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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One Of The Best SUVs Ever Made - 2003 Ford Explorer
By abbrown2091 - January 24 - 10:00 amThis SUV is a great reliable car with all the right features. I comfortable when I drive and the gas mileage is not bad at all.
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ford - 2003 Ford Explorer
By rhythm - January 24 - 10:00 amgreat i love mine always wanted one since i was 15 got mine last year and love it wish i had the dvd package though wish there was a way to up date to it lol
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Weekend fun to weekday business - 2003 Ford Explorer
By CJ5w4WD - January 24 - 10:00 amI often drive in an area that routinely receives a 3 ft dump of snow and is low the the plow list. I have never been stranded. I feel extremely safe as I am always aware of tire pressure, etc. I can feel a low tire pressure situation (from a puncture) in the way the car handles and I deal with it immediatly. I am a 50 year old female enjoying outdoor activities on weekends but when I return to "Corporate America" Monday morning, the nice appointments fit into the 5 star environment as well.
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My Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Mach - January 24 - 10:00 amThis is my third Explorer (we lease) and by far the best one, so far. I have never had any major problems with any of them. I really like the Eddie Bauer with the "extras", truly worth the extra cost. Its a much smoother ride compared to our 1996 & 1999 Explorers (thank you) and the interior is larger which is always a plus when you need it.
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the ford explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
By garfieldaw - January 24 - 10:00 amThis car is great. it is very reliable and it is the best SUV out there on the market. i dont care what anybody else says!
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EXCELLENT - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Kaycee - January 24 - 10:00 amEXCELLENT>>>YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED
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Love this Vehicle - 2003 Ford Explorer
By goodcharlotte fan - January 24 - 10:00 amThis SUV is wonderful. When we are towing our boat, I just take my foot off of the brake and it starts moving, this is how much power this thing has. I have one with a V8 and towing package, and we live in Florida, and it has never come close to ever overheating even while towing an 8 thousand pound boat. It is also extremely comfortable on the inside, and roomy as well. And I love the audio system. Couldnt ask for more in any SUV, and its a lot cheaper than most of them, yet more durable, reliable and comfortable.
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Putting The "Utility" in Sport Utility - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Don Dick,II - January 24 - 10:00 amThis vehicle is the one you want if you "really" need to use it.It Tows boats and trailers well and does very well off road. You practically cant get it stuck. Finally its great in snow. A true workhorse, with the comfort of a luxury vehicle to boot!
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Explorer XLT 4x4 4.0L with 3rd rear seat - 2003 Ford Explorer
By MProaddog - January 24 - 10:00 amWeve had our Explorer for about 6 months now and we love it. We needed something to fit our 4 kids comfortably and four wheel drive for the snowy months to get to work. It has great power for a V6, but I feel a 7 passenger vehicle that is 4x4 should have at least 5.0L; maybe Im just old- school.
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Fun To Have! - 2004 Ford Explorer
By Melissa1 - January 24 - 10:00 amGreat reliable vehicle. Has allot of room for children. The drive is a little bumpy at times and takes a little while to get use to.
