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Explorer (SUV)

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Explorer (SUV)
NameExplorer
ManufacturerFord Motor Company
Production1990–present
ClassMid-size SUV
LayoutFront-engine, rear-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive
RelatedFord Bronco (sixth generation), Lincoln Aviator

Explorer (SUV). The Ford Explorer is a series of mid-size SUVs manufactured by the Ford Motor Company since the 1990 model year. As one of the most influential vehicles in popularizing the SUV segment in North America, it has been offered in multiple generations, transitioning from a body-on-frame to a unibody architecture. The Explorer has consistently been a top seller for Ford, competing directly with rivals like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Toyota 4Runner.

Overview

The Explorer was introduced for the 1991 model year as a replacement for the Ford Bronco II, quickly becoming a sales phenomenon and a cultural icon of 1990s America. It pioneered the family-oriented, truck-based SUV market, offering seating for up to seven passengers in later generations. The vehicle's design has evolved from a traditional, rugged off-road appearance to a more aerodynamic, car-like crossover SUV profile in its current iteration. Its success cemented Ford's dominance in the SUV and truck markets for decades.

History

Development of the Explorer began in the late 1980s under the codename "UN-46," utilizing the chassis of the Ford Ranger. The first generation debuted at the Chicago Auto Show and went on sale in March 1990 as a 1991 model. A significant event in its history was the Firestone and Ford tire controversy in the early 2000s, which involved tread separation incidents on certain models. The fifth generation, launched for 2011, marked a major shift to a unibody platform shared with the Ford Taurus. For the 2020 model year, a completely redesigned sixth-generation Explorer was unveiled, built on a new rear-wheel drive architecture and assembled at Chicago Assembly Plant.

Design and features

Early Explorers featured a body-on-frame construction, live axle rear suspension, and optional four-wheel drive systems like Control Trac. Interior designs prioritized utility, with features such as optional leather seating and JBL audio systems. The transition to a unibody platform integrated independent rear suspension, improving on-road handling and ride comfort. Modern generations offer advanced technology including the Ford SYNC infotainment system, Co-Pilot360 driver-assist suite, and available twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engines. Off-road capability is emphasized in the Timberline trim, which includes all-terrain tires and upgraded underbody protection.

Models and variants

The Explorer has been offered in numerous trim levels, such as base XL, well-equipped XLT, luxury-oriented Limited, and performance-focused ST. Special editions have included the rugged Eddie Bauer edition and the street-oriented Street. A hybrid variant, the Ford Explorer Hybrid, was introduced. The platform has also spawned several related vehicles, most notably the upscale Lincoln Aviator and the Ford Police Interceptor Utility, which is widely used by law enforcement agencies across the United States. An electric version, the Explorer EV, is sold in Europe but is a distinct model based on the Volkswagen Group's MEB platform.

Sales and reception

The Explorer has been a monumental sales success for Ford, often ranking as the best-selling SUV in the United States throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. It has received awards from publications like MotorTrend and Car and Driver. Critical reception has evolved with its design; early models were praised for their packaging and capability, while later crossover-oriented generations have been lauded for improved fuel economy and refinement. The vehicle has maintained strong sales despite intense competition from the Honda Pilot, Chevrolet Traverse, and Kia Telluride.

Motorsport

The Explorer has participated in various forms of motorsport, primarily in stock and endurance racing categories. Prepared Explorers have competed in the SCCA's Showroom Stock series and in off-road events like the Baja 1000. The Ford Explorer ST has been used as a high-speed pursuit vehicle in publicity runs, highlighting its performance credentials. Furthermore, the Ford Performance division has developed parts and tuning packages for enthusiast owners, connecting the SUV to the brand's racing heritage at events like the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

Category:Ford vehicles Category:Sport utility vehicles Category:Vehicles introduced in 1990