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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  2nd Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Jacqui - November 29 - 2:06 am

  This is the second Explorer DH & I bought. The first was a 2000 that was nice but nothing to brag about. When Ford redesigned the Explorer for 2002 I fell in love. I love the NBX model because it has a fun feel. It seems everywhere you turn someone has an Explorer and it was nice to buy one with some difference; however the roof rack does weigh down the truck. The truck itself drives beautifully (much better handling than the 2000) and the third row seat has come in handy plenty of times. We also have a very dark charcoal color cleanable interior on the truck which I absolutely love. I hate light color interiors which show so much wear and tear and the dark interior on the seats and carpet helps.

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  Proud Owner - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By 03 XLT - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my 98 Rodeo for this truck, and I am glad I did. The exporer has more than enough room. Although I will rarely use it, I love having the third row seating. I wish that I would have gotten the V8. The V6 is fine, but I would like the V8. The Rodeo had 4wheel drive. My expo doesnt, hope That I am not going to need it. But this is my wifes truck and she loves it.

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  Nice but noisy - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By ART42 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Had water leak in windshied at 20000. Windshield was reset and water leak cured, but, wind noise above 35 MPH is now intolerable. Resetting windshield no help. Ford factory claims this is a design problem. Cannot be fixed. Am very unhappy Ford owner at this.

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  Third Ford Explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Joe C. - October 29 - 2:00 am

  This is the Third Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer Ive owned my first was a 1999 AWD V-8, my second was a 2002 Eddie Bauer V-8 the first year of the redesign and it was light years ahead of the previous model as far as ride control and comfort go. My new one is a 2004 Eddie Bauer V-8 again Ford raised the bar on the mid size SUVs. Please remember this is a full frame truck NOT a unibody AWD car.

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  retry American - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By tomx15 - October 28 - 10:00 am

  Replaced a 96 Honda Odyssey (a totally reliable auto!). Build quality improving but not on par with Honda. Int layout and seating fabrics vg. Drivers seat is like an ironing board. (99 Accords more comfortable). Gas mileage is awful - 16mpg on daily commute of 70mi. 1mpg better on the highway. Rack an pinion steering very good and ride very improved over 2002. Dealer VG. This truck is not as versatile as Odyssey. Noticed that seat belt shoulder strap is wearing on plastic trim and cutting it as well (hope not a safety issue).

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  Great Truck! - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By bryce thomas - October 24 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has had absolutely no problems, and the quality is great! Ford dealer maintenance has been great as well. I would put this up against any FOREIGN vehicle. I am proud to support America and our workers in buying this great vehicle. American pride keeps Americans employed!!!

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  explorer vs. escape - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Jarl Peltonen - October 24 - 10:00 am

  I recently traded a 2002 Escape for the Explorer XLS. My initial impressions were for the added cargo space and handling. The 2004 Explorer has improved handling with a little swaying in turns, but overall much improved. The blind spots are almost non existent due to the door pillar being further back. The cabin is quiet at high speeds vs. the Escape which was very noisy. For the price this is a perfect vehicle for my needs.

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  Love the Explorer - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By D35C35 - October 22 - 10:00 am

  I love my Explorer. Have had no problems, and will buy a new one when I drive this one into the ground.

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  Still the SUV King - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By undrae - October 22 - 10:00 am

  I recently traded in a 2002 CRV for a Ford Explorer. Some may question this decision however after driving the explorer, you would make the same choice. The Honda was a good car but not truck. The Explorer fits my lifestyle and gives me a comfortable smooth ride. The only question I had was reliability. Well thats still up in the air. I also made the decision base on all of the world wide turmoil. I guess I rather be putting money into a company that is American, not to say I would purchase a quality foreign car. The bottom line is I am extremely happy with my Explorer.

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  So far, so good! - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Kyle - October 22 - 4:50 am

  For all those who are looking to buy a 2003, this is a quality SUV. The mileage isnt great, but if youre in the market for an mid-sized SUV, you know what youre getting into. I bought my Explorer used and it was kept very well. It has no history of any repairs in its first 46,000 miles. The tires were replaced at 20,000 and it had frequent detailing. I bought a gem and I love it.