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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  The Best - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By jcgwildcat87 - August 18 - 2:00 am

  It is simply the best suv i have ever had. I have tried the Chevys and the Dodges and they dont even compeat with the Explorer.That is a promise

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  Problem vehical that makes me sick - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By DWheat9003 - August 18 - 2:00 am

  I have a driveline vibration problem since new, this occurs at 30, 50 and 67 - 78 mph. I also have a howling from the rear differential at 67 to 68 mph. My AC Compressor makes a loud shrilling sound when the outside temp is 85 or higher, and wistles also. Seat belt does not retract fully so then it gets jammed in door upon closing, this chips the paint on b pillar, and door at latch side, pissing me off. And most recently, accelerator cable broke and had to have it toed to dealer. Front brake rotors pulsate, had them trued up at dealer but they are still pulsating. I am currently awaiting the outcomes of lemon law proceedings.

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  Best Car I have ever Wned - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By BrentEsq - August 18 - 2:00 am

  The car has performed without flaw. The V8 makes it really quick for a big SUV. It is my 3rd Explorer. It is clearly the best one.

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  Excellent Ford Truck - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By G. Carras - August 14 - 2:00 am

  AS long as Ford makes trucks like this Explorer I will NEVER buy foreign vehicles!!!!

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  Ive been converted... - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By superman90000 - August 12 - 2:00 am

  I havent had my explorer for very long, but let me say, I love it. Ive heard a lot of crap about Fords, but my explorer has over 150,000 miles and its running great. Its excellant off road, I even showed my friends cherokee up with it last week. Its very comfortable, great for long road trips. Id deffinatly recomend an explorer to my friend.

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  AWESOME - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By starfreek - August 12 - 2:00 am

  eASIER TO GO CAMPING IN THIS LARGER VEHICLE

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  Great Bang for the buck! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By blnewt - August 12 - 2:00 am

  Just picked it up last week. Love the deal ($22,000 out the door), love the look, and love the drive! Traded in a 03 Explorer Sport (Nothing sporty about an outdated 2-door) and the difference from top-to-bottom is dramatic, everything is a substantial improvement.

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  Stylin - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By amy69degrees - August 12 - 2:00 am

  Overall this is a very sharp looking vehicle and I get lots of excellent comments. It handles better than the Explorer Sport I had previously. It feels like it is stuck to the road and can handle anything. The V8 gives me all the power I need and the AWD gives me peace of mind. I will definately buy another one.

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  First American car in 25 years - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By artego - August 7 - 10:00 am

  Swore I would never buy an american car again, never say never.....Love this Ford!

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  I LOVE IT! - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By Cass - August 7 - 2:00 am

  Im 16 years old and this is my first car. I love it because it can fit all my friends and its not as wide as an Expedition. I would recommend this for all ages.