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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  handling gets better each year - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By mestra - September 8 - 10:00 am

  Ive had a Toyota 4runner, 2001 explorer,2002 explorer and now a 2004 explorer and each year the handling gets better and better. The Explorer feels more stable and secure with every years new model.

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  My Dream Car - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Miranda White - September 6 - 2:27 pm

  This was the vehicle I always wanted, and I got exactly what I had hoped for. It gets great gas mileage off the 4.0L V6 and is comfortable and safe to drive. I have the DVD system and my kids love it. My husband even enjoys driving it. I get a lot of comments on the color which is Fords new Stone Metallic. I would recommend anyone with a family to buy a Ford Explorer.

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  OK, but not going to buy FORD again - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By BK - September 6 - 10:45 am

  Bought used at 58K miles. Taken it to 110K. For when we bought it, it was a good car, in terms of ride and features. The rides always felt a little vague and tippy, but that comes with the class. Great in snow. Had to deal w/the tire recall, multiple front end failures (ball joints X2, tie rods etc.) and now cruise control switch fire hazard. Ive put in $5600 in repairs over 8 years (not including oil). $700 per year avg. We drive low mileage, around town, and follow maintenance schedules.

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  An Owners Opinion - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By William Carns - September 6 - 2:00 am

  I am 63, 250 lbs., for me the seating is comfortable but snug. The headroom is there, thats #1. I pull an 18 ft. runabout boat with ease. We load up for our trips to Mexico and the roof rack is a must. The car drives well and my fuel milage is 17.5 in town, 21 on the road, 6 cyl SOHC. This SUV fits well in the garage and is easy to park. If I wanted more out of this vehicle, I would have bought an Expidition. Im happy.

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  Best SUV for $$$ - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Splurph - August 31 - 2:00 am

  Im coming off of a 2dr Sport and was close to buying another one but Im glad that I went with the 4dr instead. The ride in the new explorer is unbelievable compared to its predecessors due to the independent rear suspension. They also added larger brakes, this was a much needed improvement. The interior is kind of chinsey, especially the cloth seats...I think they used "Plether". The exterior is sharp. The radio is decent also. Bad weather handling is very good with the addition of the Michelin tires. Overall, I would seriously consider this car if you are looking for a roomy, sure footed, SUV.

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  The perfect SUV for my needs - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By danmalibuski - August 31 - 2:00 am

  The only requirements I had when buying this truck was the V-8 and trailer towing package. I specifically did not want the 3rd row seats as it took a samll amount of cargo space and added to the weight of the vehicle. Towing well over 4000# with this vechicle is effortless (I sometimes forget Im towing). Its ride and handling are superb (ride especially). In mixed/city driving I get around 16 mpg (4.6L V8). Overall I could not be happier with the truck.

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  FAULTY THROTTLE BODY!! BE CAREFULL!!! 8400 miles - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Adam from NH - August 30 - 7:14 am

  I NEED to post a review with the rest of the people that have experienced this issue and Hopefully Ford will finally do a recall!! The same issue happened to me this weekend when my family and I (5 people) took a 4hr drive from New Hampshire to New York City. About 2.5hrs into the trip all of a sudden my 2016 Ford Explorer with 8400 miles started sputtering and running rough and I when I pressed on the gas nothing happened and the wrench light, check engine light and air bag light all came on. I had to drift over the breakdown lane on the highway! Luckily it happened where it did, there was a big enough breakdown lane, there are big stretches of the highway that only have jersey barriers and NO breakdown lane. If that was the case a major accident could have happened! So here we are stuck on the side of the highway (Saturday) with basically a brand new SUV, calling AAA and finding a ford dealer that is open. Called about 6 of them and finally found one that was opened past 12:00 noon. Luckily they told me to tow it to them (45mins away) and they will bring it right in because they knew exactly what the issue was since there fixing a lot of them. They said if they cant fix it right then we were pretty much screwed because all the rental car places close at noon. So basically we would have to rent a hotel room and wait till Monday! After waiting on the side of the highway for for AAA to tow the truck, we also needed had a cab pick up my wife, daughter and boyfriend because the AAA truck can only carry 2 people. The cab came first and got them after an hour and my son and I waited the additional 2hrs for AAA, (3hrs waiting). While I was waiting I looked online to see what the issue is and read everybodys review on the same experience happening to them and still NO recall. The dealer ship was able to replace the part (in 15 mins) and get us on our way. This was at 5pm when we should have been in NY by 12:30 so the whole day was ruined. How do I know this wont happen again? The same part was installed not the recall part! The 4hr drive back to New Hampshire was the most stressful i think i have ever been not knowing if my truck will just shut down with no notice on the highway with my family. This experience could have killed us or someone else. Please tell every 2016 Ford Explorer owner you run in to..

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  Wonderfully Designed, Fair reliability - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Neill - August 27 - 11:40 am

  I truly enjoy this vehicle. It gets me to my critical job when the city is on snow emergency, with ease. The Auto 4x4 is great, as is the layout of the entire car. Rear heating is also an added plus. As far as comfort and design, this car is a winner. When it comes to reliability however, this car has issues. My tranny had to be rebuilt at 98k miles, suspension system is falling apart despite replacing shocks at 112k, also numerous little rattles/alarming noises from the engine have had to be administered to. Overall, I enjoy the car.

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  98 XLT 130k - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By moviper - August 26 - 11:26 pm

  This is our third Explorer. I just love them. This one has 130,000 miles on it but it run and looks great. I wish I had gotten the V8 this time but only because I tow a trailer. I have put a air bag module on it and a Clutch fan. Other than that and some new tires it always goes.

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  Ford Explorer EB - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By NascarFan - August 25 - 10:00 am

  Overall Im pleased with my new Explorer. The only complaint I have it that at 9,500 miles it developed a rattle in the dash board behind and to the right of the radio. I plan on taking it back to the dealer for repar, however, Im afraid that they may make it worse. The truck is sharp looking and I like the ride and handling compared to the 01 Jeep Grand Cherokee I had before this purchase. Now at 11,500 miles Im averaging 17.5 miles per gallon.