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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  Strike 2 - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By Jeff - September 23 - 9:14 pm

  Started with 4 thousand miles with a noise like a dry speedometer cable that took multiple trips to resolve. During year 4 with around 65K miles I had Transmission issues, intake gasket sucking air, plastic arm rest, and the top problem was replacing front drive bearings, rear axle bearings, front drive all in a failed attempt to get rid of a noise so load even the transmission mechanic thought I should be more worried about it. So for the past 50 thousand miles I have be waiting to see wait is going to fail off so I can repair it.

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  2003 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Explorer in Toronto - September 23 - 3:16 pm

  Well I hope I dont jinx myself with this review but I have to say I have been pretty fortunate with my Explorer. I bought it used in 2006 with 63,000 KMs, one week before the arrival of my son. It was either an SUV or a minivan and quite frankly it was a nobrainer for me since I dont like minivans and they stink in the snow anyway. 2 years later the truck has only given me 1 problem which is I had to replace 3 wheel bearings. Other than that I have had zero issues thankfully. The truck is very comfortable for long drives, the family loves it. I put in a 10" overhead DVD player for the family to watch movies and the kids are happy campers.

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  Handsome SUV - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Roddy - September 22 - 2:39 pm

  I bought my Explorer with 18K miles on it. It is 4x4, Eddie Bauer edition and the v-6. I was sold on it the minute I sat in it. Great interior, very comfortable and well laid out. Im not crazy about the speedometer and tach layout. They sometimes seem to be in a hole, but a minor issue. It rides and drives great and will get 21 mpg or so on the highway. City is about 16. Great factory stereo, great A/C, rides like a Lincoln.

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  1996 Ford explorer 4DR XLT - 1996 Ford Explorer
  By Anthony Arpino - September 22 - 8:45 am

  At present 145000 miles. Replaced lower ball joints 2X under warranty. Replaced with the ball joints that can be lubricated. Gas mileage has improved since increasing tire preasure to 32 to 35 lbs. (18 to 23 miles per gal highway). I wish it was better. Also use a good fuel injector cleaner every 3000 miles. I have serviced the transmission every 12 to 15000 miles & so far no problems. I find it a comfortable & fun vechile to drive. Excellent handling in snow. One other problem was the thermostate. I had to replace it 4 times. If yours needs to be replaced ask for a heavy duty one that is made in the USA. The automatic choke in the winter kills your gas mileage, since it is temperature sensative

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  The best vehicle Ive owned to date!!!!! - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Diznufus - September 21 - 10:00 am

  Hands down the best vehicle Ive owned. And Ive had my fair share. Most currently this Explorer replaced my Jeep Grand Cherokee. I was talking to a fellow coworker and said this has to be the best car Ive owned, the only fault I can find is that when I have the sunroof open and all the windows that the seatbelt for the center seating position in the second row slaps against the seat. Outside of that the Explorer is flawless in my book. By the way, better fuel economy then my 4.7 V-8 Jeep.

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  Explorers allow you truly explore - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By cdf1223 - September 21 - 10:00 am

  This is the first American made car that Ive ever owned, and the first automatic that Ive ever driven. I love this SUV!! Mine has the towing package, and it turns on a dime. The handling is superb, and I love the way it drives. My job requires me to be on the road somewhere new every 3 months, which means Im usually driving for 10- 15 hours at a time. The Explorer is very comfortable, and the interior is well designed. I also love the space and the extra versatility the third row seat gives me. I would definitely purhase this SUV again. Great work!! Gives me faith in American automoblies again!!

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  Ford Centennial Limited Explorer - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By Rse628 - September 21 - 10:00 am

  This is such a beautiful truck!! The comfort level inside is perfect, heated, memory seats, pedals, woodgrain, self tinting rear view mirror, & of course great 3rd seat!!! It seats 7 very comfortably! Very happy with its elegant beauty, & effortless speed, (careful in everyway, of course)! So many admirers, & very proud of it! Thanks Ford for a great 100 year gift!!!

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  Detailed Video Review of this great SUV by owner - 2017 Ford Explorer
  By Foxx Automotive - September 20 - 3:11 pm

  Overall, this is an amazing SUV that offers great value and a compelling set of features. The interior is finished well and is much more refined than my previous 2015 Ford Explorer sport. The ecoboost engine offers plenty of performance and adequate MPGs. To learn more about the Ford Explorer, I encourage you to check out my detailed video review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I-Hb318m89g Im sure youll love it!

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  Expensive repair bills - 2001 Ford Explorer
  By Ed - September 15 - 10:12 pm

  Bought this vehicle used with 46k miles. In four years, drove 65k miles and had some major repair bills. Transmission replaced at 73k after 2-3 shift flare failures. Well known problem to Ford but they did not offer any help with the repair bill. Oil leaks at crankshaft pulley, front and rear differential pinons required seal replacement. Both front stabilizer links broke due to corrosion, known problem in earlier Fords but again no dealer support to replace. Rear end howling developed at 105k miles and required bearing replacements. Pulled a 1000lb utility trailer a few times so no major loads hauled. Overall definitely poor quality vehicle. Never again will I own a Ford.

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  Great Options, Poor Mechanics - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By pshaver - September 15 - 8:55 pm

  Ive had my Eddie Bauer Explorer for a few years now, and it definitely has its high points. The features and comfort of the interior are great. There is adequate room for adults in the second row. The V-6 model pulls my 4,200lb boat/trailer combo pretty well (though I had to add a class IV hitch). My only complaint is the reliability. I never buy extended warranties, but I did on this vehicle (luckily). Ive put only 12000 miles on this truck, and replaced the differential, axle seal, transmission cooler, cruise control servo, oil pan gasket, and rear main seal (all between 34000 and 36000 miles). Many of these failed prior to ever towing, so I cant blame that.