1997 Ford Explorer Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　The 1997 Ford Explorer receives a few appreciated improvements this year. A new SOHC V6 engine is now available, providing nearly as much power as the 5.0-liter V8. Also new is a five-speed automatic transmission, the first ever offered by an American auto manufacturer, which is standard on V6 models equipped with automatic.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1997 Ford Explorer Sport 2dr SUV and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$203/mo  for Explorer Sport

　　Explorer Sport

　　Sport 2dr SUV (Most Popular) - N/A MSRPSport 2dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRPXLT 4dr SUV - N/A MSRPXLT 4dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRPXLT 4dr SUV AWD - N/A MSRPXL 2dr SUV - N/A MSRPXL 4dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRPXL 2dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRPXL 4dr SUV - N/A MSRPEddie Bauer 4dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRPEddie Bauer 4dr SUV - N/A MSRPEddie Bauer 4dr SUV AWD - N/A MSRPLimited 4dr SUV - N/A MSRPLimited 4dr SUV AWD - N/A MSRPLimited 4dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　

Vehicle overview

　　Since its introduction in 1991, the Ford Explorer has resided at the top of the sport-utility sales heap. With good reason; the Explorer combined style, comfort and room is one go-anywhere package. The modern day Country Squire, some have called it, after the segment leading station wagon of the 1950s.

　　We think that there's a good reason for this. Simply stated, the Explorer is a more refined vehicle than the competition at Jeep and General Motors. The interior instills a feeling of quality that is missing from the Grand Cherokee and the Blazer. An organically sweeping dashboard houses radio controls that can actually be operated without a magnifying glass. Materials look and feel rich. Rear seat comfort surpasses Chevy, and entry/exit is easier than Jeep. Explorers offer more cargo capacity than most rivals, and five passengers can ride with ease. Exterior styling is a subjective matter, but we think that the Explorer is one of the most attractive SUVs on the road.

　　The Explorer's standard 4.0-liter V6 is the puniest engine found in a domestic sport-ute. Acceleration is fine from a standstill, but step on the gas at 50 mph and not much happens. That's not good news when there's a need to pass or merge. Fortunately, Ford has introduced an optional SOHC V6 that offers nearly as much power as the V8, for a lot less money. We recommend this engine over the other two engine choices due to its great power and affordable price.

　　Other changes for 1997 include swapping the four-speed automatic for a new five-speed automatic on V6 models. This five-speed is the first ever developed for an American passenger vehicle. Ford claims that the additional gear, which occurs between the former first and second gears, allows for more precise shifting, allowing the truck to move uphill and off-road more authoritatively. When combined with the optional V6, this should make the Explorer much more fun to drive.

　　Unlike the reworked Chevy Blazer, Explorers retain a distinctly truck-like character, which could be a bonus or a demerit. They're tough and solid, and easy to maneuver, though steering is a little slow and ponderous, and the body leans through tight corners. Braking is excellent, and the suspension has a compliant attitude, but Ford's Explorer can bounce around, making occupants regret the Denver omelet they had for breakfast.

　　Ford has a philosophy of building vehicles that everyone can be happy with. Sure, the Jeep Grand Cherokee feels sportier, and the GMC Jimmy looks cooler, but the Explorer has just the right amount of class and ruggedness to make it America's best-selling off-roader. If you are thinking about buying an SUV, chances are you've already checked out the Explorer. If you haven't, do yourself a favor and find out why there are so many of these trucks on the road.

　　

1997 Explorer Highlights

Trim: SportXLTXLLimitedEddie BauerSport

　　

Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	18 MPG
Cost to Drive	$203/month
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	32.6 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive