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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  1996 Ford Explorer - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By Michael Scott - July 2 - 2:00 am

  Bought the vehicle for winter trips over the Sierra Nevada Mountains (I-80). Chains are often required. 4x4s are exempt. I have driven this vehicle through several bad snow storms and it has never broken loose. Snow performance is excellent.

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  Try it, youll love it - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By funtodrive - July 1 - 10:00 am

  Much better than the the pre-2002 models. Good ride.

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  SO far, I like it - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Patnshan - July 1 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 02 XLT a couple weeks ago. It was a rental truck and looked and smelled new. 19,000 miles. Very poor resale value as I got it for 20k! It is dumb to buy one of these new! It feels quite solid all around. Drives very smooth. Other than the height and minimal road noise, feels like a car. I hope I stay this happy. Could use more power. I also would like slightly bigger tires. Stereo is a little weak, but I like the tape and CD feature. 3rd seat is great feature. Rear air is necessary, as the back heats up and the front blowers are not that powerful.

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  Never Had One Problem - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By mayday - July 1 - 2:00 am

  When we bought our Explorer, it was already 5 years old with 80K miles. Through a title check, we discovered that it had been a rental vehicle. Im not sure if it was the rental companys regular maitenance or the quality of this vehicle, but we have never had one mechanical problem with it. It is currently 109K miles and 7 years old, so thats pretty good! The only downside to this vehicle for me is the leg space in the rear. We are a family of four, & it gets crowded.

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  1997 Ford Explorer XLT AWD - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By chad4887 - June 30 - 2:00 am

  The 1997 Ford Explorer XLT AWD is a SUV of its own, and has just a few less miles per gallon, but the power of the AWD makes you feel more in control and makes you feel like your sticking to the road.

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  My Favorite Truck - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Vanz73 - June 30 - 2:00 am

  I have had this truck for six years and plan to keep it for at least four more. Its a lot of fun to drive-- gotta love the 5.0 liter V-8 engine. I think a few folks are surprized when I leave them in the dust. Overall this is an excellent vehicle. It drives exceptionally well for a truck (on Michelin tires). It can carry a heavy load with ease.

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  Last time explorer buyer - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By bama - June 30 - 2:00 am

  It has been in for maintenance on the horn 7 times.

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  93 Ford Explorer - Fun to Drive - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By RGFalter - June 29 - 2:00 am

  The Explorer was very reliable, however, brake design was poor. Had number of service calls due to brake problems.

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  Still Kicking! - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By 218K&Counting - June 28 - 2:00 am

  Bought this SUV in 3/00 w/ nearing 165K mi in it. Starts up easily and still runs great. Lots of traveling and daily driving to work. New fuel pump, thermostat, some minor emission parts due to engine indicator lights on. Rear differential was the only major repair. 4WD only during snow season. Flowmaster muffler & K&N air filter. No oil or transmission leak. In shop only when needed major service and/or repair and I cant do it myself. Better and low reading on the last emission test before I made those minor emission parts changed. Guaranteed it will pass the 04 emission test easily and another 100Kmi or more depending on the new owner.

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  This is a great Car! - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By CarSearcher - June 26 - 2:00 am

  I read all the other reviews, and it seems only the people who have problems post here. I for one have enjoyed this car very much. Ive had NO repair problems at all, just normal maintenance. No rattles, no qwerks at all, everything works like the day I bought it... even after 60K miles. Good job Ford!!