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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  Best truck ive had - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By ryguy - April 23 - 2:17 am

  Bought at 70K miles from Ford dealer in Boston. Drove home to find out rear window was stuck up. Local Ford dear fixed for free! Currently at 140K and all Ive had to do was rear brakes at 136K, alternator and battery at 105K and going to do front brakes next month probably. I see all these issues and wonder why mine hasnt had these issues. Maybe it did, but not with me. I really should replace spark plugs and wires but waiting for the extra money. Handles AWESOME in snow. Gas is decent with V6 getting an average of 16 city and town- would be better if i drove a little nicer :) Love the truck and will be getting another one. Everyone compliments me on it whether they drive it ir drive in it

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  Great So Far - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By xploder06 - April 21 - 8:26 pm

  I have had this vehicle going on almost 3 years and love it! First, the negatives. The first year I owned it I had the 4WD motor and shifter replaced. During the second year, I experienced the common "clunk" when starting from rest or moving slowly then pressing on the gas. Initially, dealer replaced faulty transmission part and re-flashed computer. Computer had to be re-flashed again recently to totally fix the problem. All covered under warranty. Now the positives. The cabin is ultra quiet when driving highway speeds of 65 mph or more. Lots of cargo space, decent performance, and very comfortable seats on long trips. Best mid-sized SUV out there IMO!

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  My Ford Explorer - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By James Shultz - April 20 - 7:13 am

  I bought the vehicle on a whim and loved the way it handled. I quit driving my Cadillac DeVille and after it sat in the garage (undriven) for 8 months, the battery was stone dead. At that point I put an ad in the paper and sold it. Now all I drive is the Explorer. It sits high for great visibility, has great clearance, and rides very comfortably. The 4-wheel drive is super easy to use.

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  Definitely Dont Recommend! - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By crit - April 19 - 5:53 pm

  I bought my Explorer new because it was a nicely designed, comfortable vehicle. Unfortunately after about 25K miles many things went wrong. Mostly minor, but very annoying. Ford did not fix all of them and told me my emergency brake (pads?) needed changing. I never use that and was quite surprised to hear they came out in "rusted chunks". Ford did not pay for it. Other problems include hesitant starting, hesitant blower motor, rear window molding that cracked in the cold, buzzing speakers, and a/c "brown outs". I would not sell this vehicle to anyone I know (as Ive done with all my past vehicles). I just dont see it holding up much longer.

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  What you would expect. - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By Rick - April 18 - 9:20 am

  Right now the deals on these are unbeatable. For the price you need to pay to get into one of these there is nothing out there that can touch it. It has an average-above-average rating as a mid-size SUV at a small car price.

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  Still Getting My Moneys Worth - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By WNYFordGuy - April 17 - 1:42 pm

  My Dad recommended it because of the rebates/incentives/Z-plan discount. I was sold on the 3rd-row seat and very smooth ride. 52k miles later, I havent been disappointed - its been great for hauling kids/equipment to sports events, camping trips, and my short commute to work on our rough winter roads. Its interesting to read the other reviews - how can you complain about fuel economy (I get 15-16 MPG) when you run a heavy SUV with a relatively powerful 4.0 V6? I have no qualms about the tranny (though it whines in extreme cold at certain RPMs), even if it clunks into reverse occasionally. I agree that the rear hatch trim is lousy. For what I paid, its been a pretty good value.

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  Hugely Improved - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By ctowncarguy - April 17 - 2:00 am

  I bought an XLT 4wd with the V8 and Sport exterior package, replacing my 97 Explorer. The new one is improved in every way. I was leaning toward a new 4Runner until I drove the Ford. Glad I did. The 03 Explorer has a very smooth ride and accelleration. The handling feels solid and tight, and the fit and finish are solid. In my opinion, the quality is now comparable to Toyota and Nissan. It feels larger than my 96 Explorer. I couldnt be happier with it.

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  REGRET BUYING A FORD PRODUCT - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By STEVENS - April 16 - 10:49 pm

  Well.where do i start. I bought it 2004 and its been down hill ever since. The wheel bearings,replaced rear struts and springs twice, Ive spent a $1,000 dollars and the truck still shakes and dies at stop lights. I feel we as consumers need to take issue with FORD and press the issue with recalling these 30,000 dollar piece of junk. So I challenge you all with me and lets pursue a recall for all these mishaps with the FORD EXPLORERS.

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  No Complaints - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Moorebuilder - April 16 - 7:59 am

  Bought this Explorer in 05 for the third row seats and 4-wheel drive in Michigan. The v-8 is an exceptionally smooth powerplant that has not given us any trouble. The traction control system is nice for the icy roads, and I feel very good that my wife and kids use this vehicle as their daily driver with all of the airbags, the 4wd, traction control and overall heft of the vehicle. We also tow a 22 boat with it and it makes an excellent tow vehicle. (The towing package spoils us) Overall, I havent had to take it to the shop yet and I do standard maintenance on it myself.

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  Runs great! - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By kornkid010 - April 15 - 8:24 pm

  I bought this truck about six months ago because I needed something that does not get stuck in the snow or mud.I put some Dayton Timberline A/T tires on and it gets thought the snow and mud great. We had a freak snow storm that gave us two feet of snow and I was able to pull several people out of the ditch, including another SUV. No, the 4.0 does not make it fast, but she is able to tow what I want and go where I want. Half the door handles are missing and some of the windows dont work, but I dont care. There was also an added tow package when i bought it, which is an added bonus.