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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  No major problems either - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Happy too - October 17 - 1:43 am

  I have to agree that many people that do not have problems do not post, however I am shocked to see all the negative ratings. I have had my Explorer for 3 years now and it has been in the shop twice for a very minor cosmetic issue, nothing engine related. Ford didnt charge me a dime either time and they were both past warranty. I have 92,000 miles on my Explorer (I drive a lot of miles as you see) and I have been nothing but happy with it. The only reason I am on this site is to look at cars for better gas mileage. I have no intention of getting rid of my Explorer.

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  A poor effort in this class, avoid.... - 2017 Ford Explorer
  By Rob S - October 13 - 8:33 pm

  I leased this car based on a significant discount Ford offered to move from another brand. I cannot wait for the lease to expire as the car finds new ways to disappoint on a regular basis. After 13,500 miles of driving I have dealt with the quirks of a SUV that really isnt. Today, I went to rent a carpet cleaner I have rented in the past and was able to put in the back of my previous mid-sized SUV. Would not fit in this one, the 3rd seat takes up a lot of floor space. So, I called U-Haul. They dont rent to people with a Ford Explorer. The Eco-boost/trailer package isnt all that useful since I cannot rent or use a trailer now from a rental. The transmission has a mind of its own. It slips in to S1 from time to time on its own, which acts like a brake so I am used to this quirk as it has happened 4 or 5 times when accelerating from a traffic light or stop sign. I average around 21.7 MPG so I dont drive this hard at all. The electronics have now reset itself 4 times... so everything says its resetting itself, all the settings are lost then about an hour later everything comes back online. The car also has a really unique feature I have experienced 3 times now. Making a turn in to a busy road, the Eco-boost will bog down, so after the turn has been completed and I need the vehicle to accelerate up to the speed of traffic, the car just kind of sputters and from what I have read this is an issue of the Eco-Boost having moisture or something. Regardless, I dont trust this thing and often wait out traffic knowing that if I turn it may bog down and result in an accident or worse. As to the vehicle... the premium seats really are not that great, I am over 62" and these are decent seats for someone who is maybe 55". The fancy massage seating loses its usefulness when I would really have another 2 -3 inches of seat length... so Ford must have a bunch of short people designing their seats as this seems to be a common compliant. The car should have an 8 or 9 speed instead of a 6 speed. The previous SUV had one that came out in 2013 and yet Ford still lags behind. Trying to find the heat/blower settings can take up to 2-5 minutes as I dont like to take my eyes off the road to figure something out that we all took for granted in cars before all this technology. Yes, the car looks a bit like the Land Rover however its just not a very good offering and Ford should be embarrassed for putting this product out. I am counting down the months until my lease is up and I am already looking at the MDX and offerings from GM. One final note, Ford must know its a loser as I have been contact ZERO times about my owner experience. The dealership have been great people and I wish they sold another brand as this is the last Ford. I have a family member that drives a new Lincoln every two years and I have already told them no more Ford. The car is a mediocre effort for a mid $40K vehicle... unfortunately it stickers at $55K and its way out of its class for that amount.

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  I Love my Ford! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Sandra - October 13 - 4:53 pm

  I bought my 2004 Explorer Eddie Bauer early this year. I had one problem with it and that was that the solenoid needed replacement which was covered by my warranty. I also had a problem with the rear windows where the electric motor broke and needed replaced. Other than that, I am very happy with my Ford. I would definitely buy another one in the future. My husband also has a Ford (F150) and it runs great. Very minimal complaints!

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  super - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Al Gordon - October 2 - 8:28 am

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  Disappointment! - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By ebyers - October 1 - 1:18 am

  Ford has made 5 attempts at fixing my rear end and 3 attempts at fixing my transmission. This problem has existed for years in many models. Why cant Ford be honest and either fix the problem & stop making substandard vehicles.

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  Explorer has been reliable & very useful - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By Jerry Gossett - September 26 - 3:09 pm

  Owned since new. Has been a very good & reliable vehicle. No major repairs needed other than to replace rear window motor & regulator in 2004 costing $340. Paint still looks excellent. No rattles. V-6 engine runs well & gets very good mileage for SUV. Local 14.5-17 mpg & on road 18-24 mpg. With street-type tires Explorer is quiet & rides good - combination off-road/ street tires are noisy & rough. Wheel alignment stays well. Nothing falling apart in interior. Steering is starting to whine a little at 55,400. Very handy for hauling furniture, boxes, etc. No major complaints!

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  Wow Ford - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By newfordguy - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I looked at everything in the mid-sized range and came to a quick conclusion that Ford did it right with this SUV. It was close between this and the 4- Runner and I opted to save the 10K. Lots of space, great handling, good quality to driver controls, and a nice interior. This truck rides great and has plenty of power with the V6. Hopefully the reliability is good, Ive been driving imports for the last 5 years and they werent perfect either. Good job Ford- Drive it. Its durable, not wimpy like those crosssovers.

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  Great for vacation - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Tom Gumkowski - September 26 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I have taken three trips with vehicle and think that it is perfect.It has ample room in back for our 12volt Fridg.and the dog.Seats are comfortable we like to drive.

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  Great Value - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By WMKL - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Weve had our 2002 Explorer 4x4 with the 4.6l V8 for a bit over two years and almost 40,000 miles. It has wonderful steering, is very stable under all conditions, is totally reliable, and very quiet. The truck is easy to drive with a very small turning circle. Two years on I still love this car.

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  mfgz - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By MaryFranes Zayas - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Vehicle handles well and is very comfortable. Mirrors are rounded at the bottom and gives a blind area when backing up