2001 Ford Explorer Premium Sport review from North America

Factory Recalls:

Goodyear Tires replaced to prevent blowout. I went into the dealer twice for replacement after receiving my recall notice, but they didn't have any tires in stock.

Hood latch replaced to prevent hood from flying up.

Nothing has actually gone wrong with this car, but it is only two years old.

Cabin space is tight, and at 6'3", I can barely get behind the wheel.

Visibility through the small front windshield is poor, due to placement of the large rear-view mirror in the center of the windshield, rather than at the top.

Suspension is very stiff, and you suffer violently when hitting bumps around town. However, it feels right at home on a severely rocky and bumpy dirt road. High center of gravity makes it feel like it will tip over around turns, and it is squirrelly in the snow, even in 4WD. I felt more secure in my Honda Accord in the snow than in this.

V6 offers only 15mpg, though the 210hp is nearly that of the V8.

Rear seats are like cardboard, but front seats are fairly comfortable.

Easy to load and unload, with seats that fully fold down, and a rear hatch that opens wide.

Attractive car has received many positive comments from passersby.

Steering is quick and responsive, and feels sporty.

All the Ford dealers and service departments I have dealt with are criminals. The car is a very good value for the $200/mo. we're paying in Lease, but the service is horrible. So bad that we won't consider buying another Ford, even if it is a great deal.