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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  Too many problem - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By Chung Ling - December 12 - 10:00 am

  Within two more years and 28,000 miles driving, my Explorer had sent back to repair 4 times, not include change Firestone tires. Radio panel has no display, rear whipper motor failed, paint lifting, thermalstate leak. Bouncing and Noising when I drove high speed at freeway. My wife refused to buy any American made car.

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  Satisfied so far - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By Wags - December 7 - 11:56 pm

  Switched out from a 99 4Runner to lose car payment. Biggest difference is in the ride. Much harsher than the 4Runner, noiser too. Power from the v6 adequate but I live in CO at 5500 ft so this is expected (4Runner wasnt much different). I have always had Ford or Toyota vehicles and been satisfied with both. These trucks are very good for the money. Much more interior room than 4Runner. Gas mileage around 15-16. 4Runner was about 17-19.

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  best vehicle - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By Happy Driver - December 3 - 9:29 pm

  Ive had this vehicle sence 95 new,bought it for the 2 doors and standard transmittion,and 4wd. Ive had no major problems. Now It has 223000 mlies on it and still going. to bad ford did away with the 2 door explorer and the standard transmition. for that reason I hope my 95 holds up for another 5years or more...

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  Nimble & quick - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Doug B - December 3 - 10:00 am

  I "right-sized" from my Expedition with no regrets. Great road manners and adequate towing cability for all my needs. Much friendlier at gas pump as well. Everyones in love with "RED FIRE" metallic color too. XLT is Best bang-for buck on road today.

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  So Far, So Good - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By bh_okedoke - December 2 - 9:00 am

  Just bought the vehicle on 03/06/02. So far, everything is ok... Runs well, and this unit seemed to be put together pretty tightly (manufactured 01/02). One thing to note if you are concerned about safety. The superior crash test ratings are based on models manufactured after 10/29/01 - read the fine print on the Ford site - I asked the dealer about this, and they confirmed there was a change made to some frame components, whatever that means?

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  FIRST FORD SINCE 1965 F100 - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Catherine - November 29 - 11:39 pm

  This is our first new Ford vehicle since 1965! Prior vehicle to this, 1994 Toyota T100 4x4. Prior to Toyota 1989 Chevy 2500 4x4. Chevy sent us to Toyota, problems galore on the Chevy truck, purchased Chevy, Toyota, and Ford new. Son suggested a Ford for replacement of our Toyota, noting past positive experience with Explorers at his job. Purchased under Ford "Friends and Family" program, Explorer was price of 06 Escape (was going to buy Escape, but no 05s left, and no deal on 06s). What a pleasant upgrade from other vehicles owned in the past. V6 4.0 has lots more power than V6 3.0 the T100 had, plus turning circle is much much tighter.

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  Irreplaceable - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By desert rat - November 28 - 2:41 am

  Had my Explorer about 6 years. Outside of a few mechanical problems which may be expected by the time a vehicle reaches 130,000, I have no complaints. I take it to rugged and remote desert areas with confidence, sleep in the back when I camp, haul plywood, lumber, bricks, plants, fertilizer, furniture and occasionally even people in the back and it is big enough and strong enough to handle them all and I can still turn on a dime and 4WD it through narrow places where the big ones cant go. It is a true SUV its utility is excellent. Id buy a new SUV but NOBODY makes a vehicle that puts it all together like my Explorer -- believe me, Ive looked at them all.

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  An Awesome SUV! - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Marcus Auerelius - November 28 - 12:27 am

  My family has had many SUVs, Lexus RX300 (and we now have an Rx330), Toyota 4Runner, Chevy Tahoe, Jeep Grand Cherokee, just to name a few. But I cannot believe just how good the Explorer drives. I wasnt quite sure about buying a Ford, but I was completely blown away when I test drove it. It is so comfortable, the refinement of the engine, transmission, the ride is all wonderful. Ford did a great job on the Explorer and Ii now know why I have seen so many on the road.

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  ...after 9 months of owernship - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Jill P. - November 25 - 10:10 pm

  I purchased my brand new Explorer in April of 2016. Here we are nine months later and despite loving my car I find it to be quite "buggy." First of all, the alignment was off since day one. Finally took it in to get looked at today and its not covered by the warranty because Im over the mileage limit – despite being an issue since purchase. In August, turned on the car and drove away. Within 50 feet I experienced a loss of power. The car stopped and I did all I could to move it to the side of the road instead of stopping directly in the middle. Dealer was great and knew what it was before even looking at it. They had a backlog of 2016 Explorers that needed the Throttle-body replaced. Luckily they had one in stock so I was only without my car for two days. Nothing else major has occurred. But small things, e.g. going in reverse the back-up camera comes on and then stays on for several miles, even when shutting the car off/on or Ive had "Park Aide Fault" messages – in other words the sensors around the car that help me park werent working. Then my Navigation wouldnt connect for about a day. The Sync wouldnt pair with my phone for a couple of hours. Also, it doesnt have enough cup holders or small storage areas. Despite all this, I love driving the car. Its very roomy and comfortable and will hopefully will serve us well when we start our new family. Although, I am nervous about the future and what major repairs may be in store for us.

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  Dont let the looks fool you! - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Gabriel Welch - November 24 - 3:13 am

  I purchased my 2003 Ford Explorer with 170,000 miles from a private seller because I loved the way it looked. I have always driven SUVs. I like feeling high up and safe. The Explorer was a good vehicle to meet those wants. The Explorer was fast and powerful! A great vehicle for any sort of hauling. Its also very roomy and comfortable. Ford really did a great job with the Eddie Bauer. It had so many great features for a 2003. Unfortunately the Explorers reliability or lack thereof was enough to drive me away from it after only a few months of ownership. I didnt expect much from an older SUV with high miles but I certainly did not expect what I got. There were times when I did not want to drive anywhere because I was too afraid to! The Explorer was a smooth and comfortable ride, Ill give it that. But maybe thats because I was comparing it to the frequent tow truck rides. I ended up selling the Explorer with around 183,000 miles because I didnt want to foot the bill for a bad transmission, leaking head gasket, three bad wheel bearings, bad steering and suspension components, and a bad charging system.