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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  my ford - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By skaholic82 - April 28 - 2:00 am

  Have some eletrical problems and starting problems, besides that it runs good for having 150,000 miles on it. the body is flawless.

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  great SUV - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Rick Knecht - April 25 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my SUV this pasted winter and handled well in all the snow we had.It really has great get up and go!!

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  Run Away Fast - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By buy another car - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Nothing but problems.Oil leak under chain cover ($525) Transmission ($2500) Steering column broke ($310.00) + 2 recalls, & many little things. Disappointing vehicle. Never buy Ford again. Will buy Toyota to get a real car. Mechanic who fixed steering wheel said Ford told him that the Fords have alot of problems with this steering wheel problem. I went to turn off my car and my key just flipped around & then it would not turn off my accessories. It was not my starter it is Actuators and Assy Bracket. My suggestion is buy another car.There are many more out there that are better than the Ford Explorer and Ford all together. Gas mileage stinks to.

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  This is my last Ford.. - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By drifter - April 25 - 2:00 am

  I dont know where to start.With 68K miles engine died (chain tensioner failed),paint is allready chipped and faded,running boards are all rusty,hood lootch broke off recently, drivers seat frame and seat latch broken too,rear differential makes horrible hissing sound,front bearings and ball joints failed also,radio LED is blinking all the time,one of the control panel lights died,check engine light coming on and off constantly,had to replace lower and upper intake gaskets and idle motor(engine wouldnt start in cold weather,faulty headlights switch,terrible gas mileage and the list goes on and on...This is my lesson, last Ford EVER.

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  my mule - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By bugguy - April 24 - 2:00 am

  overall it is a great suv, not as fancy as some of the other over-priced want to impress everyone trash on the market. Has been with us since new never had any real problems with it, except the annual trip to Flordia makes your rear feel like you sat on a peice of plywood, the seats are really uncomfortable on long trips (front & rear). Replaced exhast with Borla S.S., induction also, strongly recommend synthetic oils

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  98 xlt review (SOHC - 6cyl) - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By jaason - April 24 - 2:00 am

  I bought the car new. ItÂ’s a good reliable vehicle, especially considering the features and 4 wheel drive components. The car handles well in high winds, up hills, and fully loaded. The cargo compartment is spacious, enough for 4 people for a week of camping. The Explorer, for me, is the right size for most all situations, easy to handle, and well built enough for off-road use. Easily handles the worst weather.

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  Mixed feelings - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Jon - April 19 - 11:53 pm

  This is the 4th Explorer that Ive owned in the last 10 years. Unfortunately, it has been the most problematic. Although a far cry from "lemon status," problems have been a nuisance, nonetheless. Ford has done a good job in this redesign when comparing the old school Explorers. Unfortunately, the resale value is almost insulting since so many have been sold. I probably would consider another Explorer when the next redesign occurs for the 2006 model year, but I am strongly looking at the Toyota 4Runner. The 4Runner appears to have substantially better resale value and substance.

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  dependable - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By westover - April 19 - 2:00 am

  Its been a great vehicle. No big problems to speak of after 175k. Thats impressive in todays world. Thanks Ford

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  evaluation of 02 explorer - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By barbara a kreuzer - April 19 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. I feel safe and I have confidence that it will get me through the back roads to work. I like the seat controls for the driver, intermitent wipers, climate control and all the cargo space. The third seat is a real nice feature. The pick-up is great and it holds the road fine when next to passing trucks.

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  One Diehard SUV - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By TheBrain - April 18 - 2:00 am

  I have had this SUV for 26 months and love it! Plenty of power out of the engine and the 4x4 has gotten me (into and) out of many muddy situations. Drives like a car and sits like a truck. I spend a lot of time in this toy and the seats are holding up quite nicely.