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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  My First Ford - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By monte - February 20 - 10:00 am

  This SUV has exceeded everyone expectation I had set when I began searching for a new vehicle. From day 1 of owning it, I have loved driving it. I commute approximately 2 hours a day (50 miles each way to and from work), so I have had plenty of time and opportunity to enjoy it. I would suggest anyone in the market to get the third row. Also, I would highly recommend the V8. While mileage does degrade with the larger engine, the trade off is worth it to have so much more HP. Other than that, I would recommend this SUV to anyone.

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  Nice truck/SUV, but worried - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By mikeiver37 - February 16 - 10:00 am

  Really a nice package for the money, but worried about long term ownership. Recently had rear end replaced @ 34,000 (under warranty). Seems these things eat a rear end every 30-40K. Ford dealer acted surprised, but Internet bulletin boards are full of this problem. Also, took 2 full weeks to repair. Managed to get a free rental car after first week, after throwing a fit to Corporate customer service. Guess that is one way to ensure buyers get the extended warranty. Not sure Id buy another one.

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  Defective Rear Differential Design - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Joetta Campbell - February 15 - 3:31 pm

  Ive had the rear differential/pinion gears replaced 3 times, but the loud whine from the grinding rear-end gears continues to return after a few thousand miles. I was finally told that this is normal, and wouldnt pose a problem, but the grinding noise has now gotten too loud to drown out with the radio. My research into this problem has led me to discover its a very common problem due to Fords design flaw (the soft aluminum housing expands at a different rate than metal gear assembly). Ive also learned the rear end will eventually seize just pray its not on the expressway with your children on board. After 1yr/12000 miles, youre stuck paying >1.5K for another temporary fix. Too bad enforcement of consumer protection was gutted in 2001, as the well-known rear-end design problem of these vehicles has gone unchecked. Ford should be forced to recall these vehicles, since it is a safety issue when the rear-end seizes up eventually.

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  JUST LOVE MY EXPLORER! - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By NMCCOMB - February 13 - 2:00 am

  OWNING THE EB EXPLORER HAS BEEN THE GREATEST EXPERIENCE IN VEHICLE OWNERSHIP. IT PRACTICALLY SPEAKS TO ME! I CAN BUS CHILDREN TO SCHOOL THEN LOAD UP THE BACK WITH FURNITURE, CHEERLEADING AND FOOTBALL EQUIPMENT. THE VERSITILITY OF THE VEHICLE IS INCREDIBLE. I COULD NEVER OWN A CAR AGAIN. MY NEXT VEHICLE WILL BE AN EB EXPLORER.

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  Not enough room - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By pyano - February 13 - 2:00 am

  I bought a used Ford Explorer XLT with 43000 miles to haul around stuff every once in a while. The only problem is that the rear window is not 4 feet wide so you cant haul plywood or sheetrock inside the car!! Some other SUVS in the same class like Isuzu Trooper you CAN haul plywood inside. Its a fun car but not big enough if youre looking to move stuff around for home projects.

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  Great car, bad seat design - 2008 Ford Explorer
  By Pd - February 12 - 7:33 am

  Drivers over 6 3" should consider another vehicle. The power seats tilt back when they go down so you sit leaning back which is very uncomfortable. With the moon roof you loose about 1.5" of headroom so tall people will have their head rubbing the roof. I thought I could live with this but the car must go!

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  Great Car - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By William - February 10 - 6:00 pm

  I never owned a Ford before but I decided to give a try. I bought in 2006 with 124.000 km on it and have had no problems whatsoever. Ive put around 55.000 km on it and still havent change anything, just oil and the belt tensioner. I like the car, comfort and I wish it would be better gas saver, but it is a SUV. I am thinking about getting a newer one.

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  Ford tough - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Satified - February 8 - 10:00 am

  Only problem I have had is with one of the passenger power window mechanisms. The warranty took care of it.

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  Wont buy another Ford - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By B - February 7 - 10:54 pm

  We are a Ford family...have 4 of them. My next vehicle will not be a Ford. I have had nothing but one problem after another with my Explorer from day one it seems. Blinkers and tail lights have gone out repeatedly and had to be replaced, dealership would have done it at no charge if I wanted to leave it all day to have a bulb replaced. Gear shift locks up, take it in and they arent sure how to fix it even though its a known issue with Explorers. Now my radiator is leaking. Glad its under warranty, thinking I ought to just trade it in before that changes or it will cost me a fortune.

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  Explorers are great. - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By ManyExplorers - February 7 - 8:22 pm

  This is my third Ford Explorer, and obviously I have had good luck with them if I keep coming back to the same vehicle. It is also my first V8 model, and I do like it quite a bit over the previous V6 models. Highway mileage is actually better than smaller motor, although city driving is worse. (V6 got 12 city, 16 highway...V8 gets about 10 city, 19-20 highway) Extremely reliable, although it has been my experience that Explorers chew the tires off of themselves prematurely. Do not buy high mileage tires, Explorer suspensions will "cup" the tires long before they are worn out. Overall safe, comfortable, reliable vehicle.