What is special about a Ford Explorer?

The Ford Explorer is a long-standing midsize SUV celebrated for its family-friendly versatility, interior space, and a history of police and rental fleet use alongside practical performance.

Origins and impact

From its 1990 introduction as Ford's first modern three-row SUV, the Explorer helped shape consumer demand for practical, family-oriented vehicles. It quickly became one of America's best-selling SUVs and a staple in rental fleets and law enforcement, influencing SUV design and Ford's broader lineup.

Police and fleet roles

One of the Explorer's most notable distinctions is its role as the basis for the Police Interceptor Utility—a purpose-built version tuned for durability, safety, and high-demand police performance. This variant has become a common sight in law enforcement and municipal fleets across the United States, underscoring the platform's trusted reliability and capability.

Design, seating, and capabilities

Across generations, the Explorer has evolved from a rugged, body-on-frame design to a modern unibody crossover that emphasizes interior space and ride comfort while retaining practical seating for families and adventurous buyers. The three-row layout provides flexible seating configurations and ample cargo capacity, with all-wheel drive available for varied weather and terrain.

Powertrains and technology

Throughout its history, the Explorer has offered a range of engines and drivetrains to balance performance, efficiency, and capability. Recent generations have included turbocharged EcoBoost options and a hybrid variant, along with connectivity and safety features designed to meet modern expectations. Buyers can typically expect a mix of efficient daily-driving options and more capable setups for towing and sportier trims.

Here are the notable technology and drivetrain options available across recent models:

• Turbocharged EcoBoost engines (combining efficiency with strong output on select trims)


• Hybrid powertrain offering improved fuel economy while maintaining interior space and towing capability


• All-wheel drive with selectable drive modes for varied conditions


• Advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring


• Modern infotainment with Ford SYNC, smartphone integration, responsive touchscreens, and over-the-air updates on newer models

In sum, these powertrain and technology options let buyers tailor the Explorer to family duty, daily commuting, and light off-road weekends while prioritizing safety and connectivity.

Notable variants and uses

Some Explorer variants have gained fame for specific roles beyond the standard family SUV, highlighting the platform’s adaptability for demanding missions as well as everyday versatility.

• Police Interceptor Utility: a dedicated police version built on the Explorer platform, optimized for durability and patrol duties


• Timberline and other off-road-focused variants: enhanced ground clearance and rugged styling for more capable outdoor use


• ST performance model: a higher-performance version with more power and sporty handling characteristics


• Hybrid Explorer: improved fuel efficiency while maintaining seating and cargo capacity

These variants illustrate how the Explorer serves families, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts, all within a single, adaptable platform.

The Explorer today and what makes it special

Today's Explorer blends spacious interior practicality with modern safety tech, multiple powertrain choices, and a focus on everyday usability. It continues to offer three-row seating, flexible cargo options, and Ford's latest connectivity and driver-assistance features, making it a versatile choice for households, fleets, and adventurers alike.

Summary

The Ford Explorer stands out for its enduring role in redefining the midsize SUV—combining family-friendly space with configurable seating, a broad engine lineup (including EcoBoost and hybrid options), capable towing, and a notable presence in police and rental fleets. Its evolution from a rugged early design to a refined, feature-rich modern crossover reflects Ford's commitment to versatility, safety, and value across generations.

Why is the Ford Explorer so popular?

Why is the Ford Explorer So Popular? The Ford Explorer's popularity can be attributed to several factors that make it a standout choice among SUVs. Known for its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and overall dependability, the Explorer is a favorite among families, adventurers, and everyday drivers.

Why do police choose Ford Explorer?

Police use the Ford Explorer Police Interceptor because it offers a combination of performance, durability, and space needed for police work. The vehicle is specifically designed for law enforcement with features like a reinforced frame, specialized suspension and brakes, and a spacious interior to accommodate officers and all their equipment. Its size and all-wheel drive capability also make it a versatile choice for various patrol duties, from urban areas to rural counties. 
Performance and durability

• Purpose-built design: The Ford Police Interceptor is engineered for the rigors of police work, with a stronger frame, enhanced cooling, and a police-calibrated powertrain. 
• Pursuit-rated: It is built to handle high-speed pursuits, a capability that is crucial for law enforcement officers. 
• Safety ratings: The model is known for its safety, including the ability to withstand a high-speed rear-impact collision. 

Space and comfort

• Room for equipment: The larger interior of the Explorer provides ample space for officers and their equipment, such as laptops, radios, and other gear, which is a key reason for the shift from sedans to SUVs. 
• Officer comfort: Its higher profile and spacious cabin make it more comfortable for officers who may spend long hours in the vehicle. 
• Versatility: The SUV body style is well-suited for accommodating officers of different sizes and is easier to get in and out of. 

Versatility and cost-effectiveness 

• All-wheel drive: Most models come standard with all-wheel drive, making them capable of handling a wide range of road conditions and terrains. 
• Cost savings: Some departments have found the Explorer to be more cost-effective to operate than other vehicles they have used. 
• Hybrid options: The availability of hybrid powertrains can lead to significant fuel savings by reducing engine idling time. 

What are the benefits of the Ford Explorer?

The Ford Explorer excels with advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automated emergency braking. These features seamlessly enhance your awareness and protect you and your passengers.

What are the cons of a Ford Explorer?

Common cons for the Ford Explorer include transmission issues, potential for exhaust fumes in the cabin, inconsistent reliability across model years, and a stiff ride. Other potential drawbacks are a relatively cramped third row for adults, fuel economy that can be lower than expected, and expensive repairs related to transmission or engine problems in certain model years. Some owners have also reported problems with interior electronics and body parts.
 
This video discusses common problems with the 5th generation Ford Explorer: 1:001A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Feb 3, 2023
Mechanical and reliability issues

• Transmission problems: A frequent and significant complaint across many model years, including rough shifting, delayed engagement, and leaks. Some years, like 2002-2006, are particularly known for transmission failures. 
• Engine and exhaust issues: Some models have experienced engine troubles like coolant leaks and turbocharger failures, with some owners reporting exhaust fumes entering the cabin. 
• Mixed reliability: The Explorer has an inconsistent reliability record, with some model years scoring poorly while others do well. This makes predicting the ownership experience difficult without checking a specific year. 
• Higher maintenance costs: Some sources indicate that while the Explorer may break down less than average overall, maintenance costs can be higher than other vehicles in its class. 

Design and comfort issues

• Stiff and noisy ride: Some model years are criticized for a stiff ride and a noisy engine. 
• Cramped third row: The third-row seating can feel cramped for adults. 
• Interior quality: Some reports mention issues with interior fit and finish, such as panel misalignments or premature wear. 

Electrical and other problems

• Infotainment system: The Ford's infotainment system can be prone to glitches, freezes, and inconsistencies.
• Electrical systems: Beyond the infotainment system, owners have reported problems with other electrical components like sensors, power locks, and interior lighting.
• Other issues: Other potential problems include rear wiper issues and faulty latches. 

You can watch this video to see an expert's opinion on the comfort and ride quality of the 2025 Ford Explorer: 1mThe Car Care Nut ReviewsYouTube · Mar 9, 2025