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 2101 through 2110 of 2,880.00-
Super vehicle - 2017 Ford Explorer
By GDG - December 8 - 5:38 pmThe 2017 Ford Explorer Platinum model is well worth the cost. It holds its own in comparison to all the higher end SUVs. Im extremely satisfied with its style, power and ease of using all the interior controls.
-
Good and fast - 1997 Ford Explorer
By Gumkat - December 6 - 2:00 amThis is a fun SUV. I have the v8 option which makes it really fast when I need it to be. I average 15mpg which is better than the brand new Explorer with a V6. I did have to rebuild the front end and the rear differential, which is funny because this is an All wheel drive model. I use it for everything.
-
Very Happy - 2000 Ford Explorer
By boochnj - December 5 - 10:00 amI was very happy with the 4.0 liter engine, although it was a little taxed when hauling a heavy trailer. It seems perfectly matched with the smooth- shifting transmission. The 4wd performed well in winter and the AUTO mode kicked in when required.
-
Electrical Demons - 2002 Ford Explorer
By ttjunkie - December 4 - 10:46 pmLove my Explorer except for the electrical demons! The power lock on the drivers side only works when the car is turned on, the lights under the outside mirrors stay on for way too long, sometimes the brake lights and interior lights stay on after the car is turned off. All that being said, theres so much space and Ford did a good thing when they added the third row. Thinking about a 2006, but since the resale on the 2002 is low, dont know if I can swing it!
-
Never Again.... - 1998 Ford Explorer
By jagarundi - December 4 - 2:00 amI wouldnt recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a SUV. The ride is hard, the electronics are unpredictable and the gas mileage is something like 10 mpg highway AND city. Theres always some kind of moaning, groaning, scrapping or rubbing sound going on as you roll down the street.The Ford mechanics are clueless when it comes to repairing this thing so they have taken to lying about repairing items that they have not.
-
Well Used and Loved - 2000 Ford Explorer
By phill97679 - December 4 - 2:00 amGreat family vehicle - largest cargo area in class. Just throw EVERYTHING in the back! Great reliability...NOTHING has happened to it. Leased then bought cheap (bank did NOT want it back). Much better to drive in Oregon rain than our Honda Accord. Would buy a 2004 next, but they look like a mini-van. WARNING! Ford dealership service dept. is not good!
-
Good SUV - 1999 Ford Explorer
By Thomas69696969 - December 3 - 2:00 amThis is my very first car, and i only got my licence 3 months ago. I love the cars exterior design(its a lot better than the new ones), and it is the best small SUV on the market. The interior is good. The towing package is great as well. The only problems I have had is the transmission is flaky.
-
happy customer - 2006 Ford Explorer
By Beth - December 2 - 8:40 pmI wish I had gotten the v8; it doesnt really need it, but the extra power would be nice.
-
Very Pleased - 2002 Ford Explorer
By curtk - December 1 - 10:30 pmThis vehicle has been very good to me. The only possible drawback is the level of service I received from the dealer. They seem to have trouble getting the few fixes that I have needed right the first time. Luckily, I bought an extended full service contract on the vehicle, which Ive probably broken even with for service repairs and oil changes. ($890/3yrs)
-
Disappointed - 1995 Ford Explorer
By PikesPeak - December 1 - 2:00 amMy husband and I bought our Explorer 18 months ago from his father, who owned it for six months and who knew the owner prior to that. The point is that we are familiar with the vehicles history and know of no abuse. The vehicle has almost 111,000 miles on it. Today we found out the transmission has to be replaced, so we are very disappointed. We never have been overjoyed with this vehicle - the ride is very rough, the automatic climate control doesnt work well, and we cant seem to get comfortable in the seats. Were debating on unloading it and getting something else.
