Professional Reviews

• “While it robs storage space, the Explorer's extra seat is more comfortable than the [Dodge] Durango's.” — Popular Mechanics
• “...3.5 times as stiff in torsion... By modern model-upgrade standards, that's a leap of several quanta.” — Car and Driver
• “...new rear suspension also allows engineers to lower the floor by seven inches in the back.” — AutoWeek
• “A unique feature is optional power adjustable brakes and accelerator pedals.” — Canadian Driver
• “Handling and ride quality are improved with a new frame and an independent rear suspension.” — New Car Test Drive
• “...the V6 is fine for around town. But it's a long time passing Peterbilts on a freeway grade.” — Popular Mechanics
• “...same overall length as the previous model, but it sits on a (two-inch) longer wheelbase and a much wider track, making it more stable and more comfortable.” — New Car Test Drive
• “...the rear glass window, cut low for easy rear access, swings up separately from the metal door.” — AutoWeek
• “All new for 2002, the Ford Explorer is better than the previous version in every respect.” — New Car Test Drive
• “Braking. No longer sloppy and vague...” — USA Today
• “... the Ford Explorer is better than the previous version in every respect.” — New Car Test Drive
• “The mud was slick and deep. [But in the] redesigned Ford Explorer... the goo might as well have been asphalt.” — USA Today
• “Performance is quicker with new or improved overhead-cam engines.” — New Car Test Drive
• “Unfortunately, some of the [new for 2002] suspension's benefits are lost by the hard, flat seats.” — Popular Mechanics
• “...the biggest news for the Explorer is the availability of third-row seating, allowing it to carry up to seven passengers.” — New Car Test Drive
• “There's more ground clearance and plenty of new safety features.” — The Car Connection
• “The headliner is a new safety canopy... designed to protect occupants during a rollover in addition to protecting them from a side impact by staying inflated for a much longer period of time.” — New Car Test Drive
• “...larger door openings with a lower step-in height for ease of entry and exit.” — Edmunds.com
• “...Explorer had shed its buckboard behavior." It tamed the wretched path without jostling the occupants.” — USA Today
• “Unfortunately, some of the suspension's benefits are lost by the hard, flat seats.” — Popular Mechanics
• “...designed for greater towing capacities.” — Canadian Driver