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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  get the 4.6l v-8 - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By tkbnmkkk - September 18 - 2:00 am

  the 4.0l v-6 with the 3.73 axle and tow pkg is ok, but in elevation it tends to down shift too frequently for my tastes. Fortunately, i was on vacation and usually dont drive in hilly terrain. Still, in hindsight, i would have bought the 4.6l v-8 for the little extra $ and little difference in gas mileage.

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  oldie but goodie - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By rsaunt - September 17 - 2:00 am

  Bought in 97 with 37000miles. The dealer did a very poor job of prepping vehicle and a few days later the wipers were actually shredding during a heavy rain. Then about 3 months later the differential had to be replaced. According to my mechanic, the original leaser must have done a lot of beach driving because differential was rusted and full of sand. I blame that on the dealer (and me for not having mechanic check before purchase!). Since then it has been literally trouble-free... change oil every 3000miles, brakes when needed, and it just keeps going. Just reached 100000miles and am about to trade it in and get 2003 Explorer.

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  Good Value for Money - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Saad Khan - September 13 - 5:40 am

  Two kids in car seats makes life in a sedan quite tight. Upgrading to bigger vehicle was a difficult choice. It was either a minivan or an SUV. So the Explorer made the decision easy. Its practical and can take the abuse from my kids. For the $25K I spent for it I dont feel bad when they are messing up the car with juice or Cheerios. Adequate power, adequate options and adequate comfort.

• 

  buy it! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By ricohmon - September 12 - 10:00 am

  I am very pleased with the performance, ride, and quality of this vehicle. The cargo space is a huge plus against other SUVs in its class. The turning radius and handling are superb for an SUV. Adequate power and acceleration. Make sure you add the Sport Package for added comfort and design.

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  Ford Explorer EB - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By WADDy - September 10 - 2:00 am

  I like my ford explorer eddie bauer a lot no problems 183000 miles very nice vehicle.

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  More Problems More Money !!! - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By MoonNStarsGirl - September 6 - 2:00 am

  Well I bought it with 115,000 miles on it. So far I have replaced the Gas tank, Starter, entire exhaust system, 4 wheel drive doesnt work anymore, LOTS of rust, Leaks to name a few power steering,oil,gas.... The brake caliburs went this week and the list goes on !!!!!

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  Lesson learned - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By critter - September 4 - 1:40 am

  WE have owned this vehicle, with many problems. I noticed that the rear differential was not right from the start, but the dealership told us everything was fine each service. This is a known problem with this model year and warranty coverage is questionable. There are other problems known to Ford with this model and unknown to the consumer! We have 50K miles on it; 4 years old and now they surface after numerous complaints. I am not happy and will NEVER buy Ford again!

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  Just Right - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Lee D. - September 2 - 6:33 pm

  This is just right for most SUV buyers. Overall quality vs cost makes it a good value. Started looking at the Escapes, went up to the Explorer because of the interior noise and less space. Then went to the XLT for the moon roof. Then added the 3rd row seating. Spent a little more, but think its worth it. Look forwar to the 4WD this winter.

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  Best 2-door sport out there! - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By chad4887 - September 1 - 10:00 am

  I have loved my 98 Explorer Sport ever since we bought it in 2001 used. The biggest problem weve had with ours is the passenger lock sometimes has trouble coming up and down, but thats IT! It handles great and the gas mileage is great. Haha, you few down there complaining about the gas, try getting a V8 AWD Explorer than complain, the gas mileage comparison is GREAT! Its a nice V6, lots of power, 10 no doubt!

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  I LOVE my truck! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Queen - September 1 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 2002 Explorer XLT in January of this year (03). I have had nothing but pleasure out of it ever since. I love to drive it but it could get better mileage.