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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  Love it! - 2008 Ford Explorer
  By lynn - October 4 - 9:35 pm

  After reading, test driving,etc. etc. I just couldnt talk myself out of getting this Explorer and am so glad I didnt! I love it, the ride is great, easy for my elderly parents to get in and out, as well as the grandkids! I actually look forward to driving to work! Interior is very nice and easy to use audio system. Cant say anything bad about it!

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  The Thrill of Driving an Explorer Sport - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Glenn Porter - October 3 - 4:54 am

  Wow, I love this car and I love working with my Ford dealership, Jim Burke Ford and Nicole Martinez, who helped me decide on the Sport over the rest of the Explorer lineup. This vehicle has passion for the road, even when there is no road because of the full time AWD and the off road settings, and it is better appointed than my previous Mercedes S class, and the cost of ownership is much lower. The Mercedes tuneup runs in the mid $450 range, the Explorer is $39.95 for its services and it is a lot more fun to drive. I tried out the Land Rover and the Lexus, but none of them have the styling and features this vehicle has, and the others are much more to maintain, and frankly, they are ugly in comparison to the new lines of my 2016.

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  Ill stay with General Motors! - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Bu_BU - October 2 - 10:00 am

  After buying Vehicle @ 40,000 Miles, Dealer Was terrible. I gave them the Check and was told that there was only 1 Key and they wanted $65.00 for key and programing. Engine makes a noise I never heard before it sounds like the engine is rattling after you restart engine when it is warmed up. Noise Goes away as quick as it comes. V=6 SOHV is under powered for towing and 5 speed trans. is ok when it shifts. The Best Part of a ford is the transmission as they Shifts smooth unlike the G.Ms. Lack of Torgue. It does have a Good turning radius. Feels like the Rear wheels stop before the body,Need I say any More???

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  Ford Certified ??? - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Tim - September 30 - 10:03 pm

  Bought this Ford used two months ago with a Ford Certified guarantee. 169 point inspection? Well, they missed a few things... almost immediatly we noticed a hesitation when accelerating on the highway, but it was rare and never presented when we took it to the shop. Over the last month it was more frequent and this week when we took it in they said the transmission needed to be replaced. While working on it, they also found the radiator has a leak and will need to be replaced. This is a 3 year old truck with 55,000 miles! Not what we expected from Ford.

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  not bad - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By abbott - September 30 - 1:41 pm

  ive owned this truck for 4 and a half years and havent had many problems. i changed the whole rearend because of it screaming.that has been the only issue.my wife and two small children drive it and love it. this is my second cxplorer and will definetly have more in the future

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  I would buy an Explorer again - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Witmer - September 30 - 10:00 am

  My Explorer is an excellent family ride. Seats 7, 4wd for the snow and 21 MPG on my daily commutes on the freeway of 45 miles each way. The dealer has been exceptional (Blue Oval certified). I paid 34,000 for the vehicle and it has been trouble free. I opted for the v-6 and glad I did with gas now 2 bucks a gallon.

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  7 years w/few issues - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Tolland Mc Murray - September 27 - 10:28 pm

  On the hole, this has been a decent family truckster for seven plus years. Major issues have been the leaking rear differntial and an alternator that quit on the freeway during rush hour. Transmission now starting to slip a bit at 87000 miles. Has been great in the snow and on other lnog-distance trips, good combination of passenger room and stuff hauling ability. I have been very pleased with my Explorer, look forward to having it for many more years.

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  has been a great SUV! - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By MGGDTW - September 27 - 9:02 pm

  Cant believe hearing about all the probs people have been having with these! Very happy owner here. Owned since new,112k miles on my 4 door 2WD 4.0 V6 as of now. Rear axle replaced at 30k under warranty. Front suspension components were all replaced finally at 100k. Some AC components were also replaced. No continuous or nagging problems. Took a 6500 mile road trip from Detroit to Death Valley and back without a lick of probs back in 05. 123 degrees at Furnace Creek and AC kicking ice cold. Great for the long haul!

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  BEST EXPLORER IVE HAD - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By RON G - September 27 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS MY 3RD EXPLORER SINCE INTRODUCTION IN 1990. I HAVE TO SAY FORD HAS COME A LONG WAY WITH THIS PRESENT MODEL. ITS QUIET, SMOOTH AND POWERFUL. THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR IS WELL FIT, AND HAS A RICH UPSCALE LOOK TO IT. BEFORE PURCHASING MY EXPLORER I LOOKED AT THE CHEVY TRAILBLAZER, AND WAS NOT IMPRESSED, GLAD I BOUGHT THE EXPLORER

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  Piece of junk! - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By Matt - September 24 - 9:50 pm

  Well if your looking for a gas sucker this is your kinda car! Ive had it for almost a year myself. My father knew the ppl who bought it brand new. They took good care of it but no matter how well you treat a Ford, they always fail on you. It sucks gas, looks ugly and is louder then a mack truck! And make sure your ready for the expressway because if you want to speed up to pass your going to have to floor it otherwise the tranny stays in the same gear and you dont go anywhere! Whatever you do dont buy this thing, and i thought my sebring was bad!