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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  The Dream Machine - 2013 Ford Explorer
  By gman85 - January 27 - 11:03 am

  This is my 4th Explorer Limited in 10 years. Ford has out done themselves with this one. I could not be happier with ride , comfort , performance , and all the new and latest technology. This one rates right up there with the very expensive foreign models. The My Ford Touch is a really addition to the electronics. I highly recommend this vehicle.

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  What about the EcoBoost 4-Cyl? - 2013 Ford Explorer
  By 8aa2ym - January 25 - 1:50 pm

  Im not sure why our FWD base EcoBoost 4-Cyl isnt on the model list... Where Edmunds got the 0-60 in 9.1 seconds also baffles me. Maybe they spun the tires like I sometimes do. Our Explorer has more get-up-and-go than a 2006 Mountaineer with a V8. We love our Explorer. It is nimble, quick, and loves the highway. We get about 30 MPG at 65 MPH, but only about 24 at 80 MPH. This is still much better than our old 1998 V6 Explorer managed (topped out at 18 MPG). We have never had any issues with all of the techy gadgets. (Perhaps I am more capable than the average person.)

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  I love this car - 2013 Ford Explorer
  By deizik - January 24 - 10:07 pm

  I have a 2012 BMW and I find myself driving the Explorer more and more. Its quick, big enough for the kids and all of our stuff, great sound system, etc.

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  Outstanding All Around Vehicle - 2013 Ford Explorer
  By f18aoc - January 23 - 7:33 pm

  Have owned my Explorer for a month now and have logged just over 1,200 miles on it and I can assure you Ford hit a home run with this one. Not a single rattle or squeak, a very solid vehicle. Have not had a single issue with the Sync or the My Ford Touch. Touch screen is very responsive and my iPhone 4S syncs up every time with no call issues. Road noise is only an issue on rougher paved roads or highways when using the Sync during a hands free phone call. However it never overpowers the call. Would appreciate a larger, more powerful engine, however the 3.5 is plenty large enough for everyday driving.

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  A High end SUV - 2013 Ford Explorer
  By power_mkp - December 7 - 12:56 pm

  We just bought the 2013 Explorer Limited and I cannot say enough about this vehicle. The interior is simply beautiful, even compared against the luxury brands of Mercedes, BMW and Lexus. There have been a lot of complaints about the My Ford Touch system, however as long as you load the latest firmware update (via USB), then you will have no problems. Ride quality is very good, although it can feel a little firm with the 20 inch alloys than come standard on the Limited. The cabin is spacious while at the same time feeling very cozy. We have the captain chairs in 2nd row which makes access to the 3rd row much easier. Highly recommended. The 3.5l V6 really packs a punch with good fuel economy.

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  Great SUV - 2000 Ford Explorer
  By edwnek3 - November 10 - 12:42 am

  This is my second Explorer. The first being a 96 Mountaineer. The Explorer 4.0 has much better gas milage the the Mountaineer 5.0.

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  I love my Ford Explorer - 2012 Ford Explorer
  By simsational - November 9 - 6:04 pm

  I fell in love with the new Explorers long before I purchased my new vehicle. Not knowing what new vehicle I wanted to purchase I went directly to the Ford Dealer to test drive the Explorer and I knew this was the vehicle for my family. Its been a year since I purchased the Explorer I continue to fall in love with it. I look forward to driving it each day. If I leave on vacation I cant wait to return to my Explorer. All my friends and family members love it as well especially my 4 year old daughter.

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  moving on up from 81 chevy blazer,first luxury car - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By coloradobell - October 16 - 4:46 pm

  we just brought our explorer from dearship, its only had 58000 mile on the engine. By looking at you would think it just came off the assembly line. We love it. This are first luxury suv in twenty five years of marriage. I am married to retired car parts salesman and he didnt say one word about the cost of parts for explorer. Believe me first time ever!! Every other suv I thought about buying never ending. My husband now refuses to drive the old chevy which we still have.Hes in love with our car. its is gas hog, but after driving uncomfortble suv for nearly 15 years. The trade up was well worth it. Now I know we have dependable car going over colorado winter passes

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  Excellent SUV for family travel - 2002 Ford Explorer
  By skarland - September 23 - 8:47 pm

  This is my first SUV. I bought in 2010 with 96,000 miles. Now it has 125,000 miles. Things I have done: brakes, a set of new tires, regular motorcraft oil change every 3k miles. No major repair. For people complains the transmission problems, its better to customize it with an external ATF filter and extra big ATF cooler. You should check the ATF level regularly and also its temperature (I also add a temp gauge). Because ford put a sealed transmission with this SUV, there is no way for regular person to check the ATF fluid level. With all these done, you wont have a failed transmission. Recently I drove this car from Austin Texas all the way to Buffalo NY, and back to Austin, never failed.

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  2013 Explorer Limited FWD - 2013 Ford Explorer
  By mustangman308 - August 5 - 7:20 am

  Really like the room & Technology of Sync & MyTouch on the controls. I know a lot has been said about Microsoft & MyTouch but its easy and I have not had any problems. It feels like the future and using a new smart phone when playing with the navigation screen. The 3.5 V-6 engine has plenty of power and the cabin is very quite & smooth ride with the 20 inch wheels. Its more than I expected when you compare the price with import luxury models. One Test Drive is all it takes !