In 1991 the Ford Explorer debuted as Ford's first compact SUV, and started the new craze for this type of vehicle. Finally an SUV that could be used as a daily driver for the family, and that could offer 4 wheel drive, and a commanding view of the road. It was offered in both a 2 door, and 4 door version.

The Ford Explorer was offered in three trims; the base "XL", the XLT that threw in power windows, locks, and mirrors along with cruise control and a tilt steering wheel, and the "Eddie Bauer" which offered a stylish two-tone paint scheme, alloy wheels, and a plusher interior (In 1995 Ford Added the luxurious "Limited" package). All came with a 4.0 liter, 155 horse, V6, connected to either 5 speed manual, or four speed automatic transmission.

In it's first year, it placed 3rd in truck sales.....a nifty feat for any vehicle offering in its' first year.

In that same year, Mazda introduced the sister to the Ford Explorer in the form of the "Navajo". Offered only in a 2 door model, and only with 4WD, the Navajo was the twin to the Ford Explorer in just about every way, and sold from 1991-1994. Excluding a unique grill, wheels, and taillights, you would have a hard time telling the two apart.

In 1997, The Ford Explorer regained a twin (which it lost in the form of the Navajo after the 1994 model year), in the new Mercury Mountaineer. The Mountaineer was a loaded Explorer with a V8 engine, and full time all wheel drive, and designed for the "upscale" SUV buyer. In 1998, the Mountaineer did offer 2WD versions with a V6 engine.

In 2000, the "XL" was ditched, and all Explorers rolled of the showroom floor nicely equipped. In 2001 the Explorer did away with any manual transmission option, and replaced the earlier standard V6 engine with a 205hp V6 OHC.

In 2002, everything changed! It still says "Explorer" on the tailgate, but is larger, and now offers a 3rd seat in the rear. A 2 inch increase in the wheel base, a 2.5 inch wider track, drops the floor 7 inches. Both ride and handling improved. Now, ALL models come standard with ABS, and increase security features.

There is no reason we can see that the Ford Explorer will loose it's best selling SUV tag anytime soon .

Those shopping for a Ford Explorer, may also want to take a look at the Chevrolet Blazer. and the Jeep Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee Models.

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