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:

• 

  Great Vehicle - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By mdkobe - April 1 - 10:00 am

  I wanted a van since SUVs offered no more additional seating than a car, but once we got in this SUV with the 3rd row seating, I was in love. Roomy and spacious it fits my growing family well.

• 

  LOVE THIS VEHICLE - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By J.B.D. WINDER - April 1 - 10:00 am

  Every time I drive this vehicle I tell myself what A GOOD DECISION i MADE IN BYING IT.I did not expect an SUV to handle as good as it does.Mine is A V6 and has pleanty of power. Good gas millage. It has not had any problems never been back to the dealership and every thing works. 19,000 + miles. The only improvement Ford could make is more chrome on grill, exterior,& bumper.I LOVE it.

• 

  My Ford Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By ChefAnita - April 1 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE my new Explorer. It has a smooth ride, the new exterior look is very eye- catching. I am glad I waited, for this model. Go to Team Ford,,,,and ask for Rob!

• 

  2016 Needs New Throttle Body @ 8200mi - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Tom Daly - March 31 - 9:00 pm

  I find that the Explorer has too many creature comforts to list and talk about, but like some of the other customers on this site a faulty throttle body causes concern. The Ford has all the appointments that a Euro/Japanese Lux SUV would have at much lower price point. I got stuck with the vehicle in limp mode on a semi-busy road at rush hour with my two boys. Roadside Assistance was very impressive through the whole thing, but by reading blogs and comments on different forms I believe Ford should issue a formal recall for the throttle body. It was a one day fix and I think I am good now. I still would buy the car again based on the value / dollar spent ratio versus high end SUV competition. Love the new LED and LED fog lamps, its almost like never having to drive in the dark. Brakes are a bit soft and feel challenged to come to a stop quickly. Sound is good and I have had many compliments on the vehicle looks. Some have even said, "nice range rover".

• 

  Ford Explorer Nightmare - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Drking7777 - March 31 - 7:42 am

  Been. Ford guy all my life but with this purchased have experienced the worse Ford has to offer. Dealership was not the issue ford and ford quality and customer service set a new low that I did not expect. Three weeks after purchase blind spot and cross traffic indicators began to fail, this lead to nag aviation failure, A/C failure, front windows stopped working, seat adjustments failed, seat memory failed, seat massage ceased working in very uncomfortable position, defrost may be on with no way to turn off, and tire pressure alerts (tires were fine). Purchased last Saturday in March 2016 and by July 13 it was in the shop more than I had it ( 16 weeks of ownership - I drove it 5 weeks with no problems and 1 week with the dealership researching the problem and the remaining 10 week is was in the shop. Ford refused to replace. Dealership remove, seats, carpets, headliner, replace modules, engine harness, and still had problems. After taking a new car apart and putting it back together unknown times and a Ford engineer coming twice to work on it - I was then told it was now fixed - it is no longer a new vehicle, it has accelerated depreciation due to all the mechanical issues and I can no longer trust it for what it was purchased for. Ford response is they fixed it - not thier problem. Buyers beware.

• 

  Bad Drive train - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By Samson - March 31 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the Eddie Bauer 99 with all trimings. At 8000 miles the Transmission exploded and had to be replaced. . The SOC engine had many repairs on the timing belts and finally they pulled the engine to do one. Still noisy timing belts when cold. Ford is useless. Last week I had the 60,000 mile $400 service done. Today they had to replace front wheel bearing and many antilock brake parts.

• 

  Gotten A Bad Wrap - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By sjw - March 28 - 2:00 am

  I bought this vehicle new and it has only broken down once $70). I had a problem with an oil leak/transmission fluid one the 1st day. After dealing with the Regional Rep. it was repaired, the price of the Quality Care Program was refunded, the Quality Care services were honored, and the warranty of the repair was extended. Not a good way to start, but things have been fine since. At 68,000 miles the brakes have not been replaced, but will needed soon. I have been looking at new vehicles with great incentive rates-but I just cant let go of this vehicle. Nothing else has the same comfort/bells and whistles as this vehicle.

• 

  2000 Explorer Limited - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By abuttry - March 27 - 2:00 am

  Excellent drive and ride. Very reliable. V8 loves gas.

• 

  Fun in the sun with my Xlt sport . - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Debby Romero - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Recently I upgraded to a Ford Explorer Xlt Sport from a 2000 Mustang. I have two highschool teens and the Mustang just wasnt big enough for thier busy life style. Just was never enough room for friends. We live in the Bay area and I cant begin to tell you how much fun weve had in the sporty Explorer.Sunsets are fun you can pop the back open & sit & see everything. It,s alot more comfortable with the leather bucket seats with the warmers riding to Reno too. Its definately a great family choice. It costs more in gas but it dosent even bother me because its just such a great fit for the whole family.

• 

  Good looks, but poor quality - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By toysforboys - March 26 - 2:00 am

  No fun to drive, you allways have to correct the steering wheel. Problems: Brake peadal loose, Rear door felt loose, drivers door cannot be opened, Airbag light always on, sometime the tranmission is not shifting, rattles everywhere. Poor safety feature, no side curtain