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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  Never Again - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Jram - April 17 - 2:00 am

  After having many problems with a 97 Explorer, we decided to trade it in and try again. We have had a host of problems from rear wiper motor malfunction (2x), rattle that the dealership still cant find, and a host of electrical problems from dash board lights that go on and off, check engine light that stays on, O/D off light that comes on at any time and the radio/cd lights that have not worked for almost 2 yrs. Dealership and service has been horrible and useless and drove me off the road when they did not fix my brakes properly and they did not work on Interstate 85 in Norht Atlanta, not the place to not have brakes. My Dad was a Chevy man and now I know why.

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  lovin it - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By cardio75 - April 17 - 2:00 am

  Purchased a new 2002 explorer and have enjoyed it thoroughly. Since it now has a 3rd row seat, i was able to use this as my family car and avoid the minivan club. no problems or regrets at 750 miles.

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  Worst vehicle Ive ever owned - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By 6CF - April 15 - 2:00 am

  Required new engine with only 66,000 miles, and replaced head gasket for $1200 just one month prior -- big waste. Cost to repair more than value of vehicle! By the way I changed the oil every 5000 miles. Dont buy a Ford!

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  Saved my life!!! - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By Crystal N. - April 14 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my truck in June 03, over the weekend i was rear-ended at 65mph. The truck has since been totalled, but I am alive with a bruise! I was told a police officer i should have died. He hit my rear corner and it folded, the roof began to buckle from the force and i was plowed into a guard rail, I loved my truck but safety is FIRST, and i walked away with 1 bruise and whiplash, not to mention because i was stopped i didnt have my seatbelt on. I would buy another Explorer in a heartbeat. It may be a rough ride, but the bells and whistles are fun to have plus if you have children its the most safest vehicle on the road (personally)

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  it sucks - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By me2999999999 - April 11 - 2:00 am

  run away from this vehicle

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  Explorer review - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By glang - April 9 - 2:00 am

  Great Gas Milage for a SUV. 18mph on the hiway. Fun to drive in the snow. When 4wd on the fly kicks in on slippery conditions you feel it. A slight thomp. But besides that I really am happy with overall performace and comfort.

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  F.O.R.D.= Fix Or Repair Daily - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By Catfish - April 7 - 2:00 am

  Within the first yr I had to get another trans put in. Then the gas gage stopped functioning, so I had to count and keep track of my my miles. I was told by Ford that it might cost me over $300 to fix whatyever the problem was, fuel sender,gage,gas tank, etc,etc. The second yr I started hearing noises up front whenever I engaged the 4 wheel drive. Theres something wrong with the way the wheels engage when the 4 wheel is put on. Thats going to cost me about $600 to fix. This past month,(march), the trans went again. Another $1600 for a so-called remanufactured one with a one yr or 12,000 mile warranty.

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  2002 Ford Explorer XLS 4WD - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Damon Powell - April 5 - 2:46 pm

  This is the first Ford Explorer I have ever owned and have been quite impressed with it. I was surprised at how easily the 4.0 liter engine pulled my boat and utility trailer. The Explorer is also quicker than I had expected. My only complaint (however minor) is the comfort of the front bucket seats on the XLS model. Otherwise, I find the Explorer to be a great value.

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  Best Ford SUV I have owned ! - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By Charles G Schneider - April 3 - 4:07 pm

  The MPG is not as good as smaller SUVs but it has the towing pkg from Ford and can tow up to a 6,000 # boat or camper trailer; & still have good power in the mountains. Good quiet ride on hiways. Excellent audio system (AM/FM & CD) No satellite radio.

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  Dont make a mistake and buy one of these - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By dudewheresmylemon - April 2 - 10:00 am

  Never again will buy a Ford after driving the one I bought. Hundereds of parts have been changed so far. I think I have the all time record for most warranty work done to a vehicle and still doesnt run correct. Throwen out of dealership where AI bought it and have to travel 400 km to get warranty work done.