2002 Ford Explorer Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　The 2002 Ford Explorer has been overhauled in an attempt to make it more carlike than ever before. Among the improvements are a 2.5-inch-wider stance and 2-inch-longer wheelbase for improved handling and roominess, a new independent rear suspension that improves ride and handling, while at the same time accommodating an optional third row of seats, larger door openings with a lower step-in height, an optional side curtain airbag system and an optional Reverse Sensing System.

　　

zzdcar says

　　A great truck that suffers a terrible rap. Completely new for 2002, this Ford Explorer shares only its name with its much-maligned predecessor.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2002 Ford Explorer XLS 2WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5M) 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

　　$220/mo  for Explorer XLS

　　Explorer XLS

　　XLS 2WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5M) - $24,585 MSRPXLS 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5M) - $26,465 MSRPXLT 2WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $28,535 MSRPXLT 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) (Most Popular) - $30,500 MSRPEddie Bauer 2WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $32,545 MSRPEddie Bauer 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $34,510 MSRPLimited 2WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $32,545 MSRPLimited 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $34,510 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　

Vehicle overview

　　Ford's Explorer has dominated the SUV market since its introduction in 1990. Designed to appeal to the broadest spectrum of buyers possible, Explorer's proven to be a goldmine for the Blue Oval folks. Still, it was getting a bit long in the tooth during the last couple of years. Thus, a complete redesign for 2002.

　　There are four trim levels available: XLS, XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited. The majority of Explorers sold are XLTs. If you want your Explorer to be as special as possible, step up to the Eddie Bauer or Limited. These models come standard with added luxury feature content like heated leather seats, automatic climate control and an in-dash six-disc CD changer. Standard safety features on all models include ABS with electronic brake distribution and a Securilock passive anti-theft system. Safety options worth considering are side curtain airbags and a Reverse Sensing System.

　　Explorer comes with either a 4.0-liter V6 making 210 horsepower or a new 4.6-liter V8 pumping out 240 ponies. Both engines are mated to a five-speed automatic transmission and the V8 offers copious, refined power delivery, but unimpressive mileage numbers.

　　Explorer has been made over inside and out, and the results are pleasing. Outside, it sports larger, clear lens headlights, integrated bumpers and blacked-out B- and D-pillars, giving it a cleaner look.

　　But the most significant changes are found inside and underneath. An all-new independent rear suspension featuring a unique porthole-in-frame design debuts this year. This setup allows the rear floor to drop 7 inches - thereby making room for an optional third-row seat - while increasing ground clearance to 9.2 inches. Cargo volume is 88 cubic feet with the five-passenger configuration and 81.3 cubes with the third-row seat installed.

　　The all-new suspension also pays off in improved ride and handling characteristics. The Explorer now feels more stable on the road and exhibits flatter cornering capabilities. A 2.5-inch wider stance and 2-inch longer wheelbase improve handling even more, while increasing interior room.

　　Other nifty improvements for 2002 include larger door openings with a lower step-in height for ease of entry and exit, a stiffer body shell and a lower front bumper for better crash compatibility with smaller vehicles. Later in the model year, rollover protection sensors and a new AdvanceTrac traction/stability control system will be available on Explorer.

　　Ford's bestseller may have fallen on hard times with the Firestone tire scandal in 2000, but this year's thorough redesign should go a long way in keeping America's favorite sport-ute at the top of its game.

　　

2002 Explorer Highlights

Trim: XLSXLTLimitedEddie BauerXLS

　　

Base MSRP	$24,585
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	17 MPG
Cost to Drive	$220/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	46.6 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles