoying but they stop when it gets the temp rises above 35 or falls below 25.

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  an Oldie but a Goodie - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By Ford guy - January 5 - 9:13 pm

  My Explorer originally had an automatic transmission and drove great. Transmission blew up going up a steep highway hill (my own fault for NOT replacing the black fluid) & a buddy of mine & I wound up getting a manual from a Bronco II at a junkyard and converted it over. Well shes got PLENTY of power now ... the Bronco II transmission is geared lower & the "Exploder" is unstoppable in 4wd Low when going offroad in mud, water, you name it. Awesome truck! It goes anywhere & takes a good beating! I put offroad 31" tires on it, & without a lift she still goes just about every place my buddies go with their lifted Rangers w/ 33s. Plus the 4.0 motor knocks their 2.9s outta the water on the highway. (:-D)

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  Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Sean - January 5 - 7:35 pm

  I absolutely love this vehicle.

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  A Better Explorer - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By Jim Myers - December 30 - 8:48 pm

  After owning 4 Explorers over the years and living with their poor cornering, I was amazed at driving an All-Wheel-Drive version. No more slowing down in a turn cause you felt the "its gonna tip over!" feeling. What a difference! It felt, and still does, like a big sports car. Very safe and secure feeling. Very well built. My ONLY complaint is the fuel economy! Typically 12-14mpg and 11 if all city. I dont lead foot (remember the Shell Answer Man commercials?). Ill never sell this one as in its extended life it will carry big things till the wheels fall off. I still love it.

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  Ford - Fix Or Repair Daily Exploder - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By amy - December 29 - 6:49 pm

  We bought our Eddie Bauer used from a pro hockey player who had it garaged with very little miles for its age. He had all records and it seemed to be a great car. We loved it for about a year and then all the bells and whistles fell off. We are now on our 4th transmission. We have almost paid more to fix the car than if we had bought it new. Will never buy another Ford.

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  good deal - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By mary cabral - December 28 - 11:34 pm

  Have had this car for nine years. Has had very very few repairs on it. I did replace the battery three times and I replaced the tires once. It has 28,000 miles and still looks pretty new and the motor is in excellent condition. I drive this car on long trips and it has never stopped on me for any reason. I did treat it well, with oil changes every 3 to 4 thousand miles. I strongly recommend it. I had ever had a Ford before because I like foreign cars but this Explorer proved me wrong!