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 ford - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By angela obrien - November 22 - 10:00 am

  This is the best vehicle that i ever bought. It is big, comfortable. I love my truck...

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  Great vehicle - 1993 Ford Explorer
  By Katrina woiten - November 20 - 6:47 pm

  Bought this used with 27k on it in 1995, AC compressor died at 60k, no issues with gauges and the radio still worked when I sold it this summer with 106k on it, now with the economy the way it is I wish I had kept it! You cant go wrong finding a used older Explorer. New ones are too big! Lost their nimble driving charecteristics.

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  Will Never buy a Ford again - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Disatisfied Explorer - November 20 - 2:00 am

  I have owned my Explorer for 5 years; it only has 61K miles. In the past year I have spent $4,000 in repair bills that were not covered by warranty They include replacing the following (1) the front drive shaft; (2) the air ride control module, not to mention the 4 times I took it to the dealer because the warning light kept coming back on; (3) a front shock; (4) the O2 sensor; (5) the solenoid; (6) the rear pinion, axle and carrier bearings; and (7) the rear pinion seal,twice. This is worst vehicle I have ever owned!

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  2003 Explorer XLT - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By 03 Exp XLT - November 20 - 2:00 am

  With this SUV, Ford is delivering quality, equal safety scores and better reliability than many "status- seekers" like MB and BMW. The much more realistic cost of ownership puts this vehicle on top with me. Great solidity and quiet ride.

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  Blind Spots - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By S. Jonsson - November 19 - 6:53 am

  Nice smooth ride compared to the 2000 Explorer Eddie Bauer I traded off. This is my third Explorer and they keep getting better.Very sharp body style. Interior dash is laid out nice. Interior door handle is in a awkward spot to get at. The upgraded 18" wheels look sharp but the chrome painted caps are cheap.

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  Good Car - 2014 Ford Explorer
  By Jennifer - November 19 - 2:18 am

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  Nice SUV, Cheesy Interior Changes - 2008 Ford Explorer
  By Petersdraggon - November 17 - 7:24 pm

  Previously owned a 2005. This one has the cheesy chromed instrument cluster/tunnel?),chromed round air vents. I liked the retangular ones better, not gimmicky, but kept with the truck-like theme and feel of the rest of the SUV. I also liked the column mounted shift lever, now in the console it takes up space lever so huge-looks out of place and gets in the way of the controls especially when in park-that was another gimmicky move, form over function, I hate that. New door handles are bulbous. Engine roars-needs insulation but bulletproof. U-Haul still wont rent a trailer to Explorer owners, what a shame. It pulls them great. With that said, it is solid, boxed framed and spacious. Buy it!

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  2016 Ford Explorer Sport 401A - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Mo - November 17 - 10:03 am

  I purchased my Ford Explorer Sport in June 2016 because I travel a lot and needed more space and reliability. As of now, almost Sept Ive put in over 9,000 miles by myself! So I definitely have some input with long hours spent in the vehicle & I LOVE my Explorer. First Id like to start with a couple cons that are high on my list. I hate the pedals! The brake is significantly higher than the gas pedal which makes it very uncomfortable when transitioning to the brake, especially when traveling long distances. The pedals are adjustable but they move simultaneously. My suggestion for future models is that each pedal have separate adjustment capabilities for better comfort. While the leather seats are very stylish they arent the most comfortable. What I do love about the seats is that they offer adjustable lumbar support and after hours spent in the vehicle, the heated seats really comes in handy for any back pain! Youre also able to adjust the height of the seats, which I often have fully extended to compensate for the high brake pedal. The GPS often gives last minute signals which has occasionally caused me to miss turns & exits. Ive noticed with the 2017 model they have changed theyre GPS, offering zoom capabilities which the 2016 does not offer. It would also be great if the vehicle offered different route options such as Google maps, so that you could see the different options on the map prior to choosing. I find myself using both google map from my phone and the vehicles GPS simultaneously to avoid errors or unnecessary routes. Enough with cons... At the end of the day, I couldnt be happier about my purchase! If I had the option to do it again, even if offered the 2017 model at the same price, Id choose the 2016 model I have today. Though the SUV appears smaller than some SUVs on the outside, the inside feels very spacious & overall comfortable. When driving, I literally feel like Im driving a sports car. I handle tight turns and u-turn in this SUV better that I did with my previous sedan car! The ride is very smooth & the blind spot detection is remarkable! Not even after having my Explorer for a full month, I was rear ended... No body damage! The tow package cover took most of the damage and the only thing that needed to be replaced was the lower black portion and exhausted cover due to a few scratches. Im constantly complimented on this vehicle, it really stands out. In my personal opinion the gas mileage is great & it takes me no more to fill the tank than it did my previous car, about $40 total give or take. I almost forgot to mention, the clarity of the front & rear cameras are amazing, better even than some more expensive vehicles Ive been in. I hoped this review helps. I tried to touch on some of the things that I havent seen mentioned quite as much.

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  A Solid Built Vehicle - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By Steve in Houston - November 16 - 11:46 pm

  This is our first SUV after a series of three mini-vans. The Explorer is very well built with no rattles or squeaks. Since it is built on a truck frame, the ride can be a little rough on certain terrain. I really wanted a Tahoe, but the Eddie Bauer Explorer comparably equipped was 10K less. It is a little smaller vehicle, but for 10K it was worth the difference.

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  Great so far, but - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By old grunt - November 16 - 6:00 pm

  A great SUV, best of the three Explorers Ive owned. The one flaw Ive found in the short time that Ive owned it is the placement of the fuel gauge. Its pretty well hidden in the lower left side of the instrumentation group. Pretty difficult to see in the lower recesses of the tach.