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Ford Explorer Review
See also the main fact sheets for the Ford Explorer.
The Ford Explorer got its start in 1990 and is still being produced, making it one of the longer running SUVs on the market today. While the recent automotive trend, particularly in North America, has tended towards building crossover SUVs based on car platforms, the Explorer remains true to its roots. It continues to look and feel more like a truck than a car, but improvements to its suspension and interior have increased its comfort level higher than before. With impressive cargo space, a powerful engine, and good towing capacity, the Explorer aims to appeal to those who want an SUV that feels like an SUV.
High Points
- High safety ratings
- Improved engine and suspension
- Easier to enter and exit the vehicle
- Third row seating
- Good towing capacity
Low Points
- V6 may not be powerful enough for some
- Stiff, uncomfortable seating
- Poor fuel economy
- Styling unexciting
- Ride not built for comfort/luxury like many crossovers
Performance and Handling
Gas Mileage
The gas mileage the Explorer will get depends on its engine and transmission. The city/highway numbers as reported by FuelEconomy.gov are as follows:
Safety
According to the NHTSA, the Explorer got supberb 5-star ratings for all front- and side-impact crash tests. However, in safety tests for rollover, the Explorer performed less impressively, earning 3 of 5 stars.
Reliability and Maintenance
Although Automotive Information Systems reported that the 2002 Explorer had moderate problems with its engine, transmission, and brakes, Ford cleaned up its act and earned a green approval rating in every category from the same organization just a year later, in 2003. Since it was redesigned in 2006, however, reliability data for the newest incarnation of the Explorer is not yet available.
Interior and Comforts
Exterior
Styles and Options
Main Competitors
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Chevrolet TrailBlazer
- Toyota 4Runner
- Nissan Murano
- Honda Pilot
- Volkswagen Touareg
External Links
WikiCars Contributor Favorites
Community Sites
