The Best Model Years for an Older Ford Explorer

The Ford Explorer is one of the oldest SUV nameplates on the market, having first hit the road for the 1991 model year. That’s a tremendous legacy that few other vehicles can match, which has resulted in a half-dozen different generations across an uninterrupted run of more than thirty years. When you’re looking for a used Ford Explorer for sale, you can find a lot of different models out there, but we suggest you focus on ones from the last two generations to get the best features possible.

To help you find what you’re looking for, let’s take a look at these two generations and six key model years across them to see what you can find and what you should look for. Just remember that we don’t have time to get into every detail; this is just a helpful overview.

The Fifth-Generation Explorer (2011-2019)

As you’re looking for the right used Explorer, the fifth generation is the furthest back we suggest going; anything older than that and you’re looking at a lot more usage and potential issues. Always remember to look at the mileage of any specific used Explorer you’re interested in to get a sense of how much it’s been used. This is not the current generation, but you can still find contemporary features on these models, depending on which year and trim you find. Let’s check out three years that beautifully illustrate what this generation has to offer…

2011 Ford Explorer

Honestly, this is further back than we’d go when shopping for a used Explorer, but as the start of the fifth generation, it gives us a good foundation for this SUV. Prior to this model, five-person seating was standard inside the Explorer, with an available PowerFold third row; its fifth-gen redesign made three rows standard.

Both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) are available on 2011 models, although we like AWD for this large and powerful SUV. It launched with one engine option: a 290-hp 3.5L V6; Ford introduced a 240-hp 2.0L turbocharged I-4 with the 2012 model, so keep that in mind. Although you’ll find a comprehensive airbag system in these models, advanced safety features are more limited.

2016 Ford Explorer

If you’re shopping on a tight budget and need to stick to older used Explorer models, then one from 2016 is the furthest back we’d generally go. Ford updated and refreshed this SUV for 2016, making this model year a great choice from the fifth generation. The outside received a thorough facelift, including a new front fascia, a redesigned hood and bumpers, and standard LED headlights; you’ll also find updated looks on the rear.

This model got an updated 2.3L I-4 engine that feels great on the road. The available Platinum trim is a particular favorite of ours, giving you impressive performance and gorgeous features inside and out to enjoy as you drive each day.

2018 Ford Explorer

Although not a full redesign, Ford gave the Explorer some nice updates for its 2018 model year as it neared the end of its fifth generation. For starters, you’ll find five new wheel designs on these models that stand out compared to previous years, along with a revamped front grille that looks better than ever. Advanced safety features remain available options rather than standard, but they’ve been bundled together into a Safe & Smart Package that can be easier to find when looking at used models.

Four new exterior colors were available for the 2018 model, including Blue Metallic and Platinum Dune Tricoat; look for a 2019 Explorer to find even more options like Desert Copper.

The Sixth-Generation Explorer (2020-Present)

After a great run, Ford launched the Explorer’s sixth generation in 2020. This is our pick for where to focus as you look at pre-owned models, as it’s the generation with the latest features and options for a used Explorer. You’ll typically find models with lower mileage and less use when you go with a pre-owned Explorer from this generation, which makes it easier to find something that’ll give you many more years of driving. Let’s look at three model years to identify some things to watch for…

2020 Ford Explorer

If you’re looking for a used Explorer with modern features, then this is a great place to start. Fully redesigned, the 2020 Explorer kicked off its sixth generation with new looks, a standard 300-hp 2.3L I-4 engine, and a ten-speed automatic transmission. New rear-wheel drive (RWD) and AWD platforms allow for a more comfortable ride and excellent handling; also, a 318-hp hybrid powertrain became available for the Explorer—something worth looking for as you shop for a used model.

The Explorer’s eponymous base trim was reserved for fleets, so keep that in mind as you look at pre-owned options, while the XLT, Limited, ST, and Platinum are what you’ll typically find. Advanced safety tech like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring became standard on all Explorer models, which is more than enough to make this year a great pick.

2022 Ford Explorer

For a used model that gives you some of the latest features and gorgeous style, without breaking the bank, a 2022 Explorer is a terrific choice. Although not refreshed, you’ll find a number of options on 2022 models that weren’t previously available. For example, the Explorer ST with its powerful 400-hp engine is available with RWD; for the two years prior, it was only offered with AWD. Similarly, this impressive engine was previously exclusive to the ST but became standard for the King Ranch and Platinum trims.

A new ST-Line trim was added for 2022, providing styling similar to the ST but with the standard engine. A Timberline trim that was added in the midst of the 2021 model year is easier to find on 2022 Explorer models, too, with its distinct ActiveX-upholstered seating and unique badging.

2025 Ford Explorer

Finally, Ford gave the Explorer a refresh for the 2025 model year, with exterior and interior updates that are immediately noticeable. For starters, you’ve got a revised front fascia that includes a new grille and headlights, plus new taillights on the back. The trim levels have been streamlined to just four options: Active, ST-Line, ST, and Platinum. Inside, you’ll find upgraded materials and comfort features, along with a newly-standard 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen that replaced the standard eight-inch and available 10.1-inch screens from previous years.

You can also find 2025 Explorer models with Ford’s innovative new BlueCruise hands-free driving tool, which can make your daily commute and long road trips much less demanding. We’ll admit that you might not find as many of these out there yet as you would find 2022 models, but a used 2025 Explorer is an amazing choice for the latest features.

Find a Used Ford Explorer You’ll Love

As you can see, the last two generations of the Explorer present you with an incredible selection of options to explore and choose from. Late-year fifth-gen Explorers are a terrific choice on a tight budget, and you can still find excellent features on one from 2018 or 2019. For something with the latest bells and whistles, you’ll want to go with a sixth-generation model from 2020 or later, although a 2022 or later Explorer gives you revamped looks and more trims to choose from.

No matter what you’re looking for, the friendly people of the Rusty Wallace Family of Dealerships are ready to help you find it. Shopping with helpful people who are committed to great customer service is the best way to explore different options and make sure you get something you’ll love driving for many years to come.