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:

• 

  Nice Vehicle - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Bruce Frier - July 27 - 10:56 am

  We have enjoyed this vehicle for over three years. It recently has developed electrical problems which include the "Door Ajar" light coming on when no doors are ajar the anti-theft- alarm going off several times in the day and night for no reason when the car is locked giving us no choice but to leave the car unlocked power windows randomly not working and when a brief stretch of loose gravel caused the Control-Trac to go in to 4-Wheel- Drive-High we had trouble getting it to return to two-wheel drive.

• 

  Proud Explorer Owner - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Edward Costantini - July 27 - 10:00 am

  I still have a 1994 Explorer which I bought new. I now have a 2002 Explorer also.If I get the good service out of my new Explorer that I have gotten out of my 1994 I will be very pleased There is a world difference in smooth riding in my new Explorer.I have 8000 miles on my new Explorer now. But time will tell on quality.I have been to the Ford dealership one time with viberation in the steering colum,and they corected it.So far I like the new vehicle very good.

• 

  No More Explorers For Me - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By Brian - July 27 - 12:42 am

  This was my second Explorer. The first was a sport model and required a new transmission 250 miles beyond the warranty. The second was this 2002 fully loaded Limited V8 4x4 and I purchased the extended warranty. Around 300 miles short of the warranty expiring I had four valve lifters replaced and then a month later I took it in because the water level began to drop for no apparant reason. Cause: a cracked engine block and the whole engine needed to be replaced for $6K if not on warranty. I have driven Fords ever since I first got my license at age 16. My best car ever was a 1970 Mach I Mustang, but I wil never buy another Explorer. In fairness to Ford, my worst car was a Mercedes.

• 

  Still love it - 1991 Ford Explorer
  By Cobrasix - July 23 - 2:26 pm

  I am one of those that will truly mourn the day I have to get rid of my Explorer (though my wife will not). I love the styling. I still love driving it. Perfect size in my opinion. When we drive into Boston, we prefer to take it due to relatively small size, curb hoping ability, age, and slow speed manueverability. I used to do a lot of off road and beach driving with it. Sure, its had its issues. Only 1 transmission rebuild in 320k miles. Original AC compressor is shot, fan motor is intermittent, 2 power windows dead. All in all, better then I would expect a car with 18 years and 320k miles would do. I have newer and nicer cars, but this is still my favorite to drive everyday.

• 

  Perfect EXP - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By D.ARN - July 22 - 3:12 pm

  I love this vehicle! Its 10 years old now and I only have 84000 miles on it! I drove it from MN to CA towing a trailer and it was fine! I never want to give it up! When the rest of my family all has new cars I just want to keep mine. The only thing was the airconditioning needed to be recharged. Its a forever keeper even in this fuel shortage economy.

• 

  Poor Quality and Dealership Service - 2005 Ford Explorer
  By kgkdh - July 21 - 10:13 am

  It is an expensive car and silly us, we expected good quality and service. It is a real shame considering that we owned an Explorer before this car (and many other Ford cars) and trusted the brand and dealership. Not anymore. After owning the new $35K car for only four months, the dimmer switch went bad, smelling of burnt rubber whenever the lights were on. The smell was choking and we couldnt even drive the car. The dealership wouldnt even give us a loaner car during the repair! Now 4 weeks later, the smell in the car is back, and the lights are blinking. They gave us a hard time again about a loaner car. Poor dealership service. Poor reliability. We are very disappointed in Ford

• 

  Great Truck!! Review By Picky Car Buff - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By Gary Marchlewicz - July 21 - 10:00 am

  No problems after 54K miles. Very solid construction. My Chevys never go this long without needing repairs. I have the smaller V6. Pleanty of power, but not a racer. The ride is rough, but Its a truck! The under carriage is looking a little rusty. The paint still looks great. I am 6 4" tall. This truck is a little too cramped for me. My wife and I vacation in it every year anyway. I want to move up to an expedition, but I dont want to give up my perfectly reliable little truck. I had the Firestones replaced with Pirelli Scorpions. Awesome tires! Its only 2 wheel drive. I load up 240 Lbs of sand tubes in the winter . Cuts right through the snow!!

• 

  Good domestic suv - 2003 Ford Explorer
  By john 25 - July 21 - 10:00 am

  I have owned this particular vehicle for only several months, but I am very impressed with the way this vehicle handles and accelerates even though it has the 6 cyl engine. Steering is very good for a "truck", and the brakes are outstanding also. Gas mileage has improved from about 15mpg to between 18 to 20 mpg. On a recent 375 mile trip to maine the seats remained supportive and on center tracking was very good. The optional 3rd row seating stows away very nicely allowing plenty of versatility.

• 

  Still going - 1997 Ford Explorer
  By GREAT CAR - July 19 - 3:05 pm

  I bought my Ford used in 2000, It has never broken down on me never had a major problem. Has been to California at least 10 times, I live in Albuquerque,NM. Besides minor maintance like oil and breaks this car has definitely paid for itself. It still drives daily, has no leaks and power still there like the day I drove it for the first time. 225,000 and counting

• 

  Great Running vehicle - 1998 Ford Explorer
  By Robin - July 14 - 4:18 pm

  We bought used in 2006. It had 75,000 on it. We have not had a problem one with the vehicle. Its very dependable. We have driven 2 or 3 times back and forth from Michigan to Florida and from Florida to Missouri once. We have put tires on it once and replaced rear brakes in 2008. We would definitely buy another Explorer! The rear seats could be a little more comfortable, but other than that - we love it!