2002 Ford Explorer

Forget most of what you know about SUVs in general and Ford Explorers in particular. The new 2002 edition is a revolution. Out goes a rustic truck-based people-hauler and in comes the third-generation design that combines the best aspects of a car and a truck in one tidy package. Length and height dimensions are largely unchanged. Expanding track width by 2.5-inches and stretching the wheelbase by 2.0-inches changes the Explorer from a large compact to what many are now calling a midsize SUV. Ground clearance and approach angles are both improved even though Explorer customers are probably the least likely to venture off-road.

New IRS (independent rear suspension) setup improves ride and stability and allows the chassis to be redesigned for better packaging. Note how driveshafts pass through "windows" in frame rails.

Ford's product guru group vice president Richard Parry-Jones is most proud of the Explorer's new independent rear suspension. Replacing the old-fashioned live-axle and leaf-spring arrangement with a frame-mounted differential and unequal-length control arms cleared space for third-row seating, improved rough-pavement cornering stability, and facilitated a more car-like ride. Driveshafts to the rear wheels pass through round windows in the frame rails to optimize packaging and to eliminate the "kick-up" configuration necessary with a live axle. Up front, torsion bars have become coil springs to allow controlled rearward wheel movement over severe bumps. Impacts that would have warranted clenched teeth in the previous model are now absorbed with what feels like the supple strides of a bobcat. Also benefiting ride comfort is a fully boxed frame that Ford says is 3-1/2 times stiffer than the design replaced. Converts from the car world will feel right at home in this truck.

Base engine is a 4.0L SOHC V-6 shown here and comes with either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic.

The major powertrain news is a 240 horsepower SOHC 4.6-liter V-8 in place of the previous 215-horsepower 5.0-liter pushrod V-8 engine and five (versus four) speeds in the automatic transmission. In spite of a weight increase of some 300 pounds, acceleration, fuel economy, and exhaust emission levels are all improved. The standard 4.0-liter SOHC V-6 receives a torque boost (from 240 to 250 lb-ft) thanks to a new composite plastic intake manifold. It's available with automatic and manual transmissions, both of which have five forward speeds. Subtle improvements have also been made in Ford's Control Trac on-demand four-wheel drive system.

Living up to the "Outfitters" theme, 2002 Explorer offers much more utility than the previous model. A much-welcomed feature is the lowered rear lift-glass opening.

The new third-row seat option is a definite competitive advantage over GM's new midsize Chevy TrailBlazer, Olds Bravada, and GMC Envoy SUVs. The combination of a fold-flat design with a lowered rear lift-glass opening enhances all-around utility by one whopping leap. While there is theoretical room in the back row for two adults, kids will be most at home in the peanut gallery. The middle row of seats is also innovative. A double-split arrangement permits folding down three backrests individually for utmost passenger/cargo flexibility.


The new Explorer's modestly updated appearance hides the fact that great strides have been made in performance, utility, and all-around comfort. Four trim levels will be offered?base XLS, XLT, Limited and Eddie Bauer?in a choice of two- or four-wheel drive. MSRPs (including destination charges) range from $24,620 for a 2WD XLS to $34,655 for a 4x4 Eddie Bauer.