2002 Ford Explorer: Road Test
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2002 Ford Explorer ▼
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- MSRP: $24,585 -$34,510
- Invoice: $22,451 -$31,284
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Our road test for the 2002 Ford Explorer includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Ford Explorer from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Ford Explorer, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Ford Explorer help you decide if a 2002 Ford Explorer is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4.7 |
Test V8 Eddie Bauer Explorer 4WD did 0-60 mph in 8.4 sec. Ford says V6 Explorers and Mountaineers do 0-60 in 10.2 sec. In practice, both engines furnish modest acceleration from a stop, but build speed quickly. Surprisingly, no great difference in throttle response between the two in the 40-55-mph range. Towing capacity is 3500 lb; the optional towing package raises it to 5700 lb with the V6, 7300 with the V8.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3.8 |
Extended-use 4WD V8 XLT Explorer averaged 15.1 mpg in mostly highway driving during its 8885-mi. test. A similar example averaged 14.1 with more city driving. Test 4WD V6 Eddie Bauer Explorer averaged 17.1 mpg. Ford recommends regular-grade fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 |
Somewhat trucky, though reasonably compliant and laudably devoid of sloppy motions. Mountaineer's stiffer shock absorbers make it more stable than Explorer on dips and swells, but slightly less absorbent on rough pavement.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.5 |
Capable, but typical of a truck-type SUV, with some body lean in turns and somewhat slow reaction in quick directional changes. Mountaineer has sharper steering feel than Explorer, but both have a relatively compact turning circle for good low-speed maneuverability. In response to the Firestone tire controversy, buyers can choose Michelin or Goodyear tires. We recommend Ford's newly available AdvanceTrac antiskid system. It's designed to apply individual brakes to prevent sideways skids, which can lead to rollovers. Unfortunately, it's unavailable with the V6 engine. Explorer has strong stopping power, though brake-pedal effort slightly high.
QUIETNESS
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4 |
Wind and road noise unobjectionable, and low for an SUV. Engines intrude only under hard throttle, though V8 is quieter than V6.
CONTROLS
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6 |
Bold, clear gauge markings. Most controls are lit and within easy reach, with welcome capability to operate air conditioning in all air distribution modes. Dashboard layout is common to both brands, and cabin materials are of good quality, but Mountaineer's brushed-aluminum-look trim is dressier than Explorer's color-coordinated plastic.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 8 | 6.2 |
Plenty of room on comfortable seats. Available tilt/telescope wheel (standard on Mountaineer), memory seat, and adjustable pedals custom-tailor the driving position. Some testers found that the available running boards hinder egress because they're too narrow to provide a solid step, but wide enough to require stretching over when getting out.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.1 |
Three adults can squeeze across in the 2nd row, where there's generous head room and better knee and foot clearance than in most midsize SUVs. However, seat is divided into three segments, and each can feel narrow and confining. Third-row seat cushion is low to the floor and pancake-flat, but head room is expansive and leg space surprisingly good. Second-row seats tip forward in a single, easy motion, but access to the 3rd row is still for the young and/or limber.
CARGO ROOM
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.7 |
Large hatch glass opens separately and dips low into tailgate for easier loading, though glass releases only via keyfob and lacks its own pulldown handle. Tailgate itself weighty to open or close. Cargo room tight behind the 3rd-row seat, which folds almost flat with the floor for more space, but the process can be awkward. Rear bay is wide and tall.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 4.5 |
Explorer is a competent overall performer with an unmatched array of useful features: available V8 power, 7-passenger seating, adjustable pedals, curtain airbags, and reverse-sensing system. The optional antiskid system is also a plus. Mountaineer's higher sticker price brings more-expressive styling and slightly sharper handling feel, but, in all, Explorer is the better value and earns our Recommended label.
Total Score
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 57 | 58 | 49.5 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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