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Ford Explorer

EPA MPG: 17 mpg
Average Retail Price
$3,100 - $4,600

RECALL ALERT:
There are 14 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Road Test

While the current Explorer is a vast improvement over its predecessor, it competed in a market with many more choices. Still, its steady ride and versatile, well-designed interior made for a well-rounded package. Its main drawbacks were an unrefined V6 engine and unimpressive performance on our off-road course. 

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2002 SUVs Reliability

No Data Available

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
NA
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
NA
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

Ford vs. Other New Car Brands

Ford vs. Other New Car Brands

Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap
NA
IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver
NA
IIHS Side Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash
NA
NHTSA Overall Side-Crash
NA

2002 Midsized SUVs 3-row Ratings

$3,100 - $4,600
economy-icon
EPA MPG 17 mpg
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,350 - $3,750
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,100 - $3,475
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$3,050 - $4,150
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
$5,350 - $6,800
economy-icon
EPA MPG NA
Road test
Reliability
Owner Satisfaction
Features & Specs
Body Style
    2-door SUV
    4-door SUV
Seating
2 front, 3 rear, 2 third
Drive Wheels
4WD, Rear
Engines Available
  • 4-liter V6 (203 hp)
  • 4-liter V6 (210 hp)
  • 4-liter V6 (207 hp)
  • 4.6-liter V8 (239 hp)
Transmissions Available
  • 5-speed manual
  • 5-speed automatic
Warranty
Coverage varies among versions of this vehicle

In most cases, automotive warranties are based on the vehicle identification number (VIN), and the warranty will be valid regardless of ownership. The dealership can tell you exactly how much warranty is left.

Read more about extended warranties
Model History
2020-
Current Generation

The redesigned 2020 Explorer has newfound handling agility and a spacious, quiet cabin, but the driving experience is marred by a clunky transmission, noisy engine, and stiff-edged ride. Most versions use the base 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is energetic but raspy sounding. The transmission has rough shifts, particularly at low speeds. In our tests this combination returned an unimpressive 21 mpg overall. A hybrid was offered through the 2023 model year, but it focused more on power and towing capabilities than fuel economy. The Sync 3 infotainment system is very easy to use. 2025 models are now equipped with Ford's Digital Experience infotainment system, which runs on Android Automotive powered by Google automotive services. The driving position is much improved, but the third-row seat is less roomy now. A power liftgate is standard. Standard through 2024, Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced safety systems included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and blind spot warning. For 2025, ACC and LCA are added as standard features on all trims (included with Ford's Co-Pilot360 Assist+ suite), and BlueCruise is optional on all but the base Active trim. 

2011-2019
2011 Redesign Year
For 2011, the Explorer adopted a car-based platform, resulting in a quiet, steady and absorbent ride, as well as a versatile and well-finished interior. The model also offers a usable third-row seat and generous cargo capacity. Handling is secure but not agile. The optional MyFord Touch control interface is distracting to use. We preferred Ford's SYNC voice-controlled system for Bluetooth hands-free telephony and control over music players like iPods. With a paired phone, SYNC can also call 911 in case of an accident. Adaptive cruise control, collision warning and blind-spot detection are optional.
2006-2010
2006 Redesign Year
The Explorer was redesigned for 2006, bringing revised interior and exterior styling, as well as some minor control design frustrations. While the ride and handling are improved over previous Explorer models, agility is still somewhat lacking and the ride is stiff. Further, noise suppression, and interior fit and finish also leave something to be desired. However, on the plus side, the interior is roomy and flexible, adjustable pedals can be had, towing capability is strong, and side-curtain airbags are standard. If you're looking for quiet, the V8-powered Eddie Bauer model is decidedly quieter and more sonorously pleasing than the boisterous V6-powered Explorer XLT.
2002-2005
2002 Redesign Year
Lauded for its steady ride and versatile, well-designed interior, the 2002 Ford Explorer is a well-rounded package. Its main drawbacks are an unrefined V6 engine and unimpressive performance on our off-road course. However, this version of the Explorer features a highly versatile interior package and stability control is a standard feature. Storage is more than ample, ingress and egress are easy and the rear seat is comfortable for three adults. The third row is best left to children though, as legroom is cramped and the seat is difficult to access.