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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Love this car - 2004 Ford Explorer
By MaryLou - March 26 - 2:00 amCar? Truck? We still dont know what to call it. Fun to drive, good-looking, leather can handle lots of kids in and out with sports stuff, plenty of room for everybody and everything. Excellent handling; I cant believe how well I can maneuver it in small spaces. We cruise along at 60 or 70 and it doesnt feel like youre going fast at all. Gas is about $30 a week.
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Best American SUV Ever - 2004 Ford Explorer
By tonyy - March 26 - 2:00 amThis Explorer runs circles around the rest out there. Best value for your dollar. Proud to drive this SUV as an American.
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Explorer of the Service Dept - 2000 Ford Explorer
By Jetfan16 - March 21 - 2:00 amLeased a 2000 XLS after our 6 week old mustang caught on fire. The truck was nice looking at the time & we wanted a truck so we went for it. Update- we just returned the truck 4 months early after numerous problems: 1. transmission shot after 15,000 miles 2. check engine light on after two service jobs 3. gages didnt work until truck was on for 15-20 mins 4. averaged 10-12 miles to the gallon with the small V6 (god only knows how the V-8 is) Funny thing is ford admitted that the quality of Explorer wasnt good until 2002 Model. Enough said- Got a Chrysler Minivan
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Worst Vehicle Ive Ever Owned - 1996 Ford Explorer
By Fed Up With Ford - March 19 - 2:00 amIf anyone is looking for a pre-owned SUV, avoid this one at all costs. With 73,000 miles, Ive had axle and steering problems, replaced the water pump, thermostat, ball joints and now need a head gasket. Im probably forgetting a bunch of things. The transmission fluid is burnt and probably close to going. Time to dump this one and go foreign.
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Suprisingly Versitile - 2002 Ford Explorer
By ppgillham - March 19 - 2:00 amWhen I purchased this vehicle, I was expecting the good ride and reliability but I have been suprised at the towing power of the six cylinder engine and the vehicles off road capabilities. I hunt elk in Idaho and have used the vehicle pulling rv trailers and camping rigs. While hunting I have used it off road with suprising success.
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Love my Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
By mascot - March 19 - 2:00 amThe V8 4.6L engine has more than enough power for towing small trailers and boats. The vehicle handles excellant with a very comfortable ride. Much improved over the "old" Explorer.
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Good SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
By Steve Adiletto - March 19 - 2:00 amThis is a good, fun-to-drive SUV. I feel safe in it. Great for long trips and riding in the snow.
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20yrowneroffords - 2004 Ford Explorer
By shhwhispers - March 19 - 2:00 amlove the ford suvs. i bought one of the first to come on the market 20 yrs ago. Ive owned one ever since, i take them every where my heart desires to roam and thats been all over the continent of America. thanks ford!
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The best vehicle I have ever purchased! - 2004 Ford Explorer
By GPP - March 19 - 2:00 amThis is the best vehicle I have ever owned. Ford has really done a great job with the Explorer. I do a lot of driving from city to city and it is an all around great experience. I get compliments everywhere I go!
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I use to Be Gmc But Now I Drive Ford - 2004 Ford Explorer
By misdia - March 19 - 2:00 amI have not purchased a new ford yet but I drive a 98 Explorer and I really appreciate having my car. When Gmc only leased me a car for more money now that I am paying for my Ford and they gave me a chance to own a car again. I needed a friend after my husband died and the Ford company came to my rescue. If I could when paying this car off in another year and if I need another car I will certainly come to the Ford company again. Thank You Sincerely Diane Johnson
