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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  Sad to be selling - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By HeyPez - March 3 - 12:28 am

  Has been fairly reliable for the 9 years we owned it. Heard some "clunking" while breaking at slow speeds occasionally which mechanic and dealer could never isolate. Recently, we had a radiator fluid leak from the manifold intake which a radiator sealant "fixed". Then even more recently, the 4WD hubs in the front started making noise so my mechanic removed them. Body developed very little rust throughout life, just alittle under the doors. Would recommend these cars!

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  My Ford, Still going strong - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By onegoodford - March 2 - 2:10 pm

  I purchase this SUV new in the fall on 1992. The engine & transmission are bullete proof. Over 9 years old and it doesnt leak any fluids. Ive pulled several heavy trailers with no problems. My only regrets are not opting for the sport seats and 4 wheel drive.

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  Depreciation vs. Work Horse - 1995 Ford Explorer
  By johndoe - March 2 - 1:53 am

  One of the best cars I have ever owned, it now has 129,000+ miles but has had better reliability than any Nissan I have ever owned. The cost becomes enormous if you dont keep them a really long time and I get bored quickly. The resale value goes to the dogs every time I buy a Ford vehicle just because of the name of it.

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  Fix Or Repair Daily (FORD!) - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Fix Or Repair Daily - February 28 - 4:00 pm

  First 10,000 were great. This car has been in the shop for the last 26,000. Im on the 3rd rear end, the tail gate rattles and they cant fix it. Had to warranty rotors at 15,000. The list goes on. This is an ureliable car not worthy of your hard earned cash. Incredible that after all these years of building this car that they still have these problems.

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  1st new truck - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By RBraunius1 - February 23 - 2:00 am

  This is my 1st new trcuk so I am not a great judge of new vehicles. I am very happy with the size of the vehicle, it has plenty of storage and with the NBX rack and net on the top you can just throw your Christmas tree up there and head home. I love the upright seating and view of the road, and the look of the 17 inch wheels and tires add to my positive review.

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  Definite Keeper - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Tyson - February 22 - 8:43 pm

  Great interior features. I have the dual temperature controls and stereo is excellent. I was pleasantly surprised by the fuel mileage for such a heavy vehicle 5600 pounds(18 mpg combined). Road feel was solid and easy to drive which is a wife factor.

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  Goood - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Peter eagle - February 21 - 10:00 am

  Test drove the xlt 4.0, I own a 1998 explorer xlt but this years is 10 times better than the old model, I orderd the limited with V8, eventhough the 4.0 felt strong I will incline for the 4.6 just in case.

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  Ford Limited Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By plexie28 - February 18 - 10:00 am

  Excellent SUV and excellent quality! Well built, attractive, powerful, reliable, rich-looking yet affordable, spacious, comfortable, American made, road and off-road friendly, room for the whole family, many extras, sharp! I highly recommend this vehicle.

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  Decent Overall SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By iris49 - February 18 - 10:00 am

  This is a decent overall SUV but does need to improve the seats and the engine to really make it a much better one. I tested a Buick Rainier and its seating and 5.3L V8 are far superior to the Explorer but the Rainier is hard to get in and out of the backseat and doesnt come with a third row seat.

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  Second Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By ChristieChris - February 18 - 10:00 am

  For the most part, I am happy w/ my Explorer. The color scheme is great and the NBX package really sets it apart from the standard Explorer. The truck is rugged and the 4x4 auto is properly sensitized.