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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  explore the possibilities/Ford Explorer - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Michael - June 23 - 4:06 pm

  Ease of parking, limited blind spots, comfortable ride, ample leg & head room, A/C. It out performs all expectations. If you like long drives without fumbling with music options get the 6 disc CD option upgrade; this sound system will delight! Plenty of storage space & compartments for knickknacks, fold down 2nd & 3rd row seats equals plenty of storage/hauling space.

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  "Hoppin John" - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Marion - June 23 - 12:23 pm

  From the purchase, have been disappointed with the performance of slow take-offs and rough shift changes. Takes off great if you really step on it, but easing around a parking lot is embarrassing. We have nicknamed the truck, "Hoppin John". Have taken it back to the dealer three times without satisfaction.

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  BEST TRUCK ON THE EARTH - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By FORD MAN - June 21 - 2:00 am

  THIS TRUCK HAS SERVED ME WELL OVER THE LAST 73,897 MILES IT DOES VERY WELL OFF ROAD (IM THE GUY THAT ACTULLY USES THE 4X4) IT WILL GO ANY WHRER DO ANYTHING ITS A VERY GOOD TRUCK DOES VERY GOOD IN ALASKA WINTERS

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  Top Notch - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Cherryb88 - June 19 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is top notch. The handling and comfort are incredible. The gas mileage is comparable considering the vehicles weight, engine type, etc. For those who complain about gas consumption, purchase a 4 cylinder compact car and sacrifice the luxury and class of the Explorer. Overall, I am thrilled. I was a devout Grand Marquis driver until I drove the Explorer. WOW! Ford, you continue to have a happy customer!

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  Still going strong - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By Reginaps - June 19 - 2:00 am

  This has been a very reliable car. I bought the new Michelin tires specifically made for SUVs, and it improved the ride and handling substantially.

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  My 1995 Explorer has over 260000 miles - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By jjones5254 - June 19 - 2:00 am

  Never burns oil. Only major problem-replaced transmission at 220000 and that is ok with me. Still looks good.

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  She Finally did the Roll Job... - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By SWillibr - June 13 - 2:00 am

  OK vehicle. Lacks Japanese interior comfort qualities. Reliable. REALLY bad breaks! Front suspension bad (I- Beam). Good cargo room. Medium quiet ride. Rolls too easily. Great safety restraints... My family is still alive.

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  This car is amazing!! - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By I like this car - June 11 - 2:00 am

  I have found that this car is the best SUV ford has ever made!!! I love it, built for life in canada!!

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  Almost 1 Year Old - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By bh_okedoke - June 11 - 2:00 am

  Getting on to the first year mark. Have the 4X4, 4.6 V8. The truck runs great, looks great, sounds great ( no interior squeaks - still as tight as the day we bought it ). The ride is stable, sure footed, very nice at highway speeds, seats are comfortable on long trips ( did the New England to Florida Le Mans this past year ).

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  Test Drove Today - 2015 Ford Explorer
  By Bobbie - June 9 - 5:42 am

  Im looking for a newer car. I have a 2007 Buick Rendezvous and looking to upgrade. I originally did not come to the dealership to test this particular car, it caught my eye and my husband and I decided to go for it. I had pros and cons for our family. Pros: This baby defiantly had power. I barely pulled out of the lotand it was doing 60mph. The ride was very smooth and quiet, like my Buick in its earlier days. The front had lots of leg room. Im 5ft 10in and my husband is 6ft abd both us were very comfortable. I didnt even have my seat all the way back abd still had plenty of leg abd head room. Cons: The car is not very good on turns. It does not turn smoothly. I also found the cargo space lacking. I work in direct sales and haul a lot of stuff to customers, anddo a lot of vendor shows as well as drive my kids around. Cargo space is a must have for my family. I dont think there is much leg room for my kids as they get older. The car sits a lot lower than Im used to. Overall its a pretty good SUV, but if you need a family car or cargo space you might want to check other options.