1995-2001 Ford Explorer

In March 1990, Ford's Explorer bowed (as a 1991) and literally changed the way Americans thought about family vehicles. For the first time, the durability of a sport/utility was combined with family-style comfort, creating a new segment that nearly every manufacturer competes in today. Over 3.6 million vehicles and a decade later, the Explorer remains the best-selling SUV in history.

Second-generation Explorers (1995-2001) are available in two-door (available in XL and Sport trim) or four-door (XL, XLT, Eddie Bauer, and Limited trim levels) configurations. Base XL, uplevel Sport, and midlevel XLT models receive a 4.0-liter/160-horsepower OHV V-6 mated to a five-speed manual (except 2001). Premium-level Eddie Bauer and Limited models get a 205-horsepower, 4.0-liter SOHC V-6 with five-speed automatic (available on XL and Sport)--by far the most popular powertrain, even though it suffers from front cam-chain guide failures. An optional 5.0-liter, 210-horsepower OHV V-8 with the automatic (also available on XLT) helps bump tow ratings to a 6700-pound max. All are available with two- or four-wheel drive, while the eight-cylinders come with rear- or all-wheel drive.

Interiors are well-executed, with a full house of gauges, strongly supportive seats, and controls in all the right places. Rear seating is generous with good lumbar and thigh support, making it more than obligatory seating for children. With its SLA front suspension, Gen-2 Explorers serve a compliant ride over bumpy terrain and can easily be pressed into off-road duty, though rockcrawling isn't one of its strong suits. Four-wheel ABS discs at all four corners ensure positive braking.

A new model joined the fray in 2001: the Explorer Sport Trac. Based on the 1996 Adrenalin concept, the Sport Trac loses the enclosed cargo area in favor of a composite trucklike bed and tubular stainless-steel bed extender. The only available power comes from the SOHC V-6 and automatic tranny, with choice of two- or four-wheel drive.