Ford Explorer

Name: 2026 Ford Explorer
Brand: Ford

CR MPG:

RECALL ALERT: There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

RECALL ALERT: There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Road Test

Predicted Reliability Details

Predicted Owner Satisfaction Details

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Road Test

The popular Explorer got a freshening for 2025 with upgraded cabin fit and finish, a larger infotainment screen and the availability of BlueCruise, Ford's hands-free driving assistance system. The below road test report is mostly based on our findings with a 2020 Ford Explorer XLT AWD.

New Models Predicted Reliability

This Car

100

0 - 100

Ford Explorer

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Safety

CR Safety Verdict: Best

5 / 5

Meets Federal Safety Requirements.
Meets all CR Core Safety Requirements.
Meets all CR Advanced Safety Requirements.

Critical Active Safety Features

AEB-P

Standard

AEB-H

Standard

BSW

Standard

RCTW

Standard

Learn More in CR Safety Guide

Owner Reports

Owner Satisfaction

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2024

2025

Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

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Ford vs. Other New Car Brands

See How All Brands Stack up

Safety

CR Safety Verdict: Best

5 / 5

Meets Federal Safety Requirements.
Meets all CR Core Safety Requirements.
Meets all CR Advanced Safety Requirements.

Critical Active Safety Features

AEB-P

Standard

AEB-H

Standard

BSW

Standard

RCTW

Standard

Learn More in CR Safety Guide

Ford vs. Other New Car Brands

See How All Brands Stack up

Safety

CR Safety Verdict: Best

5 / 5

Meets Federal Safety Requirements.
Meets all CR Core Safety Requirements.
Meets all CR Advanced Safety Requirements.

Critical Active Safety Features

AEB-P

Standard

AEB-H

Standard

BSW

Standard

RCTW

Standard

Learn More in CR Safety Guide

Ford vs. Other New Car Brands

See How All Brands Stack up

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See All Midsized SUVs 3-row Ratings

Features & Specs

4-door SUV

2 front, 3 rear, 2 third

AWD, Rear

2.3-liter 4 turbo (300 hp)
3-liter V6 turbo (400 hp)

10-speed automatic

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Basic 3 years/36,000 miles
Drivetrain 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion 5 years/unlimited miles
Roadside Aid 5 years/60,000 miles
Maintenance NA

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Model History

2020-Present

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. 2026 adds a new Tremor off-road-focused 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.

1995-2001

1995 Redesign Year

The midsized Explorer was introduced in 1991. In our early tests, the 4.0-liter V6 provided leisurely acceleration. Handling was sluggish, and the ride was bumpy on all but the smoothest roads. A 1995 redesign brought a better ride, along with improved handling, braking, and controls. A 5.0-liter V8 was added in 1996, and a more refined SOHC 4.0-liter V6/five-speed automatic combo was introduced for 1997. Front side air bags and a reverse sensing system were added to the options list in 1999..