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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  Good truck - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By Osborne820 - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Good truck very dependable. ONly problem i had was a sensor going out on it and it now has 152000 miles on it and is still running good. I hope it makes it to 250,000 it is a really nice truck.

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  Typical Poor workmanship - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Kipiew - April 24 - 10:00 am

  My Ford is the reason why my mechanic can afford to buy a house in this real estate market.

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  nothing but trouble - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By john kiernan - April 24 - 2:00 am

  ever since I bought my 91 explorer Ive had nothing but headaches with it.first it was the fuel relay sensor that went then 2 brake lines, then the ignition shroud is shot and last but not least I had to replace the front end upper and lower ball joints and the tie rod arms.and just tonight it started making grinding noises in the front as i was turning a corner....what a piece of crap!

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  2006 Explorer XLT 4.0 V6 - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Rick S. - April 22 - 10:00 am

  Driving this vehicle is like driving a big sports car. Very powerful and responsive. The engine is VERY smooth when idling. The cloth seats are firm and comfortable with good lower back support. The door handle takes a little getting used to. There are 2 minor glitches that I will take care of soon. Overall, it is one fabulous SUV and I hope it will stay like this for a long time to come.

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  100,000 Miles and still going strong! - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By Prairie Pastor - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I have a 95 Ford Explorer XLT that recently passed the 100,000 mile mark. Im happy to say that its still in great shape and still going strong. I did have to replace the power steering system recently, but other than that, its been a great SUV. This is one Ford that lives up to its motto...its built Ford Tough!

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  Getting parts a mystery - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Bluejay6 - April 19 - 1:24 am

  Bought 2016 Explorer LTD in August. Enjoyed car ran fine including a trip to Florida. Middle of March with 13,000 miles car went into "limp home mode" which caused loss of speed, power and safety. I went from 55mph on the expressway to 8mph with giant trucks on my tail. Needed a new Electronic Throttle Body, none available anywhere in the country. Its been TWO weeks so far without any fix in site. Ford has not stepped on this one, very poor customer relations. Its a nice car, lots of cool gizmos and doodads, but this problem has soured me on Ford and this car. Be wary

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  Fun and reliable - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Rodriguez777 - April 18 - 10:00 am

  Since Ive leased my vehicle a year ago every time I get in it its like Im driving a new vehicle all over again, its so much fun and comfertable to drive I dont get tired of it like I have with past vehicles...

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  Original Owner - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By Batsava - April 17 - 2:00 am

  The roomest SUV for cargo. Find that at 85,000 + miles and counting, it has served me well. Like any vehicle, you need to take care of it with regular maintenance

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  Great Ford Experience - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By Stuart - April 14 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has been a dream since I bought it. It is comfortable on long drives, great for short halls and very flexible when needed. The vehicle has never let me down and I have always paid attention to the little things regarding basic maintenance. As a result, I think the car has rewarded me with no major repairs. The most costly repair was the CD changer and radio.

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  so far a great vehicle - 1992 Ford Explorer
  By explorer owner - April 12 - 2:00 am

  so far we are very happy with our explorer, the 4x4 works great! did rust a little, but other then that the body is in great shape.we havent had any mechanical problems with it. i love it!