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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  I love it! - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By RB Jones - October 18 - 2:00 am

  I bought this used with high miles in 2001. Since then, Ive had no major problems except last week I changed the thermostat. The exterior is the best lookin SUV out there, its not funky or bubblely like some other SUVs. Great interior look, dashboard and lots of cargo room. Adequate power and acceleration. Next week I am buying a new Explorer and will continue to own one for a while.

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  Loved it at first............BUT - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Foxxii - October 17 - 10:00 am

  When I first bought it, I really loved it. After a while, I wasnt so sure. With 3 children, it was very hard for them to enter and exit back seat. Not to mention the gas mileage stinks! I have recently looked into trading this vehicle and I must say that the trade in value of this SUV is very depressing. I will lose thousands of dollars. But it will be well worth it for me to get out of this thing! The ride is terrible. Feels like youre driving a truck! A/C doesnt work very well in extreme heat either. My overall rating of this vehicle is VERY POOR. Oh, I also forgot to mention that the rear window, where you open the back is leaking also.

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  The Old Green Mare - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By Newey - October 15 - 2:00 am

  150,000 miles and still going strong

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  Looks are only skin deep - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By SeriousSam - October 14 - 10:00 am

  I was very happy to purchase this vehicle, but the longer I drove it, the more little things would come up to irk me. Ergonomics of the dashboard are not the best, layout of the components is poorly thought out. Engine is loud, sounds like a truck (which it essentially is, but it could have been made quieter for a passenger vehicle). Cheap parts (paint, interior). I put a mountain bike in back and ended up scratching the heck out of the interior and ripping the rubber seal around the door. Otherwise, the interior is very roomy, comfortable ride, good outside looks, overall Im satisfied, but not thrilled.

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  Disappointed... - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By aeodie - October 14 - 10:00 am

  I decided to buy the explorer instead of a grand cherokee or 4 runner because I liked the styling and it seemed to be the perfect size for my family...not too big, but bigger than most mid-sized suvs. I bought a new vehicle because we were about to have a new baby and I wanted something reliable...that has not been the case. I have had the rear- end replaced because it was making a loud noise. I have had the engine light come on due to a spark plug problem. Two tires were replaced due to "abnormal wear," and the interior has had some problems. I have been disappointed with this vehicle, even though the service from Ford has been good.

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  Just Lovin It ! - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By new suv guy - October 14 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle in June 2003 with 94000 miles and an extended warranty contract. I have put 9,000 miles on it since. Other than a rattly suspension (replaced shocks), it has been great.

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  My Review - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By Kj - October 14 - 2:00 am

  This is a great 4WD vehicle, but with poor gas milage.

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  Dependable Ford Explorer - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By jeradoh - October 13 - 2:00 am

  Well built, easy to maintain, safe vehicle.

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  past its prime - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By jim&kiche - October 12 - 2:00 am

  bought the car at 90000 and now have 15000. ive probably put at least $4000 into in the last 3 years. various problems: brakes, driver door hinge went bad ($700), too many other little things to remember. a/c broke. inflatable seat pads stopped working and one deflated causing it to tear from wear. driver door handle, not the latch, broke off because of hinge issue. trans not very smooth. passenger auto door locks dont work any more. rear window wiper only works when it wants.

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  THE BEAR - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By MARI - October 10 - 2:00 am

  I love this SUV...its got the WORKS!! on it and it handles/drives great on the open road with goodies like rear air with radio/cd controls and plug-in for a player...overhead console and weather/directional indicators...child proof locks. Cools/Heats great with either control you want to set like rear/below/around/under/circle. Lock your keys inside??? No problem with a Keyless entry --- punch in your code...as car automatically locks also. Selling only because Im a widow and have bills/taxes to pay and seeking a smaller engine car for getting about. I will guarantee that youll love/enjoy this SUV.