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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  Great little SUV - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By Mulan - April 22 - 2:00 am

  I bought the vehicle from a dealership at the private party value. Im extremely pleased with all aspects of the SUV.

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  Best Ford I have owned - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Butch 50 - April 21 - 8:06 am

  Has good pick up from standing start, lots of room for passengers and cargo. I give it a 10 for fun to drive, excellent sound system with 290 watt bass.

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  I love this truck - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By mysticelement - April 18 - 2:00 am

  This thing is still running on its original battery, amazing. It was bought new. Weve always taken good care of it the 4x4 is excellent for winter driving. The brakes were replaced recently, after skidding thru 9 northern winters. Theres plenty of room inside for hauling things and people. This is my first car and Im really happy that it is.

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  Wouldnt buy another Explorer - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By dmlj - April 18 - 2:00 am

  I also have a 1996. It is a much better vehicle than the 2001. The 2001 has been in the shop at least 6 times since October. Stalling problem, engine knock, brakes, and overheating. Only 40,000 miles on it - time to get rid of it. Will try foriegn next time!

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  Ford Explorer - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By John J. Smith - April 18 - 2:00 am

  I normly by a new vehical every couple years but I enjoy this explorer to much to get rid of it. Its ride on the highway is very good,off road is rough.Driving this in the winter is great. The automatic 4 wheel drive was a great invention.

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  Had it for 12 years and still enjoy it - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By rrenner - April 16 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car new in 1991 and it has served us well since then. Its been up and down the east coast twice and used virtually every day since it was new. After some initial problems with bushings - repaired under warranty - it has been remarkably trouble- free. Replaced A/C after 5 years. With a 5- speed, its still fun to drive. Gas gauge has been broken for w few years I just reset the trip meter. The center armrest broke recently - a common problem. I replaced it with a good match. I want a new car, but will miss this one.

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  Average car - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By francisco de Paula - April 10 - 2:00 am

  Comfort, Economy and Fun to drive could be improved. Good Reliability.

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  transmission - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By trottdog - April 8 - 6:03 am

  This is my second ford. I will not buy another. I just got 50,000 miles on it and the transmission went out. This is not a mustang that im spinning the wheels, this truck does not go off road. they want $ 2900.00 to fix it. this truck will be on the market as is. i will buy a Jeep.

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  Its a Ford - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By CoveredWagon - April 8 - 2:00 am

  We bought our explorer with 35k and it now has 109k. It creaks, squeaks, rattles, and bangs like a covered wagon. Interior fit and finish is horrible. Door handles break off, the sunroof leaks, pwr windows stopped working. However, as long as you run super unleaded and do regular maint it hums like a sewing machine. The normal mech repairs were cheap to accomplish and it is plenty roomy. It has gotten the job done with very little excitement but also at very little cost.

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  VERY EXCITED ABOUT OUR 06 - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Everett - April 7 - 6:36 am

  We drove a 1998 Eddie Bauer for 8 years and liked it. When the 2006 came out, we were first interested because of the improved safety features. After test driving it we found much else to like about the redesigned 2006. It is very quiet and the ride is very smooth. Our 06 Eddie Bauer has a long list of great features that we are enjoying more and more the longer we have it. The more we use it, the more convinced we are that we have made the right decision in buying this vehicle. While the gas mileage leaves something to be desired -- but what decent sized SUV doesnt -- everything else about the 06 is very satisfying to us. We would recommend it to anyone thinking about an SUV.