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:

• 

  2000 XLS after dealer helped with 99 - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By njdevilsrn - May 7 - 10:00 am

  I got this 2000 XLS after my almost loaded 99 XLT turned out that is almost needed a bright yellow paint coat (hint, hint). To save me a few bucks on an assisted buyback, I got a 2000 XLS rather than XLT. The only things I miss from the XLT are the cushier seats, overhead console, and the power of the SOHC engine (certainly not the problems that come with it). This ride has been pretty OK. Tranny needed to be replaced at 21000 miles, replaced rear wiper motor (who hasnt?). Also with a rattle in the door for 4 months now, dealer cant hear it (go figure?). Definitely buying an ESP as the first 2 years of ownership and the 99 did not inspire confidence.

• 

  totally diggin it - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By quartertone - May 7 - 10:00 am

  This SUV handles great compared with most everything we ever test drove. The seats in the xlt are the way to go. Way more comfortable than XLS. Very happy with performance of the V6 with no reportable problems. Really enjoy all amenities and so many that are standard. Will recommend to anyone who is interested in a vehicle of this type.

• 

  Great car, would definitely buy again - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By JBoge - May 5 - 11:31 pm

  I purchased my Explorer Sport new and currently have 172,500 miles and counting. It has been a great car and virtually maintenance free. After 160,miles, I had to replace the brakes, front shocks and ball joints. Changed the shift motor twice and I have some rust on the rear bumper and running boards. Other than that, it is as good as the day I bought it.

• 

  listen to the consumer!!! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By exploderdriver - May 4 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has had numerous problems similar to those mentioned throuhout these consumer reveiws (transmission, rear-end noise, back glass, etc...) Obviously these are common problems; however, Ford or any of their dealerships will admit to any of them, or try to fix them correctly. A few recalls would solve a lot of problems! By the way...if you live in Knoxville, TN....stay away from Lance Cunningham Ford, and Ted Russell Ford! Their service depts. are the pits!!!

• 

  ARTY - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By ARTY - May 4 - 10:00 am

  HANDLES WELL 14 MPG AROUND TOWN 20 ON HIGHWAY

• 

  my T-bird for a Eddie Bauer - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By LOUISE - May 3 - 2:20 pm

  I had a 2002 T-bird, loved it but wanted something new. I drove one other SUV, then I drove the Eddie Bauer. Loved it from the moment I saw the color, opened the door and it was beautiful; that was all it took. I have had it a week and I love it do not miss the T-bird thought I might. I would recommend this SUV to anyone.

• 

  Watch Out For The SOHC V-6 - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Cibs - April 21 - 8:23 pm

  Bought my Explorer used with 70k miles on it and thought what a great deal I got until I found out that FORD has had problems with the SOHC V-6. It seems so much that FORD upped the warranty to 6 years and 72k miles and unfortunately I am just over the miles and years for the warranty. The problems are with the intake gasket and the cam chain tensioners so look out if your Explorer is a 1997 to 1999 with the 4.0L SOHC V-6. Love this truck for everything else.

• 

  $2,300 in Repairs - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Jennings - April 21 - 12:50 pm

  I purchased mine used in October 2004. Put 11,298 miles on it. I had freeze plug corrode out & my warranty would not cover them; they claimed I had improperly maintained the vehicle which I have documentation to prove otherwise. Anyway, I had something else happen right as I was leaving the mechanic from having the freeze plugs fixed & the motor blew within 1/2 mile. Had to put whole new motor in it out of pocket. Have been without the vehicle for 3 weeks now. Had been to a Ford service department in town in Aug. & they did not notice coolant was "rusty" when inspecting it. Make sure you keep an eye on coolant color, even if its not "time to check it" so you dont have costly repairs like me.

• 

  Some Features hard to get on new cars - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By rabideen - April 20 - 6:10 pm

  Best looking Explorer Ford has ever released. The oversize two tone wheel wells and smooth lines make it a gem. Cool features in the 1995 Bauer include: 1) Retractable Antenna 2) Information Center (includes miles to empty, average fuel mileage and oil life remaining) 3) Auto-dimming rear view mirror 4) Compass 5) Two-Way sun visors (front and side) 6) Built-in tissue holder 7) Both driver and passenger power seats. Incredible protection if youre in a head-on collision. I was just in one yesterday. A car was heading the wrong direction on the Interstate. I hit it at about 40-50 MPH, both airbags deployed and I was able to walk away from accident with barely a scratch.

• 

  Disappointed 2 - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By rollo - April 20 - 2:38 am

  Very disappointed in this vehicle. The EGR valve has went out several times. The automatic ride control including the compressor went out at 90k miles. The estimate from the dealer was $1,500 to fix (I had the the air shocks ripped out and put regular shocks and new leaf springs on it for $500). The climate control went out at 110k miles costing over $1200 (heater box and actuator). Antenna doesnt go up & down, cant unlock the hatch with the key and cant lock or unlock it with the back switch. Cruise control on the steering wheel broke off and the hood wont stay up by itself. Many other small repairs have been needed. Now I cant even sell it for more than I have in it in repairs.