About the Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer has been imported to the UK since the 1990s, with official right-hand-drive sales beginning in 2018. This full-size SUV competes with vehicles like the Land Rover Discovery and Volkswagen Touareg. The current generation features a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine or a 3.0-litre EcoBoost V6, plus a plug-in hybrid variant. Earlier generations typically came with 3.5-litre or 4.0-litre petrol engines. The Explorer offers genuine seven-seat capability, generous boot space, and high towing capacity up to 2,500kg.
What Affects the Price of a Used Ford Explorer
Age and mileage are primary factors, with post-2018 official UK models commanding significantly higher prices than earlier imports. Specification level matters considerably—Limited and ST-Line trims with leather upholstery, panoramic sunroofs and advanced safety systems fetch premiums over base models. The plug-in hybrid variant typically costs £3,000-£5,000 more than equivalent petrol versions. Service history is crucial given the complexity of these vehicles, with main dealer records adding value. Import status affects pricing, as left-hand-drive or personal imports sell for less than official UK-spec right-hand-drive models. Condition of the interior, particularly the third-row seats and dashboard electronics, significantly impacts value.
Buying Tips for a Used Ford Explorer
Verify whether the vehicle is an official UK import or a personal import, as this affects parts availability and resale value. Check the service history thoroughly—these engines require regular maintenance and can be expensive to repair. Inspect the automatic transmission for smooth shifting, as gearbox issues can be costly. Test all electrical systems including the infotainment screen, climate control zones, and power-folding seats. Examine the interior carefully for wear, especially on high-mileage examples where trim quality can deteriorate. Budget for fuel costs, as real-world economy typically ranges from 20-25mpg for petrol models. Ensure tyres are correctly sized—the Explorer requires large rubber that can be expensive to replace. Consider warranty options, particularly for older imports, as repair costs can be substantial for a vehicle of this size and complexity.