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Ford Explorer - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Ford Explorer ranks 22 out of 27 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 51 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Explorer, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Ford Explorer continues to be a solid but unspectacular performer in its class. Thanks to a 2006 redesign, most test drivers say the Explorer rides better and is much quieter inside than previous models. It remains unchanged for 2010.

"Explorer is a highly competent overall performer with an outstanding array of available features," says Consumer Guide. "These include V8 power, seven-passenger seating, and a power-folding 3rd-row seat. Its traditional truck-type design serves trailering needs without giving up much refinement to lighter-duty midsize crossover SUVs." For smoother on-road performance, consider the Toyota Land Cruiser or GMC Acadia.

For 2011, Ford is expected to completely scrap the current model and replace it with an Explorer based on the Explorer America concept, a crossover with a radically different exterior. Be sure to check for current Ford deals that may be available on a new Explorer.

The 2010 Explorer is available in three trims: the base XLT, the Eddie Bauer and the premium Limited.

• "We find the Explorer fully competitive in a tightly contested segment, succeeding as both an excellent machine and a high-value purchase. It's handsome, smooth, quiet, comfortable and competent." -- New Car Test Drive
• "Although the Explorer has plenty of newer competition, both domestic and foreign, few offer the combination of an attractive price, three-row seating, a powerful V8 engine and the Explorer's 7,300-pound tow rating." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "Redesigned for the 2006 model year, we give the Explorer high marks for solid construction, impressive fit and finish, quiet operation, the six-speed automatic transmission that goes with V-8 models, and excellent ride quality that comes in part from its independent rear suspension, still something of a rarity among traditional SUVs." -- Car and Driver
• "Consistently the most popular midsize sport-utility vehicle since its introduction in 1990, the Ford Explorer's sales have been slipping somewhat in recent years as the market shifts toward car-based crossover models. Still, it remains handsomely styled inside and out, and is a solid performer in most respects, with many family-focused features." -- Forbes
• "The 2010 Ford Explorer deserves consideration if you need a traditional midsize SUV with substantial towing and off-roading capabilities. Shoppers looking primarily for a family vehicle with plenty of passenger and cargo space, however, might be better off with a more modern seven-passenger crossover." -- Edmunds

Explorer Performance - 7.8 (Good)

The 2010 Ford Explorer's performance is adequate enough, but it doesn't stand out in comparison to its rivals in a competitive class. However, while the Explorer's on-pavement ride lacks refinement, it's off-road and towing capabilities are excellent. "The Explorer isn't as carlike as a true crossover SUV, yet it does ride and handle well compared to the vehicles in its class," writes Popular Mechanics. "A standout? No. But a capable SUV that can tow a real trailer, that's a definite yes." Read More

Explorer Exterior - 5.7 (Mediocre)

Reviewers have little to say about the 2010 Explorer's exterior, which hasn't changed much since its last redesign and remains rather indistinct. "This SUV thus continues as a cautious, mainstream vehicle, though not a backward one, with risk-free styling," says MSN. Read More

Explorer Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)

The 2010 Explorer's five-seat (seven-seat-optional) quiet, high-quality interior is one of its strengths. "A handsome dash, copious storage, and thoughtful touches like a third-row that folds completely horizontal to keep groceries and supplies from rolling around make the Explorer an appealing family get-about," writes U.S. News. Read More

Explorer Safety - 9.0 (Excellent)

The 2010 Ford Explorer does very well in federal government crash tests, but doesn't do quite as well in insurance industry tests. Read More

Explorer Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Ford Explorer reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Explorer comes equipped with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Read More