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 501 through 510 of 2,880.00-
great suv - 2003 Ford Explorer
By explorer - December 31 - 4:42 pmI purchased this vehicle with 56k and it now has 62k and so far no problems. The thrid row seat is actually usable and provides more room than a family members 04 tahoe. Great handling and mpg on the hwy and decent city milage. I take very good care of my explorer and I also expect nothing less than great reliablity, I am not rough but not easy on my explorer. As long as you follow the recomended services then the explorer will provide you with a long life.
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spoiled - 2010 Ford Explorer
By tim sturm - December 29 - 4:34 pmWhen Ford said "no" to gov money I decided to buy Ford.period. Traded our Lexus 350 for 2010 EB Explorer. After 35 days or so and 2600 mi Ford is in for engine repair. Wanting our 2005 Lex back: more comfort, more storage space,more convenience in door storage pockets and center console,overhead handles,etc etc. Willing to pay more for better experience.Really wanted to report Ford was better Still waiting on repair...sorry
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CLUNK TRUCK - 2002 Ford Explorer
By DAVE (KENTUCKY) - December 29 - 2:00 amAFTER PURCHASING THE EXPLORER I NOTICED A CLUNKING NOISE AND A HOWLING NOISE IN THE REAR END THAT WOULD DRIVE YOU CRAZY. THE TRUCK HAD 45000 MILES ON IT. WITH NO EXTENDED WARRANTY I PAID $1200 DOLLORS TO GET IT FIXED,WELL PARTIALLY FIXED, IT STILL HAS A CLUNK AND A SLIGHT VIBRATION WHEN TAKING OFF. IF YOU BUY ONE "GOOD LUCK". DAVE (KENTUCKY)
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The best explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
By a_c911 - December 29 - 2:00 amThe new explorer is the best one of all the explorer models. With the 4 wheel independent suspension, very roomy interior and the horse power. It has been a great experience with how comfortable it rides. I would recommend it to anyone.
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driving my explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
By Darrell - December 29 - 2:00 amour experience with the 2003 explorer we purchased so far is excellent we have had no problems of any kind, we have had it about 6 months and put 10000 miles on it. we had 2 expeditions before buying this but we found it will do the job just as well especilly for my wife because she is a short person and really likes the smaller vehicle better, so we give this car at this point an excellent report
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Mixed Feelings - 2004 Ford Explorer
By tagco - December 29 - 2:00 amWhile I have not had any mechanical trouble with my Limited 2wd, I have numerous problems with fit and workmanship. The combination of DVD and Sunroof does not seem to be a winning combo. There does not seem to be enough support for the DVD system, as a result there are numerous creaks, groans and rattles right above my head. The hatch and hatch windows plastic panels are also loose and I have shored these up with foam pieces jammed around the panels. The ride is much rougher than I anticipated. Overall looks and features are great, however I am extremely disappointed in the ride and workmanship of the interior.
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Buy a Ford Explorer TODAY! - 2004 Ford Explorer
By jules76 - December 29 - 2:00 amI have driven several SUVs and this far outweights the rest......Buy one today!
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GREAT SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
By MIKEBIGEZ - December 29 - 2:00 amI have owned 3 Ford Explorers over the pass 13 yrs. I just purchase my third one and kept my 10 yr old 2nd one as a all around work truck. The new one is by far the best.I remodel rental properties on a part-time basis that I purchase which are in bad shape so my Explorer is used frequently to haul all kind of stuff. But I am a CPA on a full time basis and need a nice looking car to call on clients too. The Explorer meet both of those needs and a big selling point for me was that it holds a 4x8sheet of plywood which is a must for me and it is the only one of its size that does that.
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nothing - 2004 Ford Explorer
By Glenn Cunningham - December 29 - 2:00 amgood traction in snow
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explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
By rlcd - December 29 - 2:00 amBest vehicle ever owned. Much better than Trail Blazer. Roomy love the third seat for kids.
