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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  Not Bad - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Doug in Chicago - August 27 - 2:26 am

  All in all has been good vehicle. Early rash of irritating recall items. Ride is stiff and truck like. Engine is plenty powerful (V-6) with good acceleration and passing. Good choice but not if your looking for smooth ride.

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  Never Again! - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By K.hashad it! - August 26 - 2:00 am

  Once heard that Ford stands for Fix Or Repair Daily. Now I believe it. I have just over 40,000 miles on my car, and have just been told that I need $2000 engine repair. With the innumerable recalls, the constantly broken power locks, the ride that feels like they left the shocks off, the horrible gas mileage, the noisy engine, company unresponsive to complaints/concerns...I could go on. You get the idea. Ill never patronize Ford again.

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  good not great - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By fordfan - August 21 - 2:10 am

  Compared to our 99, it seems Ford had to change some things just for the sake of change. Whats improved: very quiet, great ride, all seats very comfortable, dual zone A/C, reclining 2nd row seat, rear HVAC controls. Should have been left as they were: door pulls, memory seat and heated seat controls (now on the console and not convenient), 2nd row headrest non- adjustable and non-removable(interferes with child seat), side mirrors (clunky looking and do not have full range of travel), console shifter (Id rather use the space for storage), dash design. Some complaints here about dash reflections with the tan interior. This is easily solved with a dark color dash cover.

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  Pay the Price for High Mileage - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By jm - August 20 - 6:00 pm

  Have put on 35K/year but at a price. First rear tie rods, then transmission, then rear wheel bearing, then front wheel bearing, then rear end, then emergency brake 2 times and now at 174K the rear end needs to be replaced (again) along with the rear springs. This is from the same company that makes the Crown VIC. 200K and going strong. My expecatations were too high for this vechile. When it was brought for major failure the dealership didnt bother to do any diagnostic work. Just replaced it. Now based upon what i have read here. I can see why!

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  What was Ford thinking? - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By NicoleN - August 20 - 11:07 am

  Bought this car used with 125k miles on it. Within a year my transfer case was shot and I needed a new one. Ive replaced my brakes multiple times and have only had it 3 years. My muffler got very loud and when I had it fixed the mechanic told me that for the 97 they completely changed the muffler and then changed it back in 98 because they probably figured out it was bad news. Last but not least, my timing chain just blew and when the mechanic looked at it, he said What the hell was Ford thinking when they did this? Theres 4 chains that need to be replaced and you have to remove the motor to change them because they are all over. I dont wish this on anyone.

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  What a mistake...... - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By jusmc - August 20 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my Sport in the fall of 1999. I was happy at first but oh how things have changed. The gas mileage is horraid, all the recalls form the tires to the problem with the windshield wiper/turn signal electric box (3 times there) and then the problems with the ride quality. When taking turns it feels as if im going to lose control of the car and tumble over making me feel unsafe. And now that I have gotten to over 40,000 miles the engine is giving me problems. The only good thing about buying a Ford is Ford Credit, other than tht I will never buy a Ford again. It seems all the old sayings are true ...

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  Completely Satisfied - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By billux - August 20 - 2:00 am

  I wrote an excellent review of this vehicle, but because of Edmunds limit of 700 characters, you wont get half of the valuable info that I wrote about this vehicle!! The 4.6 L V/8 is _. The 4WD system works _. Stability is_ as are the brakes, even while trailering. The 290 watt sound system on the EB version is __! I opted for the 5 passenger version which has __ cargo space. I just wish Ford had offered a __option on the EB as they now do on the new Lincoln Aviator. Maybe some day! Ive been following all the strange problems that folks have experienced with the new version Explorers in the Town Hall chats. Lets hear from you on this.

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  Third Explorer - 2008 Ford Explorer
  By J D - August 19 - 8:05 pm

  Each of my Explorers I have purchased new. 1994,2003,2008 and each have been much improved from the previous. I still own the 2003. The 08 is definitely a flagship, very comfortable, some cheap shortcuts though have me disappointed. The chrome clad wheels, I didnt realized till purchased but come on Ford this are very cheesy. Each one of my previous Explorers all top of the line have had solid chrome or aluminum wheels. If I would have realized this I probably would not have bought it. Another disappointment is the cheap interior. For 42000 it should be plush. But overall the ride is great and seats comfortable, plenty of power with the V8. I like the new one more everyday.

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  Not to my expectations - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By mosinoi - August 12 - 9:27 am

  I have a 2002 Explorer, which I bought in 2001, when the new line first came out. Transmission was bad from the time I took it off the lot, brand new. The dealer could not fix it, and last year 166,000 miles later I put in a new transmission. I also have the "door ajar" light problem, even though the door is closed. The drivers rear wheel bearing broke about three years ago, now the passengers side broke, too, at 192,000. I guess for the mileage it has it has served me pretty well. But I was expecting to get a lot more from this care for the price I paid ($32,000). I would not buy a Ford car again, thats for sure. Ill go with the German imports.

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  Ford Explorer XLT 03 - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By dcbrat - August 10 - 10:00 am

  Noticed fluid leak after one month of driving, turned out to be the rack and pinion. Part has to be ordered/return to shop to replace. They said it was a human error upon assembly and this happens. I hope this isnt going to be a lemon.