Used 2019 Ford Explorer Base SUV Review
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2019 Ford Explorer Base SUV.
Most helpful consumer reviews
Drive it! Dream it up!
JH, Biloxi, MS, 03/30/2019
2019 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
When you first see this vehicle, you would think it's to big to drive. The length and width of the SUV. I couldn't believe how smooth and studied the explorer was, the navigation system is wonderful, spacious seats, and luggage room. Also a gas saver I did a fill up twice it only took $36.75 to get from Alabama to Gulfport MS. I really enjoyed riding in the SUV, this will be my next own … vehicle. Thanks Ford
Beware of expensive waterpump issues!
Josh, Wausau, WI, 04/30/2023
2019 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
Overall the vehicle handles nice and has plenty of power. That said, we hit around 80K miles and discovered a coolant leak. Our waterpump was leaking and the cost to replace was over $2000 because it is an internal pump that runs off the timing chain. I did a lot of research on this because I couldn't believe the extensive labor invovled and it's true. Ford has known for years they … had poor design and location of waterpumps and apparently don't care. I lost a lot of confidence with Ford and will likely avoid them going forward. I am not a mechanic and even I know that was a stupid design for an engine. Waterpumps periodically go out and the labor involved shouldn't be so extensive just to access the pump! Stupid design.
Gas
Unhappy , Kingsport, TN, 08/30/2019
2019 Ford Explorer 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
It burns way too much Gas! It burns more gas then a pickup truck! I have a small 2.4L v6 with EcoBoost XLT and it still burns! I hate it wish I would have never got it!
Edmunds Summary Review of the 2019 Ford Explorer Base SUV
What’s new
- Minor changes to the availability of certain features among the various trim levels
- Part of the fifth Explorer generation introduced for 2011
Pros & Cons
- Pro:Quiet and comfortable cabin
- Pro:Strong acceleration from optional turbocharged V6
- Pro:Its infotainment and tech features are easy to use
- Con:Depending on trim level, feels big and ponderous from behind the wheel
- Con:Subpar legroom in the third row
- Con:Doesn't offer automatic emergency braking
Which Explorer does Edmunds recommend?
Without question, the Sport trim is the version of the Explorer we like best. It's one of the few ways to get the twin-turbocharged V6, which delivers power in spades. Plus, its suspension enhancements improve the Explorer's handling reflexes without making its ride quality punishing or noisy.
Full Edmunds Review: 2019 Ford Explorer SUV
Driving
Unlike other models dubbed "Sport," the Explorer Sport is indeed sporty, thanks to its turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, stiffer suspension tuning, quicker steering and our test vehicle's optional summer performance tires. The result is lots of speed and impressive handling and braking.
Comfort
Given the Explorer Sport's handling prowess, we expected ride quality to suffer. We were wrong. Although it loses a small degree of overall plush compared to the regular Explorer, the tauter handling is worth the minor trade-off. The seats are comfy, except in the third row.
Interior
We're glad Ford finally got rid of the touch-sensitive controls on the Explorer's center stack. We highly recommend the optional sliding second-row bucket seats — you lose a seat but gain comfort as well as better third-row access and space. Rear visibility is a problem.
Utility
The cargo area's deep well is useful even if the total cargo volume isn't exceptional. There's a good variety of cabin storage overall.
Edmunds Insurance Estimator
The Edmunds TCO® estimated monthly insurance payment for a 2019 Ford Explorer in Ohio is:
$52.58 per month*Legal