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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  Lemon - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By JD - November 10 - 11:46 pm

  Purchased the car with 53,000 miles from a dealer. Within a month the transfer case was leaking which was replaced by the dealer. At 78,000 had to replace the heads due to coolant disappearing. At 82,000 unable to control the temperature, full blast heat. To fix this problem the dashboard must be taken out to get to the heater box to replace the damaged part at a cost of $1,100. The mechanic stated that this is a common problem with Ford Explorers. Terrible gas mileage in town 14-15 mpg, highway 17-18 mpg. Owned many Fords before, this one has been the worst.

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  Not so bad - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By Cheryl - November 10 - 8:02 am

  Purchased the car three years ago with about 60K miles. I loved the car and am just now hearing "whining" noises ... feel a little slippage from the transmission between 2nd and 3rd gears. Contemplating whether to fix the transmission or trade it in. I do love having an suv, sun roof, etc. Its roomy and I like the looks -- it also handles well in the winter. Until now, Ive loved owning it and had no problems. However, it appears I have a transmission issue at this point and Im not sure whether to replace transmission or not. Overall, Ive enjoyed owning it. It did have relatively high mileage when I purchased it. Exterior and interior remains great.

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  Broken Gas Gauge - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By 4work - November 4 - 5:18 pm

  This car was provided by my employer for work. We have had it in the shop 3 times and going on 4 due to the gas gauge not working. Dealer says Ford knows about the problem and hasnt been able to find a permanent fix and also there are not enough cars with the problem to issue a recall. We were told to try different gas and a fuel additive (said it sometimes works on other ones), problem is employer provides gas via their own gas station which results in us having to pay more for gas, just for the chance that that will correct the problem. Since it is unreliable, I use my own car so I dont get stranded. I would not recommend a Ford product due to them not willing to correct the issue.

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  My Explorer - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Jennifer - November 4 - 3:36 pm

  I was driving a minivan, but since I am a younger mom, I wanted something more "my age". I finally talked my husband into an Explorer. I love it. I have a mineral gray one and got the DVD system installed. My kids LOVE it. They call it Dora the Explorer. I love how it handles and the view from the drivers seat.

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  194k and still tickin - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By IBO - October 31 - 11:45 am

  Bought this vehicle from my parents over a year ago. My mom used it for her main vehicle. Bought it with 183k miles on it, but I knew this vehicles history since I was a kid when it was purchased. It now has 194k miles on it and it is running as good as new. Hasnt leaked one drop of any fluid. I routinely get 20-22 mpg with a mix of city/highway driving. Still nice to drive. Body has very little rust. Paint is still great. Wash/polish/wax as often as possible. This vehicle is a testament to what happens if you take care of a car. I expect to take this Explorer to 250k miles. Maybe more. One of the best Fords myself or my family has owned!

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  Solid - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By davequeen - October 31 - 10:00 am

  I have been able to use this SUV in a variety of conditions including ice, deep snow, mud and rocks. True, its a different vehicle than the 2002s, but I have a great time off road and in adverse weather. I dont have many miles on it, but I work it pretty hard. Several times I have jumped out of the car to see what damage I have done and I find that there is not a scratch. Plus it starts and runs better than my 02 Mountaineer.

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  BEST EXPLORER IVE HAD - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By RON G - October 31 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS MY 3RD EXPLORER SINCE 1990, AND ITS THE BEST. THE RIDE, THE QUALITY, THE WHOLE PACKAGE IS SO IMPROVED. BEFORE I BOUGHT MY EXPLORER, I CHECKED OUT THE CHEVY TRAILBLAZER. AFTER THE TEST RIDE AND CHECKING OVER THE VEHICLE, I RAN BACK TO FORD AND ORDERED MY EDDIE BAUER, WITH THE V-8. IM VERY PLEASED THAT I DID. THE TRAILBLAZER WAS SMALLER AND JUST DIDNT HAVE THE QUALITY OF THE EXPLORER. IF YOU ARE AN OWNER OF AN OLDER EXPLORER, TAKE THE TIME AND CHECK THE NEW ONE OUT.

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  I truly plan to keep my Explorer - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By jltacy - October 29 - 1:37 am

  I plan to keep my Explorer until the most expensive thing that can go wrong, goes wrong. I have only had 1 small part replaced since I bought it in 2002. I cannot imagine driving a car again. I am spoiled. It has over 110,000 miles on it and I have had no major repairs, only wear and tear items. Yes it gets 15 - 16 miles per gallon, but when you are not making payments that quite a savings.

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  1995 Explorer - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By tswopejr - October 28 - 3:06 am

  Has the six cylinder in it. Ok on gas mileage, could be better. Never had a major break down. Still running strong at 147,000 miles.

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  Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By dd3958 - October 27 - 10:00 am

  this is the finest suv on the road, bar none, a great comfortable ride