A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
3.8/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.5
Comfort & Interior
4.6
Running Costs
2.1
Practicality
4.8
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for an SUV that offers genuine American-style space and comfort? The ford explorer delivers exactly that, providing families with a refreshingly spacious alternative to cramped European seven-seaters. This substantial SUV prioritises passenger accommodation and practicality over fuel efficiency, making it ideal for those who value comfort above running costs.
The Explorer’s standout feature remains its genuine seven-seat capability. Unlike many competitors where the third row feels like an afterthought, the Explorer provides usable space for adults throughout the cabin. The generous dimensions extend to boot capacity, offering impressive storage even with all seats occupied. Smooth V6 engines paired with automatic transmission create a refined driving experience that suits the family-focused character perfectly.
While fuel economy won’t win any awards, the Explorer compensates with impressive build quality and straightforward mechanicals. The high driving position provides excellent visibility, while the comfortable suspension setup makes longer journeys pleasant for all passengers. Interior storage solutions exceed most rivals, with thoughtfully placed compartments throughout the spacious cabin.
For families who regularly carry seven passengers or need maximum cargo space, the Ford Explorer offers compelling practicality. The higher running costs reflect the American approach to motoring, where comfort and space take priority over efficiency. It’s a trade-off that many buyers find worthwhile.
Ford Explorer Performance & Engine Options
Under the bonnet, most Ford Explorer models feature V6 petrol engines providing adequate power for this large SUV. The 3.5 litre naturally aspirated unit delivers smooth acceleration and reasonable refinement. EcoBoost variants add turbocharging for extra performance when needed.
The six speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly in most driving conditions. Four wheel drive comes standard on many variants, providing confidence in poor weather. The suspension setup prioritises comfort over sporty handling, which suits the Explorer’s family focused mission perfectly.
Acceleration feels brisk enough for overtaking, though the Explorer’s substantial weight becomes apparent during spirited driving. The steering provides decent feedback while remaining light enough for easy parking manoeuvres.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
3.5L V6 naturally aspirated
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Power Output
290 bhp
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0-60 mph
8.2 seconds
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MPG Combined
22 mpg
- Boot Space
- 595 litres
- Safety Rating
- 4 stars Euro NCAP
- Seven seats, Four-wheel drive, Automatic transmission
How Comfortable Is the Ford Explorer?
The Ford Explorer excels in passenger accommodation with genuine space for seven adults. The front seats provide excellent support and adjustment range for different driver sizes. Second row passengers enjoy generous legroom and comfortable seating positions.
Third row access proves easier than many competitors thanks to thoughtful seat folding mechanisms. Even adults can travel comfortably in the rearmost seats for shorter journeys. Interior materials feel robust rather than premium, matching the Explorer’s practical character.
Cabin storage includes numerous cupholders, door pockets, and console compartments. The dashboard layout remains logical with clearly marked controls. Noise levels stay reasonable at motorway speeds despite the Explorer’s substantial size.
The explorer excels with exhilarating performance matched by refined comfort, creating a driving experience that exceeds expectations in every way.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Ford Explorer?
Fuel economy represents the Ford Explorer’s weakest area with official figures rarely exceeding 25 mpg. Real world consumption often drops below 20 mpg in mixed driving conditions. The large petrol engines demand premium fuel for optimal performance.
Insurance costs vary depending on engine size and security features fitted. Parts availability can be challenging for imported models, potentially increasing service costs. Annual road tax falls into higher bands due to CO2 emissions and engine displacement.
For budget conscious buyers, exploring car finance options can help spread the purchase cost over manageable monthly payments.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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ford explorer
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Toyota Land Cruiser
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Volkswagen Touareg
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | from £18,000 | £65,000 | £52,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 3.5L V6 290hp | 2.8L Turbo Diesel | 3.0L V6 TDI |
| Power | 290 bhp | 204 bhp | 286 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 8.2 seconds | 10.1 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 22 mpg | 32 mpg | 35 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 595 litres | 621 litres | 810 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Genuine seven seats, American luxury, Spacious interior, High driving position | Superior reliability, Better fuel economy, Strong resale value | Premium interior, Better efficiency, European engineering |
Ford Explorer Practicality & Boot Space
Boot space proves generous even with all seats in use, accommodating family luggage easily. Folding the third row creates a vast loading area suitable for large items. The wide tailgate opening simplifies loading and unloading heavy objects.
Interior storage exceeds most European competitors with multiple compartments throughout the cabin. Door pockets accommodate large bottles while console storage handles smaller items effectively. The deep dashboard storage proves particularly useful for longer journeys.
Used Ford cars like the Explorer offer proven reliability and widespread dealer support. The high driving position provides excellent visibility in traffic conditions.
**Sarah Matthews from Birmingham says:** “We bought our Explorer two years ago and love the space it provides for our large family. The third row actually fits adults comfortably, unlike many seven seaters we tested. Fuel costs are high but the comfort and practicality make it worthwhile for us. The American styling certainly stands out in the school car park too.”
The Ford Explorer offers genuine American SUV experience with impressive space and comfort. Its three row seating accommodates seven passengers properly while providing generous boot capacity. The V6 engines deliver smooth performance with automatic transmission convenience.
Running costs remain the primary concern with high fuel consumption and potential servicing complications. However, families prioritising space and comfort will find the Explorer’s generous proportions hard to match. The distinctive styling and comprehensive equipment add further appeal.
For buyers seeking maximum practicality and willing to accept higher running costs, the Ford Explorer provides a compelling alternative to European seven seaters.