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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  its okay - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By clint - March 10 - 2:00 am

  I bought my explorer about a year ago when it had 94,000 miles. Now it has 104,000. It makes noises when you drive. I was told to replace the shocks so I did. It help somewhat but mad the misstake and put rancho shocks on. Supper rough ride!! I bought leather seats for it and realy like them. Engine seems like a good one except when below 25 degrees, then makes funny noises when started. I would recomend, but trading in, in the next week for a pick-up.

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  Awesome SUV - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By Krshaker15 - March 9 - 2:00 am

  I used to own a Saturn and I must say, buying my 1999 explorer was the best move Ive made. Not only is 4x4 and quicker then my saturn, but I feel safer in it and it drives great.

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  so so suv - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By frdk356 - March 8 - 2:00 am

  the car is ok as far as suvs go but the gas mileage is terrible forget about getting 21mpg like the sticker says unless your driving under 20 mph ive already ahd a driveshaft replaced on it due to being defective and i only ahve 2,ooo miles on it very noisy inside with the wind wrapping around the car can hear everything outside with the windows closed wish i didnt buy it now

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  BEST SUV EVER - 2017 Ford Explorer
  By Kim M. - March 6 - 6:23 pm

  I traded in my 2016 Chevy Equinox on the 2017 Ford Explorer . I had looked at Chevrolet ,Honda,Toyota, and even a kia but nothing stood out to me. The Ford Explorer was a win the second I got in. You cant tell by looking at it but its got a ton of room inside. The drive is unbeatable. I cant imagine a better car. I have moved furniture with it, had every seat full and no one complained about the ride. The A/C is outstanding . You will not regret buying this car trust me .

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  about to buy another one - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By explo420 - March 4 - 2:00 am

  I have a 1995 XLT V6 4x4 and have pushed it to its limits only to have it ask for more. I bought it with 78k miles on it and Im about to sell it with 111k on it. My new car is a 2001 Limited Edition, because I enjoyed my 95 so much. Its comfortable on long trips, practical around town, and unstoppable off-road.

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  Mommy-mobile - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By Re2112 - March 4 - 2:00 am

  I bought the truck with 36000 miles and Ive had my explorer for 16 months now and Ive had a/c and transmission issues. I had the compressor changed and a new pressure control valve changed in the transmission. Since then Ive had no issues with my truck. Im looking for an expedition because we just had another baby and the back seat just isnt roomy with a big car seat. Other than that the Explorer is fine.

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  1997 Ford Explorer XLT 4WD - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By bcbeachman - March 3 - 2:00 am

  Vehicle has been reliable and a pleasure to own. No real problems until after 50k miles, including of course the Firestone tire debacle which I think was blown out of proportion. Only major problems have been a leak in the air plenum o-ring, replaced lower ball joints and idle air control module going bad at 60k miles. Otherwise, garaged, change oil every 3k miles, and follow the manual for all other routine maintenance. 4.0 SOHC engine runs great, gas mileage good for an SUV, no abnormal wear on exterior or interior. Solid ride, great on the highway. Would definitely recommend any low mileage Explorer to this point.

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  MY SECONDED EXPLORER - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By GEORGE - March 3 - 2:00 am

  This is my second explorer, but we now have a 2002 new and i would not own any other car. my 1993 had 220,000 on it and ran great. This one has 219,986 miles and I still drive it on the road. My wife drives the 2002 and we love it.

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  The Owner of a Ford Explorer - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By burnt on ford - March 3 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle brand new and paid around 25000 dollars for it and I has been a nightmare. Not only did the dealership try to screw me out of the rebate the transmission has been replaced 3 times in 55000 miles and the thermostat has been replaced 4 times in 70000 miles. Ford has been absolutly useless in helping me. I tried to trade it in and of course they didnt want it either. I will never buy another ford I will buy foreign first.

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  sad to sell - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By mary fullerton - March 2 - 2:00 am

  I have had this vehicle since its birth and am sad to sell it as it has NEVER left me stranded- and has done very well in 2 small accidents. The tures ROCK, and I love the steering controls for heat, cruise, tunes. I have a bunch of kids and moved into a Toyota Sequoia. I only hate that they dont hold their value due to so many program cars!