2000 Ford Explorer Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　For the 2000 Ford Explorer, a color-keyed, two-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel (with auxiliary audio, climate and speed control) is now standard on Eddie Bauer models. XLT Sport/Eddie Bauer/Limited models with 5.0-liter V8s receive a trailer-towing package as standard equipment. The XL is available only for fleet sales, and the XLS replaces the XL Appearance as the base retail model.

　　

zzdcar says

　　In spite of its ubiquity, the dated 2000 Ford Explorer can't compete with the other excellent midsize SUVs available.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2000 Ford Explorer XLT 4dr SUV 4WD 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

　　$234/mo  for Explorer XLT

　　Explorer XLT

　　XLT 4dr SUV 4WD (Most Popular) - N/A MSRPXLT 4dr SUV - N/A MSRPXLT 4dr SUV AWD - N/A MSRPXLS 4dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRPXLS 4dr SUV - N/A MSRPSport 2dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRPSport 2dr 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 AWD - N/A MSRPLimited 4dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRPLimited 4dr SUV - N/A MSRPXL 4dr SUV 4WD - N/A MSRPXL 4dr SUV - N/A MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　

Vehicle overview

　　Since its introduction in 1990 as a 1991 model, the Ford Explorer has resided at the top of the sport-utility sales heap. This is totally understandable, as the Explorer combines style, comfort and room in a go-anywhere package. The modern-day Country Squire, some have called it, after the segment-leading station wagon of the 1960s. In 1999, Ford sold 428,772 Explorers.

　　The Explorer's sales success, of course, has to do with America's big appetite for SUVs. But it's also a compliment to Ford, as the Explorer gets just about everything right. The interior instills a feeling of quality that is missing from the Chevrolet Blazer. An organically sweeping dashboard houses radio controls that can be operated without a magnifying glass. Materials in the Explorer look and feel rich. Rear-seat comfort surpasses Chevy, and entry/exit is easier than the Jeep Cherokee. Explorers offer more cargo capacity than most rivals do, and five passengers can ride with ease.

　　The Explorer's standard 4.0-liter V6 is the smallest 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. To compensate, Ford also offers an OHV 5.0-liter V8 engine that used to power the Mustang GT. While the acceleration with the 5.0-liter motor is improved over the base V6, it gives up a lot in fuel consumption. Fortunately, Ford introduced an optional SOHC V6 in 1997 that offers nearly as much power as the V8. In addition, this engine costs less and offers greater fuel efficiency. We recommend this powerplant over the other two motor choices due to its great power, decent fuel economy and affordable price.

　　Explorers retain a distinctly trucklike character, which could be a bonus or a demerit. They're tough and solid, 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 over rough pavement, 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 Toyota 4Runner 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 a sport-ute, 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.

　　

2000 Explorer Highlights

Trim: SportXLLimitedXLTEddie BauerXLSSport

　　

Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	18 MPG
Cost to Drive	$208/month
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	35.6 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive