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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  Ford Eddie Bauer Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By JPR - January 6 - 2:00 am

  This is a great SUV. I have owned several explorers over the years and use this vehicle for both commuting and significant off road driving during hunting trips. This vehicle has been tested in some very muddy, slippery and uneven terrain off road and comes through like a shining star. Its by far the best SUV for people who want to utilize the "utility" in sport utility vehicles. I have the V8 powered eddie bauer version. It wont win any drag races but delivers smooth, powerful accelleration and has more than enough power and low end torque for driving around town, on the highway, off road and towing a trailer.

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  Ford explorer-3rd one - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Pambrob - January 6 - 2:00 am

  Ahhh the 2003 is way smoother then my 1997 model. Gas mileage is way better too. I feel so safe in this suv. Picky-heat comes out on the leg...hmmm they need to move it back to the floor. But it came out on the foot of the 1997 model which was no better. My 1993 model has the heat right-over the brake foot! Which is better since your foot is not always there. Do not like the shuffle button on the radio-it messes up the order of the cd playing. AND where was the power seat for the passenger in a 30,000 car! I had not idea this was not there! ugh. But I would not buy anything else....

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  Great for beginners - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Karen - January 5 - 9:27 pm

  I bought this car for myself and handed it over to my teenage daughter for her first car. We have had very little problems with the vehicle. She drives it all over to softball games. I would definitely buy another one.

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  2000 Explorer XLT - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By jrsygirl - January 5 - 2:05 pm

  I LOVE my Ford Explorer. It handles beautifully. I love the ease of loading/unloading in the back. Its comfortable to drive. I have had no major mechanical issues and have had to do very little maintenance. The only down-side is the gas mileage. I would recommend an Explorer to anyone interested in an SUV.

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  Perfect Size - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Cardinal - December 31 - 2:00 am

  We bought the Explorer for its 4WD capabilities, but we were surprised how nice it is to drive around town. It is great for driving in town and short errands. Weve taken it on the highway a few times, and like it on the highway. It is great in the snow.

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  Satifsfied, would buy another one - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By John - December 30 - 10:34 pm

  Purchased this vehicle used in 1997 with 36,000 miles.. It has been a reliable vehicle overall. It now has 138,000+ and still going strong. It doesnt use oil, Transmission is still original (serviced every 40,000 miles). New radiator this past year and waterpump. Had a problem with water temp. gauge in 2003 new circuit board fixed problem. Only complaint is auto hubs went bad (plastic components) and would cost approx.$800.00 to fix from Ford dealer. Had manual hubs installed for half the price.

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  Very reliable & comfortable 4X4 - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By jia1 - December 30 - 10:00 am

  This is my first American car, it is supurisingly reliable, exceeded my expectations. During three years of ownership, I had only two repairs, Heater control valve and idle air control valve went bad, both were easy fixes. The rest of running cost were just gas, maintenance and insurance. I am very happy with it will continue to buy American.

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  reliable - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By martino - December 28 - 12:07 pm

  I bought it new in 1991. After some warranty problems with wiring and dead batteries no major problems. I now have 199,000 miles and still take it on long trips. Interior is falling apart. Thinking about retiring it and mounting a snowplow.

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  Still going strong - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Whatever - December 26 - 11:01 pm

  Bought it 67 months ago. No major problems. The radio was replaced, but nothing else. As long as you maintain it, expect no problems. Wish it was worth something for trade in. Will probably give it to family instead of trading it for peanuts!

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  Great SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Robert from MD - December 26 - 10:00 am

  First time Ford owner and very impressed. 15k and no problems yet. Overall, love my truck. Impressed with how well its put together. Excellent value for money. Great well rounded overall American SUV that is real competitive if not better than its imported lookalikes. Has everything you need. As all vehicles, take care of it and it will take care of you.