Overview
The variety of generations to pick from when buying a new car might be bewildering. The Ford Explorer's interior and exterior features are briefly described for each iteration below. Let's look at it.
First Generation: 1995-2001
The Ford Explorer, which was initially developed to replace the Bronco, debuted with a svelte look, plenty of payload space, and easy handling. For this generation, there were five trim levels: XLS, XLT, XLT Sport, Eddie Bauer, and Limited. Its 160 horsepower was provided by a 4-liter V-6 mated to a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. Fuel efficiency is 18/22 mpg. It has a 60/40 split rear bench, vinyl and cloth upholstery, and seats 5. Two speakers, an AM/FM radio, and remote keyless entry are all examples of technology. Airbags, ABS, and a panic alert are safety features.
Second Generation: 2002-2005
This generation's redesigned frame and independent rear suspension, together with an optional third row that can accommodate seven passengers, improves handling. The same trims are offered as in the previous generation: XLS, XLT, XLT Sport, Eddie Bauer, and Limited. However, it now produces 210 horsepower and achieves 17/21 mpg despite being the same engine. The seats have a 60/40 split rear bench and cupholders in addition to four-way adjustable fabric upholstery. There are four speakers, an AM/FM radio, and a remote keyfob in the technology. ABS, a panic alarm, and airbags are all the same in terms of safety features.
Third Generation: 2006-2010
The Ford Explorer has undergone a redesign for this generation, adding luxuries like a chrome grille, fog lamps on the XLT, and heated memory seats on the Limited. XLS, XLT, XLT Sport, Eddie Bauer, and Limited are the available trims. The same 4-liter V-6 engine with 210 horsepower and 15/21 mpg provides the power. The interior is the same, but the top trim now has additional wood and leather components, and the cargo volume has increased to 45.1 cubic feet. MP3, four speakers, an AM/FM radio, and remote keyless entry are all examples of technology. The safety features are unchanged.
Fourth Generation: 2011-2019
In this generation, more luxury options are now included, ranging from 20-inch wheels, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, and more on the top trim, to 17-inch wheels and MyFord driver technology on the basic trim. In 2011, the first inflatable seat belts for the second row were also fitted. Base, XL, and Limited were the final trim levels. A 3.5-liter V-6 with 290 horsepower and a 2-liter inline-4 with 237 horsepower were also made available. A 6-speed automatic or 6-speed Selectshift transmission is available for both. It comes standard with front-wheel drive and has a 17/25 mpg fuel economy.
The Ford Explorer offers a 6-/40 split rear bench, seating for 7, an 8-way adjustable driver's seat, and leatherette materials all around. 6 speakers, front and back cup holders, 4 power outlets, an AM/FM radio, and SiriusXM. A panic alarm and ABS are safety features.
Fifth Generation: 2020-2023
With rear-wheel drive as the standard and all-wheel drive as an option, this generation was a complete revamp. It offers its first hybrid engine, standard captain's chairs, and 4 alternative powertrain options. Included in the trims are Base, XLT, Limited, ST, and Platinum. The available engines include:
- 2.3-liter turbo 4-cylinder; 300 hp; tows 5,600 lbs; 24 mpg
- 3-liter twin turbo V-6; 365 hp; 5,600 lbs; 20 mpg
- 3-liter twin turbo V-6; 400 hp; 5,600 lbs; 20 mpg
- 3.3-liter V-6 hybrid; 318 hp; 5,600 lbs; 20 mpg
Unless you choose a bench instead of the captain's chairs, there is conventional seating for six people inside. Impressively, the cargo volume is 87.8 cubic feet. An 8-inch touchscreen, SYNC3, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Waze tech, a 6.5-inch driver information display, and a 12.3-inch digital display are some of the technological highlights. Additional security features include pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, automated emergency braking with forward collision warning, and lane keep assist.