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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  Posh and Vroom, Vroom! - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Kristina Fentress - July 6 - 11:59 pm

  I was hesitant about spending $50k on a Ford Explorer. I looked at Lexus and Range Rover pre owned... The 2016 Platinum Ford Explorer blew the other two away in every way. I love my car. My husband has a Land Cruiser Range Rover, mine is much better (electronics, 3 USB ports that charge in 1/2 time, the stereo rocks, the engine, the massaging chairs, I could go on and on).

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  Be Careful Buying 02 Explorer XLS - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By FORGET FORD - July 6 - 12:20 pm

  This vehicle has been nothing but problems for me from day one. I am on the 4th set of hinges for the lift glass, with the first set breaking within a year and being told that I was lucky because it usually breaks the glass. Rear trim piece cracked do to manufacturing flaw and will not be fixed unless I pay. Transmission (XLS) has had problems due to flaw in design and had to have serviced. Luckily, caught problem before I had to replace transmission.

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  The best SUV in America - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By bobby smith - July 1 - 9:12 pm

  I purchased this vehicle with 182,000 miles on it and it has run real good for me. It still doesnt use any oil, and all the power features work 100%. It also does real good on fuel 16-19 city, 21-24+ highway with the sohc v6 engine. The Eddie Bauer leather seats are real comfortable. It has a sharp turning radius, and the 4x4 auto gets great traction.

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  Very Good Explorer - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Ben - July 1 - 8:57 am

  Purchased from a dealership last year, and so far no problems, other than a tire sensor indication. This SUV drives like a dream. No sudden jerking as far as acceleration very smooth ride. I like the fact that its equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission, and a middle console transmission gear shift, a very first for the explorer family. Gas mileage is really good for a normal SUVs I drove up to 25 mpg with a 65- 70 mph speed. Very nice interior! A/C system is really good front and back. Has great exterior lighting, especially the front headlights and fog lights. Definintely recommend the explorer to anyone who desires a SUV. As long as you treat it well, itll drive well.

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  I give! - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Daisee86 - June 30 - 8:16 pm

  So sad. I dreamed of this car for 7 years while I drove beat up car waiting to afford this one. Now I have had every trouble listed on all the complaint websites - back driver window wont roll down (fixed 3 times), stick shift stuck (had to be replaced), radiator leaking (has to be replaced), Transmission problem (not yet diagnosed). At least it is all covered under warranty but what a pain to have to keep taking it in. I am so upside down, I cant trade it. I am likley never to buy a Ford again and I have driven them all my life. No more.

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  They hit it out of the park! - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Jack M - June 30 - 5:00 pm

  The Platinum trim takes an already outstanding SUV well into the luxury class. I had planned to buy a Limited, but decided to go all in for the Platinum since I wanted most of the advanced features anyway. What a nice upgrade! In addition to all of the features, the interior is replete with stitched leather. My other vehicles are Mercedes and BMWs and I have to say that this vehicle experience is on par with those marques. A friend of mine said he preferred this leather to that of his high-end BMW. Multiple valets have favorably compared the vehicle with Range Rovers. Included with the Platinum is the 3.5L Ecoboost engine from the Sport. That engine is smooth and very powerful, almost telepathic. Acceleration is butterly smooth and you get to your desired speed almost as soon as you think of accelerating. I do not understand the other reviews that complain about the seats. My wife and I feel they are quite comfortable. They can even massage the knots out of your back. However, I do wish there were more room for my left foot. The wheel well intrusion may be uncomfortable for some people. I suggest that you evaluate that yourself. Particular likes: - Performance of the 3.5L Ecoboost engine - Styling - Interior treatment - Auto high beams - Adaptive cruise control - Quite ride Dislike: - Limited left foot space for the driver. I am very happy with this vehicle so far. It has far exceeded my expectations.

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  Excellent Vehicle - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By cyprinella - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Would do it all over again. We love this SUV!

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  Explorer: An Andevture in Mediocrity - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By JFraser - June 27 - 12:50 pm

  The unadventurous Ford Explorer is built, drives, and feels like a slug on the road. Off the road it bounds like a kangaroo and fails to grasp the rough terrain. This is a functionally ill equipped and under designed vehicle.

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  Best one yet - 2008 Ford Explorer
  By Ken B - June 27 - 11:42 am

  This is the third Explorer we have owned, beginning in 1993, and by far the best. The ride is great for an SUV and the third seat makes it possible to carry all the grandkids at once. This is the least expensive and best equipped Explorer we have owned. I do wish the gas mileage was better.

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  Built to last - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Rick - June 25 - 5:17 pm

  I bought my truck new in 2006, needing a 4wd family vehicle (traded my 94 Cobra for it). The only problem Ive had is my manual lumbar support breaking twice. The transmission problem everyone is talking about is solved with a simple trip to the dealer to get the transmission reprogrammed. Problem fixed!!! It gets about 14.5 mpg in the city and 21.9 on the hwy at hwy speeds. if you drive aggressively though, expect it to be worse. Weve driven across the country and its very comprortable for me and my family. The V8 is powerful enough to haul a trailer and get into traffic with ease, and sits at 2k rpm on the hwy. Have a light foot in the city and get respective mpg there too.