Utility for the Masses: Everything You Need to Know About the 1991–2010 Ford Explorer
The Blue Oval’s answer to the Jeep Cherokee and Chevrolet S-10 Blazer delivered midsize SUV practically and a wide range of options at a compelling price point.
Noting the success its crosstown rivals were enjoying with their midsized sport utility vehicle offerings, Ford introduced the Explorer in March of 1990 as a 1991 model. Replacing the Bronco II in the automaker’s lineup, the longer and wider Explorer was an immediate hit with American motorists who were hungry for a sport utility vehicle that combined rugged capability and civil on-road manners in a manageable, family-friendly layout.
0:00 / 0:00
By the end of 1991, Ford was selling nearly 300,000 Explorers a year, a figure that significantly outpaced its rivals from Jeep and Chevrolet. By 1994, it was one of the top 10 bestselling vehicles in the U.S.
Although it has changed significantly in the time since, the first four generations of the Ford Explorer share a common vibe thanks to their rear-wheel-drive-based, body-on-frame construction. But the trucklike architecture isn’t the only reason this SUV became such a ubiquitous sight on America’s roadways.
First-Generation Ford Explorer: 1991–1994
Like the Bronco II it replaced, the first-generation Ford Explorer rode on a platform borrowed from the first-generation Ford Ranger pickup. These mechanical underpinnings provided the Explorer with Ford's Twin I-Beam (2WD) or Twin Traction-Beam (4WD) semi-independent front suspension and a solid-axle leaf-spring rear suspension, along with a recirculating-ball steering system. But the Explorer’s tuning leaned in a softer direction that would appeal to families rather than those looking for a serious off-road machine.
The Explorer also differentiated itself from its predecessor with a focus that prioritized pragmatism over style. It was both longer and wider than the Bronco II, the latter of which allowed for three-passenger rear seating in the five-door Explorer—a body style Ford never offered for the Bronco II. The Bronco II’s swing-away spare tire carrier was also ditched in favor of a mounting location on the undercarriage, a change that made it easier for owners to access the Explorer’s cargo area.
1991–1994 Ford Explorer Body Styles
Like the Bronco II, the first-generation Ford Explorer was offered in a three-door body style. Although it came in the same configuration as the Bronco II, the three-door Explorer rode on a 102.1-inch wheelbase and was 12.6 inches longer than the Bronco II overall, changes that made it a more comfortable and useful SUV. But it was the Explorer’s newly available five-door configuration that really resonated with the motoring public.
While it couldn’t match the off-road maneuverability of the Sport, the five-door Explorer’s wheelbase was 10 inches longer than the three-door’s, which resulted in better ride quality while also providing even more room for passengers and cargo.
1991–1994 Ford Explorer Trim Levels
The first-generation Ford Explorer was initially offered in XL, Sport, XLT, and Eddie Bauer trims. The XL served as the base trim and was outfitted with a black front grille, steel wheels, and basic roster of interior amenities as standard. XLT models featured more brightwork, alloy wheels, and additional creature comforts. Eddie Bauer models, meanwhile, offered premium features like two-tone paint, leather upholstery, and power-adjustable front seats. For three-door models, Ford offered the Explorer Sport trim in lieu of the XLT trim. Sport models featured a black front grille and black lower bodywork as well as alloy wheels.
In 1993, Ford introduced the range-topping Limited trim for the Explorer. Although similar to Eddie Bauer models in terms of equipment, Limited models distinguished themselves from the former with a monochromatic paint scheme as well as model-specific alloy wheels and lower bodywork.
1991–1994 Ford Explorer Engine Options
All first-generation Ford Explorers were equipped with a 4.0-liter OHV V-6. This engine produced 155 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque for the 1991 and 1992 model years. It got a modest power bump for 1993 that elevated the peak horsepower figure to 160, while the torque output remained unchanged.
1991–1994 Ford Explorer Drivetrain Options
A Mazda-sourced five-speed manual gearbox was standard equipment for the first-generation Ford Explorer, while a four-speed automatic was optionally available.
First-generation Ford Explorers sent power exclusively to the rear wheels as standard, and two different styles of part-time four-wheel drive were also on the options list. An electronically controlled two-speed transfer case was standard equipment for 4WD models, but if buyers preferred, a manually shifted transfer case with manual-locking hubs could be specified instead.
1991–1994 Ford Explorer Pricing
The 1991 Ford Explorer carried a base price of $21,586, while the five-door Eddie Bauer model we tested at the time commanded an as-tested sum of $24,564. According to the most recent sales data from CarGurus, a clean example of a first-generation Ford Explorer can now be had for less than $4,000, but outlier time capsules are capable of pushing the price tag north of 10 grand.
Second Generation Ford Explorer: 1995–2001
Eager to capitalize on its runaway hit, Ford introduced the second-generation Explorer for the 1995 model year. Although its chassis was still derived from the Ranger, the second-generation SUV benefited from significant updates that included a new fully independent short-/long-arm front suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and modernized styling inside and out.
1995–2001 Ford Explorer Body Styles
As with the first-generation SUV, the second-generation Ford Explorer was initially offered in three-door and five-door configurations.
In 2001, Ford also introduced the Explorer Sport Trac. Based on the five-door Explorer, the Explorer Sport Trac was effectively a midsized crew-cab pickup with a model-specific 50-inch composite bed. To accommodate the addition of the bed, the Explorer’s wheelbase was extended from 111.6 inches to 125.9 inches.
1995–2001 Ford Explorer Trim Levels
At launch, the second-generation Ford Explorer inherited its trim hierarchy from the first-generation model. XL served as the base trim, XLT continued on as the mainstream offering, while the Eddie Bauer package offered premium accoutrement and the Limited trim sat at the top.
By 1999, all three-door Explorers were marketed as Explorer Sport regardless of trim level. After being offered as an appearance package the year prior, XLS replaced XL as the Explorer’s base trim in 2000.
1995–2001 Ford Explorer Engine Options
Changes under the hood were minimal when the second-generation Ford Explorer made its debut in 1995—the 4.0-liter, 160-hp V-6 remained the lone powerplant on offer. Things didn’t stay that way for long, though: The following year, Ford introduced an optional 5.0-liter OHV V-8 with 210 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque for five-door models. This V-8 would later become optionally available for the Explorer Sport Trac, as well. A third engine option was added to the lineup in 1997 with the introduction of a 205-hp, SOHC version of the 4.0-liter V-6. Offering V-8-rivaling output, the SOHC V-6 became standard equipment for Eddie Bauer and Limited trim Explorers.
1995–2001 Ford Explorer Drivetrain Options
The second-generation SUV was initially offered with either the five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions from the original Explorer.
A five-speed automatic replaced the four-speed ’box on V-6 models in 1997, while V-8 Explorers were outfitted with a heavy-duty 4R70W four-speed automatic transmission. A manual gearbox could not be ordered in combination with the V-8.
All second-generation 4WD Explorers moved to an electronically controlled setup. The V-8-powered Explorers used a full-time all-wheel-drive system with a 40/60 torque distribution split front to rear.
1995–2001 Ford Explorer Pricing
In our initial test of the second-generation Ford Explorer, we noted the SUV’s price had risen roughly 15 percent across the board. Our XLT tester carried a base price of $25,000 and an as-tested sum of $29,320 with extras like leather seats, a CD changer, and a moonroof.
Today, the price differential between a first- and second-generation Explorer has more to do with a given vehicle’s condition and mileage rather than its age and factory options. CarGurus’ sales data indicates second-generation Explorers can be had for anywhere between $3,000 to $6,200, putting them roughly on par with first-generation models.
Third Generation Ford Explorer: 2002–2005
Featuring the Explorer’s first full redesign since its introduction in 1991, the third-generation Explorer saw the SUV move from the Ranger-based underpinnings of previous years to a new purpose-built body-on-frame platform.
The exterior adopted the design language of the recently introduced Ford Expedition, resulting in a blend of familiar Explorer tropes with more contemporary styling. With its wheelbase expanded to 113.7 inches and the live axle replaced by a newly developed independent rear suspension, the revamped Explorer now offered third-row seating and significantly more interior space than its predecessor.
Stronger suspension mounting points allowed the use of softer bushings and springs. Combined with the new independent rear setup, it yielded substantial improvements in ride quality, as well as improved handling.
2002–2005 Ford Explorer Body Styles
While the outgoing three-door Explorer Sport continued to be produced until 2003, all third-generation Explorers utilized a five-door configuration.
2002–2005 Ford Explorer Trim Levels
The third-generation Explorer largely retained the trim nomenclature of the second-generation SUV. XLS represented the base model, the XLT was the primary trim package, and the Eddie Bauer and Limited trims were the top-tier offerings.
In 2003, Ford introduced the off-road-oriented NBX (No Boundaries Experience) trim, which included all-terrain tires, black body cladding, a heavy-duty roof rack, and model-specific interior accents. NBX bowed out of the Explorer lineup after 2004.
2002–2005 Ford Explorer Engine Options
While the 210-hp SOHC V-6 carried over from the previous-generation Explorer, the optional OHV 5.0-liter V-8 was replaced with a 4.6-liter, all-aluminum SOHC V-8 offering 239 hp and 282 lb-ft of torque.
2002–2005 Ford Explorer Drivetrain Options
All third-generation Ford Explorers were outfitted with a five-speed automatic transmission. A more sophisticated Control Trac system was outfitted to four-wheel-drive models to improve the SUV’s surefootedness in rough terrain. In 2003, all-wheel drive became optionally available for all trims aside from NBX.
2002–2005 Ford Explorer Pricing
It likely comes as no surprise the Ford Explorer’s MSRP has steadily risen over time, and the introduction of the third-generation SUV was not an exception to the rule. In 2003, the base XLS trim started at $26,285, while the top-spec Limited AWD elevated that figure to $36,200.
Due to the significant improvements offered by third-generation Explorers—along with the vehicles’ inherently younger age—these tend to command slightly higher sums on the secondhand market compared to their predecessors. CarGurus data shows that, on average, 2002 to 2005 models are selling for between $4,800 and $5,700.
Fourth-Generation Ford Explorer: 2006–2010
Entering production in the summer of 2005 as a 2006 model, the fourth-generation Ford Explorer was an evolutionary progression in terms of exterior styling, but significant changes were afoot beneath the subtly revised sheetmetal.
While a new tailgate and a reworked face comprised the lion’s share of aesthetic tweaks, the interior received an extensive overhaul that made the cabin significantly more refined and modern. A touchscreen infotainment system with Sirius Satellite Radio and DVD-based navigation was now on the options list, the chrome-capped shifter was now floor mounted, and both the design and materials were notably more upscale throughout.
The Explorer’s chassis also improved thanks to a stiffer frame, redesigned upper and lower control arms for the front suspension, and new monotube dampers designed to improve ride quality as well as roadholding. During our first drive of the fourth-generation Explorer, we noted the cabin was significantly quieter than the outgoing Explorer at speed. Ford said, in its testing, the new Explorer had less interior noise than the contemporary Toyota 4Runner, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Chevrolet TrailBlazer.
2006–2010 Ford Explorer Body Styles
Upon its debut, the fourth-generation Ford Explorer was offered solely in a five-door configuration. The second-generation Sport Trac joined the Explorer lineup in 2007. As with its predecessor, the new Sport Trac was effectively a five-door Explorer with a composite bed rather than an enclosed cargo area, a change that necessitated stretching the wheelbase from 113.7 inches to 130.5 inches.
Photo: Bring A Trailer
2006–2010 Ford Explorer Trim Levels
While XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited remained the core trim levels of the fourth-generation Ford Explorer (listed here respectively from base to top-tier), in 2007, Ford also introduced the Ironman package for the standard five-door Explorer in XLT trim and the Adrenaline package for the Explorer Sport Trac.
The Ironman package included a unique front grille, smoked headlights, amber foglights, black fender flares, unique 18-inch wheels, two-tone leather seats, and silver interior accents.
The Sport Trac Adrenaline featured black upper and lower front grilles, smoked headlights, unique front and rear bumpers, integrated running boards, and 20-inch alloy wheels.
2006–2010 Ford Explorer Engine Options
Now generating 210 hp and 254 lb-ft, the 4.0-liter, SOHC V-6 remained the standard powerplant for both the fourth-generation Explorer and second-generation Explorer Sport Trac. Meanwhile, the optional 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 was now outfitted with the same variable cam timing and three-valve cylinder head configuration found in 4.6-liter V-8s used the F-150 pickup and Mustang GT. The revamped engine now produced 292 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a 0–60-mph time of 8.0 seconds.
2006–2010 Ford Explorer Drivetrain Options
The rear-wheel-drive fourth-generation Ford Explorer and second-generation Explorer Sport Trac were equipped with a five-speed automatic transmission as standard. The V-8 models scored a new six-speed automatic. Electronically controlled four-wheel drive remained optionally available.
2006–2010 Ford Explorer Pricing
When new, the base price of a 2006 Ford Explorer ranged from $26,530 for a 2WD model in XLS trim to $35,940 for a V-8-powered 4WD example in Limited trim. According to data from CarGurus, 2006 to 2010 Ford Explorers sold on the secondhand market have fetched between approximately $5,100 and $7,200 in recent months.
1991–2010 Ford Explorer Popularity and Legacy
Ford sold millions of Explorers over the course of the first four generations. Although the body-on-frame era of the Explorer ended with the debut of the fifth-generation’s new unibody platform in 2011, the immense popularity of these trucklike SUVs continues to make them a common sight on American roadways today.
Now in its sixth generation, the Explorer currently rides on a rear-wheel-drive unibody platform that is shared with the Lincoln Aviator.
1991–2010 Ford Explorer Fast Facts
- The first-generation Explorer was a longer and wider replacement for the Bronco II.
- Like the Bronco II, its mechanical underpinnings were largely based on the first-generation Ford Ranger pickup.
- All first-generation Ford Explorers were equipped with a 4.0-liter OHV V-6. A five-speed manual transmission was standard equipment; a four-speed automatic and four-wheel drive were optional.
- The second-generation Explorer debuted in 1995 featuring updated styling, a new fully independent short/long-arm front suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering.
- A 5.0-liter OHV V-8 was added to the options list in 1996 followed by a SOHC V-6 in 1997.
- A five-speed automatic replaced the four-speed transmission on V-6 models in 1997, while V-8 Explorers were outfitted with a heavy-duty 4R70W four-speed automatic transmission. The V-8-powered Explorers utilized a full-time all-wheel-drive system with a 40/60 torque distribution split front to rear.
- In 2001, Ford also introduced the Explorer Sport Trac. Based on the five-door Explorer, the Explorer Sport Trac was effectively a midsized crew-cab pickup with a model-specific 50-inch composite bed.
- Introduced in 2002, the third-generation Explorer saw the SUV move from the Ranger-based underpinnings of previous years to a new purpose-built body-on-frame platform.
- With its wheelbase expanded to 113.7 inches and the live axle replaced by a newly developed independent rear suspension, the third-generation Explorer now offered third-row seating and significantly more interior space than its predecessor.
- While the outgoing three-door Explorer Sport continued to be produced until 2003, all third-generation Explorers used a five-door configuration.
- The 210-hp SOHC V-6 carried over from the previous-generation Explorer, but the optional OHV 5.0-liter V-8 was replaced with a 4.6-liter, all-aluminum SOHC V-8.
- Entering production in the summer of 2005 as a 2006 model, the fourth-generation Ford Explorer was an evolutionary progression in terms of exterior styling but offered significant updates elsewhere.
- The Explorer’s chassis also improved thanks to a stiffer frame, redesigned upper and lower control arms for the front suspension, and new monotube dampers designed to improve ride quality as well as roadholding.
- The fourth-generation Ford Explorer was initially sold only in a five-door configuration, but the second-generation Sport Trac joined the Explorer lineup in 2007.
- The optional 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 was now outfitted with the same variable cam timing and three-valve cylinder head configuration found in 4.6-liter V-8s used the F-150 pickup and Mustang GT, resulting in output figures of 292 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque.
- A five-speed automatic transmission was standard equipment, but V-8 models scored a new six-speed automatic. Electronically controlled four-wheel drive remained optionally available.
- 2010 was the last year of the body-on-frame Ford Explorer, as it would move to a unibody platform for its fifth generation.
