1994 Ford Explorer Review Summary & Specs

Summary & Specs

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Ford used the knowledge it gained from the Bronco II to create and build the Explorer. And the result is that the Explorer is everything the Bronco II wasn't. The Explorer is bigger and more refined. Room, comfort, power and features have been built in without major penalties in bulk and weight. The Explorer has been given utilitarian capabilities yet is stylish in the extreme. It works, and works well. The fact that Explorer predated the Jeep Grand Cherokee and still manages to compare very favorably-and perhaps most important, is the sales leader-is a good indication of the wisdom at Ford.

The test drive of our Explorer Limited included a weekend fishing expedition, and the vehicle was enjoyable on- and off-road. It accommodated four of us and our required trappings on a four-hour freeway ride, then over miles of back roads and two-tracks. There was easy access to the seats and cargo area, and ample power to get through mud and soft sand and up some short, steep grades.

The Explorer compares well in price to the Jeep, Grand Cherokee, although the Grand Cherokee we tested had the optional 220-hp V8 (Explorer is only available with the 160-hp V6) and some other extras. Our only real disappointment is the lack of a driver-side air bag. Funny, because it's on the Bronco now.

Specs

Specs as Tested