Explorers are easy to enter and depart from, due to a relatively low step-in height. Head room is generous all around. Rear leg space is adequate. There's plenty of space for three abreast in the back of a 4-door. Split front seat backs fold flat to create a long load floor that suffers little intrusion from the rear wheels. There's no spare tire in the way of cargo, either. Controls are simple, analog gauges clearly legible; visibility fine through deep side and rear windows. Acceleration is adequate from the ohv V6 engine, but it is sluggish and rough when first stomping the pedal and averaged a low 15.9 mpg. Eight-cylinder engines provide outstanding acceleration, and equally depressing fuel economy. The ohc V6 is probably the best option. It offers ample acceleration and averaged 20.4 mpg. Though smoother and quieter than the ohv unit, the ohc V6 engine feels a little rough and sounds gruff at low speeds. The automatic transmission responds neatly, and shifts nearly flawlessly--quick and unobtrusive. The relatively long, wide stance gives either Explorer reasonable stability in turns, though you get a choppy ride from the shorter-wheelbase 3-door. Steering precisely, cornering confidently, an Explorer suffers less body lean than Chevrolet's Blazer.

Value for the Money
Not cheap, an Explorer offers the utility of a minivan and the hauling power of a truck. If you're a likely prospect for a smaller sport utility, best not to buy until you've test-driven Ford's compact. But try a Chevy Blazer and Jeep Grand Cherokee, too. We do like the added versatility of the Sport Trac's crew cab design.