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:
Showing 2021 through 2030 of 2,880.00-
"F"ound "O"n "R"oad D"ead - 2000 Ford Explorer
By NO MORE FORDS - March 2 - 2:00 amI purchased this Explorer new for my wife. Front bumper was out of alignment when we took delivery. Got hit with the fuel injector recall, after 3 trips to dealership for the "clunk" under the drivers feet they found nothing and we went to another dealership...missing transmission mounting bolt! Just paid it off and 6K miles out of warranty the transmission slips between 2nd and 3rd...$900 bills later! That new Sequoia is going to look good in my garage...bye bye Ford
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Good Explorer - 2000 Ford Explorer
By CPBRO - March 1 - 2:00 amAll unscheduled maintenance was covered under warranty and was nothing major. Engine-transmission match perfectly with shift points that maximize torque. Mileage ranged from 19 to 23 on highway and from 17 to 19 in town. Quick steering and smooth easy braking. Stiff ride at low speeds and rough roads.
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Respectable - 1995 Ford Explorer
By MrMattin2024 - February 28 - 2:00 amI bought this car with over 100,000 miles and it has not had any major problems. In the past year I replaced a bad thermostat ($7), a inside door handle ($12), and recently an air idle control sollonoid is going out ($104). The fuel economy is my biggest annoyance, at 15 mpg for most short trips around the area. But, it also has gotten a little over 20 mpg on some longer freeway trips. Overall, its not a bad vehicle. Also very sure-footed in snow in 4x4 mode.
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SUV has lasted despite recalls - 1996 Ford Explorer
By C. Bright - February 28 - 2:00 amMy 96 Explorer still looks good & drives well. It hasnt been driven hard - its spent more days at the airport than off-roading. I get an oil change every 5,000 miles or so and I havent spent much time at all at the repair shop (new brake pads and a new thermostat). Its been recalled twice: once because of the infamous Firestone tires, and once for for something having to do a weak front stabilzer bar link (granted, both pretty serious). I have to say I wasnt too impressed with the way it drove until after I replaced the Firestone tires with 4 brand new Michelins. They made a huge difference in stability and handling.
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I will buy another one in few years - 1996 Ford Explorer
By nickzmm - February 27 - 2:00 amBought vehicle with 23k miles, now has 143k. Other than front hub failure at 64k ($400) and premature front brake/rotor wear out (my fault for not taking to Ford dealer)($700 total) car has been very reliable. Changed fluids, etc. at recommended intervals at Jiffy Lube. Has not used a drop of oil. Tuned up at 80k. Runs great and expect to keep for another couple of years. V6 engine has enough power for my use and not too bad on milage (15.92 m/g over the last 1100 miles).
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Will Buy Another One - 2004 Ford Explorer
By rbladl - February 26 - 10:00 amI enjoy the comfort and ease of driving this vehicle in all types of weather and driving conditions. By far this is one of the best SUVs I have owned.
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Hits where it hurts - 1998 Ford Explorer
By Dave H - February 26 - 2:00 amPurchased for way below book and made up the difference in repairs. Power steering, torshion bars, shocks, ignition and ABS all repaired in 14 months. Every 3 months I was in getting something else fixed. $2000 out the window. Anyone want to buy a Ford?
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Excellent Vehicle - 2006 Ford Explorer
By Ryan33 - February 25 - 8:43 amOnly have 2,000 miles so far, but am liking this 06 Explorer the more I drive it. Very quiet inside and has a smooth ride and very secure handling.
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Love my ride - 1995 Ford Explorer
By BMarshallLRCS - February 23 - 2:00 amOnly had my Limited 3 days, but cannot say enough about the quality. Bought it with 93000 miles. Still runs and sounds new! NO Rattles, squeeks, etc. like you would expect. Overall GREAT!!
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Looking for #6 - 1996 Ford Explorer
By Gimme the V-8 - February 23 - 2:00 amThis is the fifth Explorer we have owned, and were looking for #6. I have NEVER been stranded by an Explorer. Our 96 with V8 AWD is a true workhorse. Handles snow, hills and rough roads like a champ. Still had my 95 EB V-6 when we bought this one. No comparison between powertrains. We both have V-8 AWD now, and will always buy them. 96 XLT now has 118k miles and never needed a major repair. Built Ford tough!
