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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  ford is still #1 - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By hwoodfloorguy - February 14 - 10:00 am

  very fun truck to drive, also stylish. 4.0L a little slower than expected, but its an s.u.v not a european sports car,although it handles like one.

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  Explorer XLT - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By bikerbill61 - February 13 - 2:00 am

  When Ford built this Explorer XLT, I think someone must of thinking of excellent. They have done a great job on this truck. I have owned other SUVs and this one has to be the best so far. The only bad thing I have had happen is now I have to buy a trailer to carry things, since that "COMPANY" has us Explorer owners as being "bad risk". My XLT has all the features of the Eddie Bauer for a few $$$$ less. Which I like.

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  Excellent All Around Vehicle - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By Jon K. - February 13 - 2:00 am

  I bought this vehicle new in March 2001 and we use it for traveling and pulling our boat. With 80,000 miles on it, it is still as tight as the day we bought it... I cant say that about my sisters GMC Jimmy that she bought at the same time! The Explorer is excellent in the snow and mud and will take almost anything you can throw at it. We use it to pull a 4,200 lb boat and trailer to lakes that are over 300+ miles away and have never had a single problem with it.

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  4,207 Miles in 14 Days. - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Jacob Tennessen - February 10 - 9:58 pm

  I rented a 2016 XLT for a long road trip and enjoyed. Overall I would give the vehicle 4 stars for attractive redesign and decent road manners. The vehicle had alot of nice features for the price of that model. It was all wheel drive and averaged only 21 mpg, but with a heavy foot (avg 85mph on interstate). It held the road well at high interstate speeds. The six speed auto behaved well outside of the almost always wanting to downshift at the slightest hill. The best word to describe the feel of this SUV is "pudgy". It is thick...dash, pillars and body. It drives similarly...not fat like a truck based SUV but you can still feel the weight in its performance. I found myself looking for more power on occasion, but the V6 is a decent mover when pedal is mashed. Nitpicking small things annoyed me like the design of the steering wheel. You cant hold the bottom of the wheel and the buttons for the functions were numerous and difficult to discern by feel...you have to look down to find right button...not good. The cloth interior (Black) was actually pretty nice. Durable and easy to keep clean. I didnt miss the leather and sunroof, but I did miss the auto climate control and auto rear view mirror. I hated having to constantly adjust. The third row lays flat nicely and the depth of luggage area increases when seats are pulled up which comes in handy, but still, as with most midsized suv third rows, its pretty tight in the back for people and luggage when the seats are up and not easy to climb back to the back seat for an adult. Overall though I would rent again. If for no other reason than decent space and comfort.

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  my great exxxplorer toy - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By kbrant64 - February 10 - 2:00 am

  this is my first suv and i love it!!!i would like to have a new 2004 but i dont like the new front end style.as for my performance on my 98 i am in love with the power take off from dead start.the 4.0 sohc could benefit from after market acc. but that will be done later.the comfort,style and fuel economy is really good 330 miles per tank,my 99 taurus got the same mileage.the dealer i purchased from was excellant,the salesman delivered it to my home and took my trade in back to the dealer.as for handling of this suv,after you learn its traits this pup can handle anything you give it.my suv is totally stock.

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  Love It! - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Jrsy1971 - February 8 - 2:03 am

  I went from an 02 Liberty back into a new Explorer and its the best decision I could have made. The Explorer handles much better, stops much better, and gets the about the same gas mileage as the Jeep did. Cant wait to see how it tows, but I imagine it will be no problem.

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  I Recommend this Truck - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By C-Can - February 7 - 2:00 am

  GOOD LOOKING AND EASY TO HANDLE. WIFE LOVED IT. THE HEIGHT FROM THE GROUND GIVES GOOD CLEAREACE IS JUST RIGHT FOR NY POT HOLES. THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE WIPERS WHEN YOU HIT A BUMP THE WIPERS WOULD START AND WOULD BE VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN OFF. I HAVE BEEN TO TWO DIFFERENT DEALERS AND IT IS STILL A PROBLEM.

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  Ford Explorer - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Rich Hermanson - February 3 - 2:00 am

  I have owned two Ford Explorers, I survived a head on accident in my first Explorer (the occupants of the other vehicle were all killed) and would strongly recomend them based on safety alone.

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  V8 (5.0 LITRE) KICKS BUT!! - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Big Eddy Sochable - February 2 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my V8 Explorer AWD XLT for over 6 years and driven it on the beach and in Snow storms. Its traction in all terrian is excellent (which gives the driver some nice peace of mind). I had 1992 V6 Explorer before this one and the V6 didint cut it (too underpowered). The 92 I had got totalled when I got t-boned by a teenager in a Volvo in 1997. The truck rolled onto its roof and the only injury I suffered was a dislocated shoulder. Thats whay I went out and bought my 97 Explorer. GOOD, DEPENDABLE SUV!!

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  2000 Explorer - watch the transmission - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By V12Merlin - February 2 - 2:00 am

  It appears the 2000 Explorer was built to last around 60,000 miles. Our 2000 Eddie Bauer is now falling apart with barely 65,000 miles. Most recently, we discovered Ford put a $50 transmission in a $36,000 vehicle. The transmission is going out. Shocking, considering 90% of this vehicles miles were on the highway in overdrive and has NEVER towed anything! From the repair shops, Im hearing Ford put far too flimsy a unit in the V6 Explorers. Many do not last as long as mine.