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:
Showing 2801 through 2810 of 2,880.00-
Great Car - 2004 Ford Explorer
By HappyCamper - September 22 - 2:00 amThe "new" Explorer is totally different from earlier models. Earlier models were much more "trucklike." This one is as smooth as silk. The engine in my 2004 Limited is a 4.6 liter V8, that is identical to that in the Crown Vic Sport, yet seems even more responsive in the Explorer. Appointments are well thought out and attractive. While I have only had the Explorer a short time, it seems to be a terrific vehicle.
-
Great Car, Great Value - 1998 Ford Explorer
By Chris 2 - September 21 - 10:00 amI bought my Eddie Bauer new back in 1998 over an XLT Explorer. The body styling on the Eddie Bauer is 10 times better than the XLT. I rarely see another Eddie Bauer on the road. I used to have concerns about reliability of American cars but my Explorer has never given me any problems whatsoever. There were some annoying recalls but nothing critical. Its super cheap to maintain and I love the acceleration. Sure it wont beat a Ferrari, but its fast for a car its size. I absolutly love this car except for a few things such as the gas mileage, handling on corners, and seating capacity. But overall, its a great car.
-
Explorer as a Tow Vehicle - 2016 Ford Explorer
By Adrian Salzer - September 21 - 5:20 amWe have logged over 15,000 miles towing our 5,000lb Airstream and this car has been perfect for the job!
-
glad we did it - 2004 Ford Explorer
By Judee - September 16 - 2:00 amGreat ride, this vehicle has plenty of get up and go,great handling on highways
-
MY SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
By MURPHEY - September 16 - 2:00 amTHIS VEHICLE IS WONDERFUL NOT ONLY TO DRIVE BUT HAS ENOUGH SPACE FOR ME AND MY PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED FIANCE. IT IS VERY COMFORTABLE TO DRIVE AND ALL THE CONTROLS I NEED ARE VERY HANDY.
-
My Explorer! - 2004 Ford Explorer
By BevAnn - September 16 - 2:00 amThis is a great SUV! I recommend it to all shopping for one!!
-
Midclass at a high class price - 2016 Ford Explorer
By Esther - September 15 - 6:12 amLove the car BUT the 2016 has less standard options than my 2014 Explorer. 2014 purchase price was the same but much more luxurious drive. Im sorry we traded in the 2014 prematurely.
-
Good buy! - 2005 Ford Explorer
By Tenderloin - September 11 - 7:20 pmThis SUV is worth a serious look. Roomy, comfy, plenty of power. Well laid out interior. MPG is less than I would like, but great pricing buys a lot of gasoline.
-
DARLAS NEW RIDE - 2003 Ford Explorer
By BINNY - September 10 - 10:00 amTRADED IN 2001EXPEDTION.MISS EXTRA ROOM IN 2NDROW SEAT AND WITDH,BUT NOT SLOPY HANDLING OR 3RD SEAT.HANDLING WITH IRS IN EXPORER IS EXCELLENT.V8 POWER IS GREAT,RIDE GOOD HIGH TOW RATING,DID NOT COME WITH ADJUSTABLE PEDALS BIG MISTAKE AT ONLY 100$THEY SHOULD BE STANDARD.IM TALL MY WIFES SHORT.OVERALL LOVE THE SIZE,TURNING RADIUS,BRAKES AND STEERING LOOKS GREAT WITH CUSTOM WHEELS!
-
Redesigned Explorer is a winner - 2003 Ford Explorer
By Jk - September 10 - 10:00 amI recently purchased a 2002 Explorer XLT and its a terrific automobile. Its quiet, has smooth aceleration and looks great. I purchased a third seat which is a great advantage for a mid- size SUV. The new Explorer should ensure that Explorer brand continues to do well.
