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What year did the Ford Explorer get bigger?

The Ford Explorer first became noticeably bigger with the 2011 model year, when Ford redesigned it onto a unibody platform and increased its wheelbase and interior space. A later refresh in 2020 kept the larger footprint and added modern updates.

The turning point: 2011 redesign

In 2011, Ford moved the Explorer from a traditional body-on-frame SUV to a unibody crossover architecture derived from the Ford Edge. This shift produced a bigger overall footprint and a roomier interior, particularly for the third row.

Why the change mattered

The switch to a unibody chassis and updated suspension gave the Explorer a more car-like ride, expanded cargo capacity, and improved passenger space. It positioned the model more as a family-oriented three-row crossover than a rugged traditional SUV.

The following points summarize the core aspects of the 2011 redesign:

Platform change: from body-on-frame to unibody

Longer wheelbase and overall length, boosting interior space

Expanded third-row seating and cargo capacity

Updated suspension and handling for a smoother ride

These changes marked a clear step up in size for the Explorer compared with earlier generations.

Maintained size growth in the 2020 refresh

The 2020 model year kept the Explorer’s larger footprint established in 2011, while updating styling, powertrains, and technology to modern standards. The overall dimensions remained noticeably larger than pre-2011 Explorers, reinforcing its role as a family-friendly three-row SUV.

What changed in 2020

The 2020 refresh brought redesigned exterior styling, updated interior materials and technology, and new powertrain options, including a more efficient turbocharged setup and a hybrid option in later years. These updates helped maintain the larger, more practical interior while improving efficiency and tech features.

These changes ensured the Explorer stayed competitive in the growing mid-size SUV market by emphasizing interior space and modern conveniences.

Bottom line

In short, the Ford Explorer’s notable size increase began with the 2011 redesign, which moved it to a unibody platform and expanded its footprint. That larger size has persisted through the 2020 refresh and into the current generation, with ongoing updates improving interior space and technology. Early models before 2011 were smaller and more traditional in their dimensions.

Summary

The Explorer’s most significant growth happened in 2011, when Ford transitioned to a unibody crossover and expanded the vehicle’s interior and overall footprint. The 2020 refresh preserved that larger size while adding modern features, keeping the model competitive as a spacious three-row SUV. Overall, the question of “when did it get bigger?” points to 2011 as the pivotal year, with continued sizing influence into the present generation.

What year Explorer to stay away from?

You should stay away from the 2002–2006 Ford Explorer models due to frequent and expensive transmission problems, engine issues, and suspension wear. Other years to avoid include the 2016 and 2020 models, which have reported issues with electrical systems, faulty parts, and transmission problems.
Model years to avoid

2002–2006: The third generation is widely considered the least reliable due to significant transmission failures, engine problems (like timing chain issues), and premature suspension wear. The 2002 model year has the highest number of overall complaints, primarily for its transmission.
2016: This model year has been criticized for issues like faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, as well as poor rearward visibility and lack of interior storage.
2020: As the first year of the current design, the 2020 model is noted for a high number of recalls, particularly involving transmission problems that can cause stalling and power loss.

Other years with potential issues

2011–2019: This generation has drawn complaints about electrical system problems.
Early 2021 models: Some 2021 models built in late 2020 and early 2021 had issues, though later models made in late 2021 are generally considered more reliable.

When did Explorer change body style?

The Ford Explorer has had several major body style changes: in 2002 (a significant redesign from the previous generation), in 2006 (another complete redesign with a new unibody construction), in 2011 (a switch to a car-based, front-wheel-drive platform), and in 2020 (a return to a rear-wheel-drive-based platform with a new design). A refresh with updated exterior styling, interior, and technology was also released for the 2025 model year.

Major body style change years

2002: The third generation was a complete redesign with a taller shape, longer wheelbase, and the introduction of an optional third-row seat.
2006: The fourth generation was a complete redesign featuring a more refined body and a switch to a unibody construction.
2011: This generation marked a major shift to a car-based, front-wheel-drive unibody platform, moving away from the previous truck-based, body-on-frame design.
2020: The sixth generation was a major redesign that returned to a rear-wheel-drive-based platform.
2025: A refresh was released for the 2025 model year, which included revised exterior and interior styling and updated technology.

What is the best year of the Ford Explorer?

The best Ford Explorer years are often cited as the 2009-2010 models for their strong reliability and body-on-frame build, or 2011-2019 models (especially 2018-2019) for their major redesign to a unibody chassis that improved fuel economy and refined the driving experience. For the latest tech, the 2023-2024 models are good choices, offering powerful engines and advanced features. The least reliable years to avoid are generally the 2002-2006 models due to common transmission and engine issues.

This video discusses the best and worst Ford Explorer model years and their common problems: 59scar PROblemsYouTube · Nov 2, 2025
Reliable options to consider

2009-2010: Part of the fourth generation, these models are known for strong reliability, a body-on-frame build, and good towing capacity.
2011-2019: The fifth generation introduced a significant redesign with a unibody chassis, leading to better fuel economy and fewer transmission issues.
- 2018-2019: As the final years of this generation, they refined the design and added more modern technology and safety features like Adaptive Cruise Control.
2023-2024: These latest models offer the most up-to-date technology, including advanced driver-assist features and powerful engine options.

This video provides a comparison of different Ford Explorer model years: 51sNexologyYouTube · Sep 17, 2025
Years to avoid

2002-2006: This third generation is widely considered the least reliable due to frequent issues with the transmission, engine, electrical system, and suspension.

What is the difference between the 2025 and 2026 Ford Explorer?

The main difference is the addition of the new Tremor off-road trim for 2026, while the 2025 model served as the foundation for the updated design and technology that carries over to 2026. Key changes for 2026 include new colors, some feature adjustments like the removal of standard wireless charging on certain trims, and technology refinements such as software updates and the introduction of advanced driver-assistance features like BlueCruise on some trims.

This video explains the differences between the 2025 and 2026 Ford Explorer models, including the new Tremor trim: 1mCar ConfectionsYouTube · Oct 25, 2025
What's new for 2026

Tremor Off-Road Trim: A new trim with a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, a limited-slip rear differential, and skid plates.
Technology Updates: Includes software updates for the infotainment system and new or enhanced driver-assistance features like BlueCruise on select models and improved lane centering.
Minor Exterior and Interior Changes: Subtle updates to grille patterns, wheel designs, and new metallic paint options.
Feature Adjustments: Some 2025 models included a standard wireless charging pad, but it was removed as standard on some 2026 trims.
Trim Options: In the ST trim, a second-row bench seat is now an available option.

What carries over from 2025

Exterior and Interior Design: The refreshed exterior and interior styling introduced for the 2025 model year continue for 2026.
Engine Options: The 2.3-liter EcoBoost and other engine options remain the same, with minor enhancements for 2026.
Infotainment System: The SYNC 4 infotainment system is standard on both models, but the 2026 version includes software updates.
Availability of Captain's Chairs: The option for second-row captain's chairs is available on both models.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.