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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  explorer - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By tmg01 - December 3 - 2:00 am

  had a power seat switch that went bad. rear differential wine, both problems under warranty were fixed. i have 47000 miles on it, very reliable so far.

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  298000 - 1992 Ford Explorer
  By worth it - December 1 - 1:59 pm

  i bought my 1992 Explorer 5 years ago with about 150000 miles on it. I bought it for $700. It rode okay and I thought it was worth the try for the money. I now have over 298000 on it and havent had to do anything but change oil, brakes, tires and a tune up. Best buy for the money I have ever bought

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  98 XLT - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Bgriffin - December 1 - 10:00 am

  Very good Power from the DHC V6, good handleing, good highway gas mileage, can use some work on the city mileage. Great room inside, a lot better than the competing GM products. Had some bad brake work done, but another place did them right.

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  Explore the Explorer - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By purplekat02680 - December 1 - 10:00 am

  I am currently driving my second Ford Explorer. I previously owned a 1996 with the same options on it and drove it for a couple of years. I finally decided that the mileage was the only factor keeping me from taking it to college this coming fall. Therefore, I sold it privately for about $8200 with 102,000 miles on it. I absolutely love my new vehicle and will probably always own an Explorer whenever I have a vehicle.

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  Very pleased! - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By jsmith_41 - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Ive only had this vehicle a short time now, Ive traded in my Expedition for it. What a fun car to drive! Its SO smooth! Ive really been enjoying it! It has great pep, design, comfort & options that make it very luxurious. The 3rd row seat is very comfortable & easy to get in/out of, considering the size of the Explorer.

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  Excellent SUV - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Emilee - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Going from a Honda Accord to a Ford Explorer raised some questions from people around me; however, I was and still impressed with how different the Explorers are from a few years ago. I have proven my theory that they were beautiful cars, inside and out, and the gas mileage is not all that bad (excluding uncontrollible rising gas prices). I am really impressed with the whole package and I did not realize that Ford had come such a long way. Having only owned four cars: Nissan Pathfinder, Ford Mustang, Honda Accord, and now a Ford Explorer I have to say that I am completely satisfied. Needless to say, I love my 2004 Ford Explorer Limited.

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  Keep on rolling baby! - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By doratheexplorer - November 28 - 10:53 pm

  212,000 miles. Doesnt leak or burn oil. Just hauled a 4,000 pound trailer from VA to NC at 70 mph with no problems. 4x4 works great. Have had to replace door handles twice, and headlamps finally got so bad I needed new ones. Besides that its been batteries, tires, oil, brakes and a kiss every now and then. I love this truck and will have it till the wheels fall off. But then Ill probably put them back on and just keep rolling baby!

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  Sleek and powerful - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By jrappy87 - November 22 - 7:27 pm

  Overall, I love this car. I love the roar it makes when you floor it! it feels like i have so much power. The AWD is a great feature and is fun too floor it in the snow. The car is so sleek and awesome looking. I have the chrome rims, chrome running board and chrome roof rack. Just watch out when you floor it the MPG goes down a lot! It is fun if you floor it long enough to watch it go through all the gears! There is no winding noise when you get up to 6 RPMS its actually a cool sound like a whistle. Everyone should get this car!

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  2016 Explorer - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Jay Chesley - November 22 - 6:51 pm

  Just purchased a 2016 Explorer and had the following problems within 200 miles and Ford will not repair stating it is normal. 1. Clunk in driveline. 2. Smell of Gas 3. Knock in Engine 3.5 Twin Turbo. 4. Seat covers coming off. 5. Tran slipping

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  Great truck - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By long island guy - November 22 - 10:00 am

  Great ride, good legroom. 4X4 works great in the snow. great fit and finish.