When the first Ford Explorer hit the road in 1991, SUVs seemed like a fad that gained little attention. Today, SUVs are the highest-selling vehicles on the market. You could easily argue that the Ford Explorer is what made many of today’s most popular vehicles possible.

As we admire the new 2022 Ford Explorer, it’s important to consider where this SUV came from to appreciate where it’s going fully.

In The Beginning

When the massive Bronco II came off the production line, Ford wanted something with which to replace it. That’s where the first Ford Explorer came into play. This SUV has humble beginnings. It offers a single-engine (4.0-liter V6) and an available push0button four-wheel-drive system.

There weren’t many SUVs out there, so the Explorer’s fresh style and capability helped it stand out. As time went on and the popularity grew, Ford worked on adding comfort, convenience, entertainment, and safety features, along with an updated ride and plenty of add-on options.

New Generations Welcome

Ford launched a new generation of Explorer SUVs with a fresh design. Instead of being seen as an adventure vehicle, the Ford Explorer earned the right to be an everyday commuter. This generation also brought a more powerful engine (4.9-liter V8). This was also when you started to see the Sport model for those who wanted a more athletic look.

The most significant changes to the Explorer came from its third generation. Ford launched a new platform containing an independent rear suspension. The Explorer was finally its own vehicle and no longer compared to the Bronco that it replaced.

In 2011, the Explorer came with a unibody construction that helped this SUV drive more like a car. This Ford SUV was able to compete with the new slew of compact SUVs on the market. It was more efficient, more powerful, and now more joyous to drive.

The Modern Explorer Is Still On Top

For 2022, the Ford Explorer is an amazing SUV option for families. This SUV is a perfect option, whether you have teenagers in the back or want to quickly install some car seats. It now comes standard with a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine but can also be purchased with a fuel-sipping hybrid powertrain or a twin-turbo V6 engine.

The newest models combine stylish looks with high-performance back with excellent fuel economy and tons of options. It comes with standard equipment like an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment center, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Drivers can now pick up an available 10.1-inch vertically oriented screen that uses voice-activated navigation. If keeping your family completely entertained is important, there is even an available rear-seat entertainment system and a 12-speaker B&O stereo system.

When you appreciate from where the Explorer came, it makes it so much easier to enjoy what it offers today. Ford continues to raise the bar on what this incredible SUV can do. That’s why the Ford Explorer remains on top.