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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  Excellent Vehicle - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Kenneth Lindsey Sr. - April 11 - 2:00 am

  One of the best all purpose vehicles I have owned. Better than the land rover I had at one time. Great quality, ammenities, and the new design is the perfect size. Would recommend the 4x4 Eddie Bauer v8 to anyone.

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  My truck sucks - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Paula11471 - April 11 - 2:00 am

  i have had the transmission replace 2 time, the head liner is falling and the left driver door wont close all the time and the rubber trim on the right back door is falling off and now the rear end is making some kind of noise . In short this is a Friday truck and the over all quality of it sucks and i will never own another ford!!!!!

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  transmission problems - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Matthew and Jenna - April 11 - 2:00 am

  Ive had several transmission problems with my 1992 Ford Explorer. I had to bring it back to AAMCO about 5 or 6 times Ive actually lost track but the couldnt find the problem. they were stumped. So finally the last time i got the truck back from AAMCO the mechanic said that ford explorers have transmissions from a Ford Pinto except its built a little stronger but when i say little i mean little. from a scale from 1 to 5, 1 being crappy and 10 being excelent i would give it a 2.

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  Serves me well - 1992 Ford Explorer
  By tjohnson - April 8 - 2:00 am

  Purchased as a fleet vehicle for an emergency response fire/ambulance agency. The four wheel drive has been very dependable, effective and trouble free. This vehicle is used in high altitude mountainous terrain with yearly snow accumulations of over 150 inches.

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  Never Again! - 1994 Ford Explorer
  By mutsye - April 6 - 2:00 am

  Interior door panels - all plastic - crack and break under normal use - door handles fall off, engine leaks oil at 70000 miles despite routine oil changes, oem brakes, mastercylinder and front suspension all replaced at 80k mi, engine does not hold compression when pulling my boat - 3400lbs - vehicle rated with 5000lb tow capacity - No Way!!

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  Good all around suv - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Nathan Lutz - April 6 - 2:00 am

  I really enjoy the ride and it handles very well and is great in the snow.

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  Great family car for the money - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By kids car - April 4 - 10:00 am

  Love the third row, comes in very handy. Climbing in and out is relatively easy. SUV with 3rd row, front and rear a/c, adjustable pedals, upgraded premium sound, running boards and tow package under $30,000. My only regret is not getting the V8 and the Eddie Bauer package for just $1500 more.

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  a comfy, sturdy, dependable SUV - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By ken courtney - April 3 - 2:30 am

  I recently looked over several SUVS by different auto manufacturers. Was looking for a roomy, safe, comfortable, reliable, and smooth-riding model. Came to find out that, dollar for dollar, there is nothing better offered for sale, foreign or domestic. Not talking about exotic, show-offy gas burning models designed to impress people with money to throw away. Drove it to Florida and back from the northeast and had the most comfortable and satisfying ride, and Ive made the trip several times. Plenty of cargo room and great mileage on the highway. A solid choice - you cant go wrong.

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  Little Annoyances, But a Good SUV - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By powderboy - April 2 - 2:00 am

  I have 83,000 miles on my 95 XLT, and for the most part I am pleased. The engine/transmission appear to be solid and it runs like a charm. But there have been many little things that have cropped up every year, many of them not so little in terms of cost. With every dealer recommended radiator flush, they also happen to recommend that I REPLACE the thermostat as it tends to break during this service. And this is MY problem? Also, I have had numerous electrical problems resulting in repairs and silly bugs that wont go away. This is also true with the cooling system. I am beginning to look for a new SUV with a little more room, but overall I have been happy with this one.

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  RELIABLILITY TO COUNT ON - AGAIN! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By DOOBEE - April 1 - 10:00 am

  I have owned previous Ford Explorers - and cannot rave about them enough. Never any problems! - I also have a 2003 BMW 745IL & I prefer to drive the Explorer - as it is more comfortable and reliable, at FAR less the cost! Go for it - without any hesitation.