2005 Ford Explorer Full Review - Consumer Guide Automotive

A standard antiskid system and the loss of AWD availability mark 2005 for America's best-selling SUV. Explorer is available with a 3rd-row seat for 7-passenger capacity and comes with a V6 or V8 engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. Available with either engine is rear-wheel drive or Ford's ControlTrac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement and has low-range gearing. All-wheel drive is no longer available. Explorer is among the few midsize SUVs with independent rear suspension. ABS is standard. Newly standard on all Explorers is Ford's AdvanceTrac antiskid system with Roll Stability Control. Roll Stability Control is designed to detect an impending tip and activate the antiskid system to reduce the chances of a rollover. Torso side airbags are unavailable, but the optional head-protecting curtain side airbags cover the 1st and 2nd seating rows and are designed to deploy in side impacts and rollovers. Other available features include 2nd-row bucket seats, rear DVD entertainment, tire-pressure monitor, rear obstacle detection, and power-adjustable pedals. The off-road-oriented NBX model has been dropped. The Lincoln Aviator also shares the basic Explorer/Mountaineer design.

Competition

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, and Toyota 4Runner.

News

The 2006 Explorer gets a facelift and a V8 heart transplant. The same applies to cousin Mercury Mountaineer. The big news is the more-potent, 300-hp 4.6-liter V8 option. It's the same engine available in the sporty Mustang and comes with a new 6-speed automatic transmission. The base V6 and its 5-speed automatic continue. Outside, Explorer gets a deeper grille that looks surprisingly Audi-like, plus revised trim inside and out. More details should be breaking soon, so keep checking back with us.

2005 Ford Explorer Road Test

Pros	Cons

Passenger and cargo room	Fuel economy

Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings

Acceleration

4WD XLT, V6	4WD XLT, V8	4WD Limited, V8	Class Average
4	5	5	4.9

Test V8 Eddie Bauer 4WD did 8.4 sec 0-60 mph. 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. Maximum towing capacity is 7140 lb.

Fuel Economy

4WD XLT, V6	4WD XLT, V8	4WD Limited, V8	Class Average
4	3	3	3.9

Extended-use-test 4WD V8 XLT Explorer averaged 15.1 mpg in mostly highway driving over 8885 miles. Similar examples averaged 13.3-14.1 with more city driving. Test 4WD V6 Eddie Bauer Explorer averaged 17.1 mpg. Mountaineers mirror these numbers. Ford and Mercury recommend regular-grade fuel for both engines.

Ride Quality

4WD XLT, V6	4WD XLT, V8	4WD Limited, V8	Class Average
4	4	4	5.1

Somewhat trucky, though reasonably compliant and 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

4WD XLT, V6	4WD XLT, V8	4WD Limited, V8	Class Average
4	4	4	3.8

Capable and confident overall, with best-in-class steering feel for both Mountaineer and Explorer, and a relatively compact turning circle for good low-speed maneuverability. Still, typical of truck-type SUVs, some body lean in turns and, compared to a car, somewhat slow reaction in quick directional changes. AdvanceTrac antiskid system and Roll Stability Control laudable features designed to help prevent sideways skids and rollovers. Explorer and Mountaineer have strong stopping power, though brake-pedal effort slightly high.

Quietness

4WD XLT, V6	4WD XLT, V8	4WD Limited, V8	Class Average
4	5	5	4.8

Wind noise unobjectionable and low for an SUV. True noise more noticeable but doesn't interfere with normal conversation. Engines intrude only under full throttle, though V8 quieter than V6.

Controls

4WD XLT, V6	4WD XLT, V8	4WD Limited, V8	Class Average
7	7	7	6.3

Bold, clear gauge markings. Most controls illuminated and within easy reach. Dashboard layout shared with Mountaineer, and cabin materials are of good quality, but the Mercury's brushed-aluminum look is dressier than Explorer's color-coordinated plastic.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

4WD XLT, V6	4WD XLT, V8	4WD Limited, V8	Class Average
8	8	8	6.7

Plenty of room on comfortable seats. Standard tilt steering wheel, available memory seat help custom tailor driving position. Available adjustable pedals help shorter drivers sit further from steering-wheel airbag. Outward visibility good, and 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)

4WD XLT, V6	4WD XLT, V8	4WD Limited, V8	Class Average
7	7	7	6.2

Three adults can squeeze across in 2nd row, where there's generous head room and better knee and foot clearance than in most midsize SUVs. However, seat divided into three segments, and each can feel narrow and confining. Third-row seat cushion low to floor and pancake flat, but head room expansive, leg space surprisingly good. Second-row seats tip forward in single, easy motion, but access to 3rd row still for the young and/or limber.

Cargo Room

4WD XLT, V6	4WD XLT, V8	4WD Limited, V8	Class Average
8	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 pull-down handle. Tailgate itself is weighty to open or close. Cargo room tight behind 3rd-row seat. Third row folds almost flat with floor for more space, but process can be awkward. Rear bay is wide, tall.

Value within Class

4WD XLT, V6	4WD XLT, V8	4WD Limited, V8	Class Average
8	7	7	5.6

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 standard antiskid system. Mountaineer's higher sticker price brings more-expressive styling but, in all, Explorer is the better value and a solid Recommended pick.

Total Score

4WD XLT, V6	4WD XLT, V8	4WD Limited, V8	Class Average
58	58	58	55.1

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		37
Average Score		55
High Score		67

2005 Ford Explorer Prices & Equipment

Model Prices

Prices Updated: 05/19/2005

Trim Name	Retail Price	Dealer Invoice	Destination Charge

2WD XLS V6 4-door wagon	$27,165	$24,500	$645

4WD XLS V6 4-door wagon	$29,655	$26,692	$645

2WD XLS Sport V6 4-door wagon	$28,595	$25,759	$645

4WD XLS Sport V6 4-door wagon	$30,845	$27,738	$645

2WD XLT V6 4-door wagon	$30,000	$26,995	$645

2WD XLT V8 4-door wagon	$30,810	$27,708	$645

4WD XLT V6 4-door wagon	$32,250	$28,976	$645

4WD XLT V8 4-door wagon	$33,060	$29,688	$645

2WD XLT Sport V6 4-door wagon	$31,370	$28,201	$645

2WD XLT Sport V8 4-door wagon	$32,175	$28,909	$645

4WD XLT Sport V6 4-door wagon	$33,620	$30,181	$645

4WD XLT Sport V8 4-door wagon	$34,430	$30,894	$645

2WD Eddie Bauer V6 4-door wagon	$34,100	$30,603	$645

2WD Eddie Bauer V8 4-door wagon	$34,910	$31,316	$645

4WD Eddie Bauer V6 4-door wagon	$36,350	$32,584	$645

4WD Eddie Bauer V8 4-door wagon	$37,160	$33,296	$645

2WD Limited V6 4-door wagon	$34,985	$31,382	$645

2WD Limited V8 4-door wagon	$35,795	$32,095	$645

4WD Limited V6 4-door wagon	$37,240	$33,366	$645

4WD Limited V8 4-door wagon	$38,050	$34,080	$645

Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.

NA = price note available, NC = no charge.

Rebates and Incentives

There are no rebates or incentives at this time.

Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.

Standard Equipment

XLS

Powertrain

4.0-liter V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission.

Safety

Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, antiskid system, roll stability control.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, intermittent rear wiper/washer, visor mirrors, map lights, cargo-management system.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Theft-deterrent system, rear liftgate, rear privacy glass, roof rails.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Class II trailer-hitch receiver, 4-pin connector, full-size spare tire, 235/70R16 tires, 4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case.

XLS Sport adds to XLS:

Safety

Tire-pressure monitor.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Floormats.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Step bars.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

235/70R16 white-letter tires, alloy wheels, 4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case.

XLT adds to XLS:

Powertrain

4.0-liter V6 or 4.6-liter V8 engine.

Safety

Tire-pressure monitor.

Comfort and Convenience Features

Leather-wrapped steering wheel, front bucket seats w/lumbar adjustment, 6-way power driver seat, overhead console, outside-temperature indicator, compass, illuminated visor mirrors, floormats.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Fog lights.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

Alloy wheels, 4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case.

XLT Sport adds to XLT:

Comfort and Convenience Features

Keypad entry, automatic day/night rearview mirror, automatic headlights.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

Step bars.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

245/65R17 all-terrain white-letter tires, machined alloy wheels, 4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case.

Eddie Bauer/Limited adds to XLT:

Comfort and Convenience Features

Leather upholstery, heated front seats, driver-seat memory, 6-way power passenger seat, steering-wheel radio and climate controls, dual-zone automatic climate controls, heated power mirrors, keypad entry, Audiophile AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, automatic headlights.

Appearance and Miscellaneous

2-tone paint (Eddie Bauer), monotone paint (Limited), running boards.

Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires

245/65R17 all-terrain white-letter tires, chrome alloy wheels (Limited), 4WD adds: 4-wheel drive, 2-speed transfer case.

Optional Equipment

Major Packages	Retail Price	Invoice Price
Convenience Group
XLT	$250	$213
Keypad entry, automatic day/night rearview mirror, automatic headlights.

Ultimate Convenience Group
Eddie Bauer, Limited	$350	$298
Power-adjustable pedals w/memory, universal garage-door opener.

Appearance Pkg.
XLT	$695	$591
Unique interior trim, side steps, silver-painted roof rails and wheels.

Class III/IV Trailer Towing Prep Pkg.
Eddie Bauer/Limited, XLT, XLT Sport	$150	$128
Special axle ratio, Class III hitch, 7-wire harness, 7- to 4-pin adapter. NA XLS, XLS Sport.

Safety
Front and 2nd-row curtain side airbags
Eddie Bauer/Limited, XLS, XLS Sport, XLT, XLT Sport	$560	$476


Rear-obstacle-detection system
XLT, XLT Sport, Eddie Bauer, Limited	$255	$217


Comfort and Convenience Features
Rear-seat DVD entertainment system
Eddie Bauer/Limited, XLT, XLT Sport	$1,295	$1,101
Requires power sunroof and curtain side airbags or rear air conditioning and heater. XLT requires Convenience Group. NA XLS, XLS Sport.

Rear air conditioning and heater
XLT, XLT Sport, Eddie Bauer, Limited	$650	$553


Power sunroof
XLT, XLT Sport, Eddie Bauer, Limited	$850	$723


Power-adjustable pedals
XLT, XLT Sport	$120	$102
Eddie Bauer, Limited	$350	$298
Eddie Bauer, Limited include memory, universal garage-door opener.

AM/FM/cassette/CD/MP3 player
XLT, XLT Sport	$150	$128
Eddie Bauer, Limited	$0	$0


AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
XLT, XLT Sport	$510	$433


Leather upholstery
XLT, XLT Sport	$695	$591
Includes 6-way power passenger seat.

Folding 3rd-row seat
Eddie Bauer/Limited, XLT, XLT Sport	$795	$676
Includes 40/20/40 split folding 2nd-row seat. NA XLS, XLS Sport.

Quad captain chairs
Eddie Bauer, Limited	$795	$676
Requires folding 3rd-row seat.

Cargo cover
XLT, XLT Sport, Eddie Bauer, Limited	$80	$68
NA w/folding 3rd-row seat.

Appearance and Miscellaneous
Running boards
XLT	$450	$383


Chrome side steps
Limited	$150	$128


Roof rack cross rails
XLS, XLS Sport, XLT, XLT Sport, Eddie Bauer, Limited	$60	$51


Special paint
Limited	$275	$234


Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
235/70R16 white-letter tires
2WD XLT	$130	$111

2005 Ford Explorer Specs & Safety

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification	Ford Explorer 4-door wagon

Wheelbase, in.	113.7

Overall Length, in.	189.6

Overall Width, in.	72.1

Overall Height, in.	72.1

Curb Weight, lbs.	4301

Cargo Volume, cu. ft.	87.8

Standard Payload, lbs.	--

Fuel Capacity, gals.	22.5

Seating Capacity	7

Front Head Room, in.	39.8

Max. Front Leg Room, in.	42.4

Rear Head Room, in.	38.8

Max. Rear Leg Room, in.	36.8

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Engines

	sohc V6	sohc V8

Size, liters/cu. in.	4.0 /245	4.6 /281

Horsepower @ rpm.	210 @ 5100	239 @ 4000

Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm.	254 @ 3700	282 @ 4000

Availability	Standard	Standard

EPA City / highway mpg

5-speed automatic	14/20	14/18

Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Safety Features

Antilock Brakes

Traction Control

Antiskid System

Front Side Airbags

Curtain Side Airbags

Rear Side Airbags

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test	Ford Explorer 4-door wagon

Front Impact, Driver	4

Front Impact, Passenger	5

Rollover Resistance	3

Side Impact, Driver	5

Side Impact, Rear Passenger	5

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Manufacturer's Warranty

Class	Years/Miles	Comments

Powertrain	None/--	5/100,000 on Focus. 8/100,000 on Escape Hybrid battery pack. In CA, hybrid components are covered by a 10/150,000 warranty.

Bumper-to-bumper	3/36,000	--

Corrosion	5/Unlimited	--

Free roadside assistance	3/36,000	--

Free scheduled maintenance	None/--	--

Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.

Built in: USA

Drivewheels: 4-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive

< 2005 Ford Explorer Photos

Also in the 2005 Ford Explorer Review:

Ford Explorer

Ford Explorer Road Test

Ford Explorer Prices & Equipment

Ford Explorer Specs & Safety

Ford Explorer Photos

Ford Explorer Full Review

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