2003 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 4x2

Entering the second year of its current iteration, Ford is content to add more content to its perennial best-seller SUV. Although some of the refinements are purely cosmetic, the bulk of the changes are under the skin. Highlights include three newly optional systems: all-wheel-drive, traction control and a DVD-based rear-seat entertainment arrangement.

Redesigned in '02, the Explorer gets a bolder grille, revised door handles and three new colors for '03. Eddie Bauer models are distinguished this year by 17-inch satin-nickel cast-aluminum wheels and P245/65R17 all-terrains.

Visually, the 2003 Explorer carries over the basic design cues that have become almost synonymous with the midsize SUV segment. The existing four-tier, four-door Explorer family carries over with XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited trim levels and reintroduces Sport packages to XLS, XLT and Eddie Bauer models. In addition, a new NBX version adds a Yakima roof rack/cargo basket arrangement. Drivetrain configurations are the existing rear-drive and part-time four-wheel drive and a new-for-'03 full-time all-wheel-drive option. Buyers can still opt for 5- or 7-place seating.


The base engine remains the 210-hp 4.0-liter V-6, which can be paired with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or an optional 5-speed automatic. While owners who intend to hold fast to a light-duty work schedule should find it quite serviceable with either transmission, those planning to really stretch the Explorer's performance envelope should definitely consider the V-8 alternative: Ford's modern 4.6-liter SOHC Triton V-8. Autoshifted only, this all-aluminum motivator tallies up 239 and 282 counts in those two critical output categories.

Standard Eddie Bauer features include a 290-watt premium sound system with 6-disc in-dash CD, electrochromatic mirrors and redundant steering-wheel controls for the audio and climate systems.

Explorer pricing starts at $24,585 for a 2WD XLS. Even in base form, the equipment roster includes air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, cruise control, keyless remote, privacy glass, AM/FM/cassette radio now with standard clock and CD, tilt steering column, variable/intermittent front/rear wipers and a Class II tow hitch, as well as the baseline powertrain. Our travel-mate for this outing was a premium Eddie Bauer model, which (save for minor variations in specific cosmetic trim elements) is mechanically identical and carries the same $32,545 base price tag as an Explorer Limited. At that level, the standard kit expands to include such goodies as leather-trimmed upholstery, dual power front buckets, split/folding rear seatback, 290-watt premium sound system with 6-disc in-dash CD, electrochromatic mirrors and redundant steering-wheel controls for the audio and climate systems. Our tester also had the V-8 engine, running boards, third-row seat, Class III tow hitch, rear climate control air conditioner, reverse-sensing system and side-curtain airbags. Those extras brought its as-tested price to $36,810, including $625 in destination.

Two SOHC engines are available. The base 4.0-liter V-6 produces 210 horsepower, while the new-to-Explorer 4.6-liter Triton V-8 (shown) cranks out 239 ponies.

One of the most notable improvements to the current Explorer is its suspension system. The previous generation's front torsion bars and rear leaf springs were replaced last year by a four-wheel independent A-arm arrangement with a coil/shock combo at each corner. The net result is a vehicle that rides and handles better than any of its predecessors while offering more usable space inside.