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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  Red Eddie Bauer - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By longbj - June 30 - 2:00 am

  It has been a great vehicle until the rear differential started making noise. It needed rebuilt, a total overhaul. I was told Ford was having trouble with this on the Explorers. Ford made the repairs, did an excellent job, and it is back to being as good as new. (However good that might be) I do expect another failure, but was promised it would be covered under warranty inspite of milage. That is the only problem I have had.

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  this car makes me look good - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By whispers - June 30 - 2:00 am

  i have leased 3 explorers since 1989. and i think they are the besy vehicle on or off the roads. i have driven cross country twice. traveled from canada to mexico on terrain that scares me to think about now that im older and dont drive as much. but my explorer, i named her (Big Red) never let me down.

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  Waste - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Frank M - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Comfort is ok but the handling is like a truck. The sway when cornering is untolerable and is annoying and dangerous.

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  98 Ford Explorer - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By BBQBuff - June 28 - 10:00 am

  In a nutshell, I have been very pleased with this SUV. More spacious than Jeeps Grand Cherokee. However, it does ride rather rough. Let me just say that is is not my wifes Mercedes. Cargo room is good, and so far no quirks or bad experiences.

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  gagicar - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By BillSchmitz - June 28 - 10:00 am

  We have had no problems and the vehicle has been well maintained. After three years, there is minimal to almost no exterior problems. Total mileage is 33,000.

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  Does the trick - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By Vikefan - June 28 - 10:00 am

  We leased this Explorer and have had really good success with it mechanically. gas milage sucks, avg is 15, but its an SUV. in 2002, the tranny slipped several times during the winter and service center did not seemed concerned. Wierd sound sometimes when using the turn signal. Ample room for family of four. Cut through snow pretty good.

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  The worse car anyone can buy - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Disappointed custome - June 26 - 10:00 am

  I bought this vehicle 8 months ago and let me begin by telling you how terrible this vehicle is. Since October, my braking system, shock system, rear air conditioning, timing belts and finally the torch converter have all went bad. Everything listed had to be replaced except the torch converter the Ford dealership is refusing to correct the problem. I purchased this vehicle with 22,000 miles and quite frankly this car is a piece of dirt. I am currently seeking to buy a Jeep Cherokee and love it so far. Just in case anyone reading this in the Knoxville area DO NOT do business with Ted Russell Ford.

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  explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By kahrn03 - June 26 - 10:00 am

  I love this truck

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  Decent SUV - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By emvikings - June 24 - 10:00 am

  I bought this suv to use the 4 wheel drive. I ski a lot and it has been fairly reliable. I have had to replace the tires as you all know (firestone). The part on the vehicle that I have had problems with is the paint. My whole hood has little cracks in it. I probably wont buy another explorer.

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  Ford Explorer Sport - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By lily3p - June 24 - 10:00 am

  Overall this is a well build SUV with good pick up and comfort. However, I dont think this vehicle has very good handling. Especially in the rain, hauling a load and emergency situations. I wouldnt recommend the Ford Explorer Sport to new drivers, i.e. teenagers. I dont think this is a very safe car. This will be our first and our last ford explorer sport.