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:

• 

  Wont buy another - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By tt - July 20 - 2:43 am

  This was my first Ford Explorer, 2016 Platinum. I have driven Jeeps and a Tahoe in the past. I am disappointed with this vehicle in that within the first year of purchase under 15,000 miles the transmission went out with a snap ring failure inside the clutch and additional sensor issues. Transmission went out and left me unable to accelerate while driving down a busy highway with kids in the car. It was in the shop over 2 weeks for them taking my car apart trying to figure out how to fix it and get the parts. In addition the headliner was cut too short from the factory and continues to fall down on the passenger side door. We paid the premium price Platinum addition and do not expect to have a headliner that is falling down. Its been to the dealership twice to fix this issue and it is still not resolved. Finally, my tire tread is already worn out and tires need replaced. Really? brand new car, less than a year old, less than 15,000 miles and I need new tires? I drive in town on regular roads. I am assuming the tires from the dealership are crap and Fords taken the cheap tire approach. I will not purchase a Ford Explorer again and will be trading this vehicle in the near future.

• 

  Dangerous vehicle - 2013 Ford Explorer
  By Gary Blakeney - June 16 - 7:53 pm

  Owned this SUV for two years. Was coming thru a toll booth on the Ohio Turnpike. I was just starting to accelerate when at about 15 mph I heard a loud boom and the front passenger side dropped to the ground and pulled me hard to the right. I got out to look and saw the lower control arm broke cleanly in two, which ripped the front axle out of the transmission. This is something that should never happen and I will never buy a Ford again. 36,000 miles and the vehicle has never been in an accident. Im just glad I didnt have my kids with me or was traveling at a higher rate of speed. What a shame.

• 

  Ford Tire Company...Not our problem - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By jim33445 - June 14 - 1:06 pm

  Ford Motor Company has left thousands of customers with vehicles that they do not back, because it is not their problem.

• 

  Piece of junk!!!!!!!! - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By Petty - March 28 - 2:00 am

  The first and LAST time I will ever own a Ford. On average it goes into the shop every 3,000 - 4,000mi. Transmission went bad at 25,000mi, and then two more times after that. Ball joints replaced 15 times, 2 leaf springs broke while driving down the road. Numerous electrical problems. Tailgate doesnt open properly. not enough room to list every problem! NEVER BUY A FORD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have owned 3 Subarus, and I never have to fix a thing.!!!!!!!!!!

• 

  My Back Hurts - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Joe - February 27 - 3:47 am

  The "drivers seat is a nightmare" compared to sitting in my 2010 model. It is comparable to sitting on a wooden box and I am uncomfortable even on short drives. The adjustments do not help. The seat cushion is about 6 inches to short which leaves my legs in the air and puts pressure on my back. I feel discomfort almost immediately. What a shame that somebody thought it was a good idea to ruin the excitement of having a new car. I dont even care about the other options. I cant get past how uncomfortable it is. What a mistake.

• 

  2016 Explorer - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Jay Chesley - November 22 - 6:51 pm

  Just purchased a 2016 Explorer and had the following problems within 200 miles and Ford will not repair stating it is normal. 1. Clunk in driveline. 2. Smell of Gas 3. Knock in Engine 3.5 Twin Turbo. 4. Seat covers coming off. 5. Tran slipping

• 

  Found on Road Dead - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Disgruntled Ford Owner - October 10 - 12:38 am

  I own at 2016 Ford Explorer. I was on my way to Chattanooga, TN last week when the wrench light came on and the SUV lost its ability to travel over 3 miles per hour. It had 4,800 miles on the odometer when this incident occurred. This incident occurred approximately 35 miles from Chattanooga at 1:40 p.m. I called Ford roadside assistance and they are about the most useless group of people on the planet. Making a long story short, it took over 3 1/2 hours to have a service truck dispatched to take me to tow me to the nearest dealer. I arrived at the dealership about 6:50 p.m. The Ford roadside assistance people offered no assistance in helping me to obtain a rental car. Ultimately, I was left stranded at a closed dealership and had to take a $50 cab ride to the airport to rent a car. The problem with the SUV ended up being the throttle plate. It is very troubling to me that Ford is selling an automobile that they know can at any time leave you stranded by the side of an interstate. Even more troubling is the fact that when this happens, you are basically on your own. Ford roadside assistance is a joke and the people that I dealt with could not have cared less about my situation. The National Transportation Safety Administration should require an immediate recall of the 2016 Ford Explorer. If they fail to do so, eventually this problem is going to end in tragedy for someone.

• 

  Not Good - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By Mr G - March 23 - 2:00 am

  Only worse than this vehical is where I bought it. Wayne Ford in NJ. If you dont mind dealing with trans problems out the wazu, it isnt that bad. Handling stinks. No power.

• 

  Brand new car, still no peace of mind - 2016 Ford Explorer
  By Michael P. - December 20 - 5:11 pm

  My second Ford Explorer. We leased a 2014 now we have a 2016. We loved them....up to the point where my wife and 4 year old daughter almost had a horrible accident in traffic during 4th of July. Where to begin...Like most of you, my vehicle, a Ford Explorer exhibited similar issues. Whats different is that my truck is a 2016 with roughly 7400 miles on it. My wife and 4 year are in 4th of July traffic in the Washington DC area on the inside lane. Her exit is coming. So shes about to change lanes when all of a sudden..she has no power to the gas pedal. A wrench light comes on and shes freaking out because traffic was heavy. Several cars narrowly avoid rear ending her. Thankfully she makes it to the shoulder of the road unharmed. Fast forward to today...we finally get our truck back after almost a week. Everyone in the service department nonchalantly brushes aside the fact that lives could have been lost. Now, I have to figure out what to do because wife is so traumatized that she doesnt want to drive, or even step foot in the vehicle anymore for fear of them replacing it with the same part and it happening again. She has contacted her Doctor to help deal with the anxiety she is dealing with. This issue started with the escapes years ago. Obviously they are purposely still using faulty parts. I need help.

• 

  People with hobbies - 2007 Ford Explorer
  By mtb guy - November 7 - 1:56 pm

  Ive had my explorer for about a year now and i still hate it. first off im a mountain biker. When i tried to haul a trailer full of weight weenis CrossCountry mountain bikes the Explored bogged down. also there needs to be some fairly substantial mud flaps on this car. Very disapointing V8. No one can figure out where the inner door handles are and the outside look is about as plain as you can get. this car is unbelievably clumsy and lurpish in real 4 wheelin situations i dont trust it.