2003 Ford Explorer: Road Test
Archived Review
2003 Ford Explorer ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $26,285 -$37,000
- Invoice: $23,924 -$33,460
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Ford Explorer
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2003 Ford Explorer includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Ford Explorer from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Ford Explorer, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Ford Explorer help you decide if a 2003 Ford Explorer is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4.9 |
Test V8 Eddie Bauer 4WD did 0-60 mph in 8.4 sec; expect the same for a V8 AWD Mountaineer. Ford says V6 Explorers and Mountaineers do 0-60 in 10.2 sec. In practice, both V6 and V8 furnish modest acceleration from a stop, but build speed quickly. Surprisingly, no great difference in throttle response between the two engines in the 40-55-mph range. Towing capacity is 3280 lb; the optional towing package raises it to 5400 lb with the V6, 7160 with the V8.
FUEL ECONOMY
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3.7 |
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. Expect Mountaineer to mirror these numbers. Ford and Mercury recommend regular-grade fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 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 truck-type SUVs, some body lean in turns and, compared to a car, 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. Only V8 Explorers are available with Ford's AdvanceTrac antiskid system, a laudable feature designed to apply individual brakes to prevent sideways skids, which can lead to rollovers. Explorer and Mountaineer have strong stopping power, though brake-pedal effort slightly high.
QUIETNESS
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4.1 |
Wind and road noise unobjectionable, and low for an SUV. Engines intrude only under full throttle, though V8 is quieter than V6.
CONTROLS
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.1 |
Bold, clear gauge markings. Most controls illuminated and within easy reach, with welcome capability to operate air conditioning in all air-distribution modes. Dashboard layout shared with Mountaineer, and cabin materials are of good quality, but the Mercury'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 | 6.3 |
Plenty of room on comfortable seats. Standard tilt steering wheel and available memory seat help custom-tailor the driving position. Adjustable pedals optional on Explorer and standard on Mountaineer help shorter drivers sit farther from the steering-wheel airbag. Outward visibility good, though the available rear-obstacle-detection system adds a measure of safety when backing up. Available running boards too narrow to provide a solid step when exiting the vehicle, but wide enough to require stretching over.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
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 | 7.8 |
Large hatch glass opens separately, dips low into tailgate for easier loading. But glass releases only via keyfob, lacks its own pulldown handle. Tailgate itself weighty to open or close. Cargo room tight behind the 3rd-row seat. Third-row folds almost flat with the floor for more space, but process can be awkward. Rear bay is wide, tall.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 5 |
Explorer is a more-than-competent overall performer with an unmatched array of useful features: available V8 power, 7-passenger seating, adjustable pedals, curtain airbags, DVD entertainment, rear-obstacle detection, and antiskid system. Mountaineer's higher sticker price brings more-expressive styling and slightly sharper handling feel, but, in all, Explorer is the better value.
Total Score
| XLT 4WD, V6 | Limited 4WD, V8 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 57 | 58 | 51.2 |
Total Score: 58
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
