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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  Not a bad Daily Driver - 1992 Ford Explorer
  By swpke - June 6 - 2:00 am

  I have had mine for six months and I must say it is a fun vehicle to drive. I will however mention that these vehicles are very high maintenance. Look close before you buy.

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  Solid Truck - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Vinguy - June 5 - 10:00 am

  We bought this vehicle used and it has performed well. We wanted a heavy (this one weighs in at 5,000 lb) vehicle that would be crash worthy and weight is king of physics you know. Drives expectedly. Opted for the V8 and AWD because you never know and who can pass up the rumble of Fords 302 ci engine? It has been reliable with no mechanical aggravation. Its clear why there are so many on the road. Affordable to purchase and own.

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  It has been a dream Mini-SUV - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By TinKan - June 5 - 10:00 am

  I have loved my Ford. Only problem has been the rear wiper motor. Clean comfortable and runs great. Still do not need brakes after 50k. Problem with a few lights out on left part of dash on select controls but no biggie. Ford replaced my tires for free and it was not even in the recall. They even replaced the spare.

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  A vast improvement. over previous models - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By JeffreyDJ - June 5 - 10:00 am

  When looking to replace our c.1998 Explorer we test drove several vehicles, and looked at many more. We hadnt originally wanted another Explorer but a weekend test drive with it changed our minds. It drives well - - more like a truck then a car, but that was expected. What was unexpected was how it well it road and how precisely it handled. I would also argue that the 210 HP the V6 puts out is more than enough and had plenty of get-up-and-go power. And, though mostly unchanged from the 2002 models, the 2003 models looked a little more refined and finished look on the inside. Even the silver metallic door and dash inserts look good.

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  Good for a fun ride - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By ExplorerMan - May 31 - 10:00 am

  The Ford Explorer is a great car to own. Fuel economy isnt great, but if you are buying any SUV, you can expect the same thing. The ride is extremely comfortable and there is a feeling of security when you drive it. The big V6 also brings some pickup to the vehicle.

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  safe,practical and fun - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By texprof - May 29 - 11:53 am

  I drive two vehicles, my C5 Corvette and an SUV. I had a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee, but I never really warmed up to it. It leaned a LOT in curves and gave poor gas mileage. Front leg room was inadequate. The interior was very nice and the highway ride was fine. My 2005 Explorer rides much better, is quicker (though relative when referring to SUVs), and handles far better than my Jeep. It is quiet, smooth riding and has a super stability system. It has more cargo room than the Jeep. Gas mileage is very good for an SUV. I have averaged 21.6 in mixed driving. The Jeep I6 gave me 16 -17 mpg. The five speed automatic is smooth and seems to anticipate my next move. I like my explorer.

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  H B - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By Howard bragg - May 29 - 12:16 am

  This is the best to me out the bunch. It should be a extended version like the flex.

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  Great Family Truck - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By BMac - May 28 - 2:00 am

  Weve taken the Explorer on many trips ands its always run perfectly. Great in the snow.

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  I love my Sasha! - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Ni-Ni - May 21 - 10:56 pm

  I love my Sasha XLT. I traded my junk 04 for the wonderful 06 and couldnt be more happier. I was a little nervous especially since my junk 04 were giving me many problems. The ride is much smoother, the seats are very comfortable, love the new look inside and out. I got the moon roof, leather seats, no third row, 6 disc, adjustable pedals and reverse sensor. I was upside down on my junk 04 Explorer but am now happy that I made the decision because I love my new 06. I just order custom design floor mats to go with the new interior. I cant wait until the summer when I can ride and be noticed from down the road in this beauty!

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  2001 XLT sport package Explorer - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By Rex - May 20 - 2:00 am

  This is the 1st 4x4 Ive owned, and so far its been 100% reliable.. no rattles, squeaks etc from it. Ive had it on a few off road excursions, ranging from graded gravel roads, to gooey mud.. The stock tires leave a little to be desired in the mud, but were still able to get me through a mudhole that covered the hood with mud/water. I do wish that Ford had installed a torsen differential in the rearend on it, but since they didnt I plan on installing a ARB air locker..