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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  Texas Explorer - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Austin - June 1 - 1:12 am

  For the money, you cannot beat this SUV. It is quiet, fast, and safe.

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  Great Vehicle for 20K - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Jim - May 31 - 10:29 am

  There are a lot of reviews bashing some really minor points about this car. But, face it, this is just looking for reasons to complain. For $22K or less you get a solid, safe well built, good looking car. I use mine for towing a bass boat and it is like the boat is not even there. This car puts all other SUVs to shame in terms of value for money. Ok, it does not have a chrome plated steering wheel. Who cares. Go pay an extra $15k and you can have one along with the high priced maintenance. You cant go wrong. I love my Explorer.

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  Ford Explorer XLT 4WD - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By 1997 Ford Explorer - May 29 - 7:35 pm

  I love my 97 Explorer, but it has been giving me problems lately. Bought it from my parents they put 96K miles on in it 7 years. Around 97K, a month or so after I got it, the tensioner went had to spend 4K to replace the engine. The car failed emissions test, had to pay $200 for a new part plus service. Recently the fuses have been blowing. Fuel economy stinks since I replaced the engine- <15 city. Love my car but may replace with more fuel efficient/reliable car once I can afford another. Positives are: great towing, lots of space, comfortable, safe.

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  2005 Ford Explorer - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By St. Louis - May 28 - 2:28 pm

  Traded in my 2001 Ford Escape. The Explorer is just like my Escape on steroids. My local dealer offered $10,000 off sticker which put it at the same price as my Escape four years ago! Seems to be a great vehicle so far.

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  Satisfied Explorer - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By triple_tap - May 28 - 11:58 am

  We bought this vehicle to move across the country with, and in hopes that it would last us without any problems for the 3 years I am in law school. 2 years down, 1 to go and the only thing of any consequence was replacing the brakes! Very satisfied with this vehicle.

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  big and easy - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By bill - May 28 - 10:30 am

  Overall good, and fun to drive.

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  My Explorer - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By BG - May 27 - 11:02 am

  I love my Explorer. I have always owned Ford pickups, and it rides like a luxury truck but with the convenience of the cargo space instead of a bed.

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  Love sport cars but wanted SUV - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By suv convert - May 27 - 3:29 am

  First SUV wanted towing and hauling room otherwise would have gotten another sport car. Handling is excellent, turning radius surprisingly small, seats excellent, love the leather, annoying helicopter sound when sunroof open, needs the step bar for entrance, adjustable petals good choice, digital readout excellent. Im very picky about what I drive and the handling ability. I love this SUV. Only a few negatives. Need more leg room on door side, bad door design, not enough room in cargo area, floor isnt flat with seat down, transmission makes annoying pause when shifting, but getting use to it, good head room, rides well on long trips, feels safe

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  Family of Explorers - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Rebel4x4x4 - May 26 - 1:48 am

  We have owned 3 Explorers and 1 Explorer Sport over the last few years. Have driven the others, have found none to compare to this wonderful machine. Has leg room for my 62" son in the back. This vehicle has the needs to fit a family on the go. Never thought I would own a 4-door until we drove test drove our first. Other brands we test drove have been rattle traps. Or have had head or leg room problems. I think the Explorer is just a great all around vehicle for anyone shopping for a good little machine.

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  Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By CuddlebearFl - May 20 - 10:00 am

  It is a great SUV .....never though I would buy one....Love It